For current/returning international students. Can only be viewed on a desktop computer.
The Government of Canada recently announced a cap on the number of study visas to be issued as well as the requirement for a provincial attestation letter (PAL) when applying for a new study permit.
As a University of Waterloo international student, you must complete a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) request form when applying for a new study permit to return to Canada. Note: PAL is issued for the PAL calendar year (e.g., January 22, 2025, to December 31, 2025) and it does not include the term when your studies begin or resume.
Personal information that will be reflected on your PAL:
- Your Home address in Quest must be up to date.
- Your Legal/Primary name in Quest must match the name on your passport.
- Your Date of Birth in Quest must match the date of birth on your passport.
Update your personal information in Quest, as required.
After PAL approval by one of the University of Waterloo’s licensed immigration consultants and the Ontario government, a PAL will be sent to the University of Waterloo and it will be posted in Quest for the student to download. This process can take 3-5 business days.
- Sign in to Quest.
- Select the Personal Information tile.
- Select the PAL Download link on the left.
- The PAL Download page will display. Read the information and verify the status in step 5.
- The status of the PAL request will be one of the following. Once the letter is available, select View Letter to access the letter.
- Request Received: Questionnaire completed and submitted.
- Pending: Criteria is being assessed by a University of Waterloo immigration consultant. Note: Additional information may be required.
- Deny: A University of Waterloo immigration consultant has determined that a PAL is not required.
- Approved: A University of Waterloo immigration consultant has determined that a PAL is required.
- Request Sent: Criteria has been sent to the Ontario Government by a University of Waterloo immigration consultant.
- View Letter: PAL has been granted by the Ontario Government and is available to save/download from Quest. Note: To save or download your PAL, it is recommended that your web browser allows pop-ups from Quest.