Quebec Provincial Attestation Letter: What Changed in 2024

📌 Historical record - news from January 2024. The requirement announced here has been consolidated: the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is mandatory. In Quebec, however, it is no longer a separate document, it has been integrated into the CAQ process, and the CAQ digital approval now serves as provincial attestation with the IRCC. For the current situation, read: New rules for international students in Canada: Summary

What is a CAQ?

The CAQ is a mandatory immigration document for all study permit applicants who plan to attend a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Quebec. It serves as an authorization indicating that the applicant has met Quebec’s provincial standards to study in the province.

International students wishing to study in Quebec must obtain a CAQ and letter of attestation before applying for a study permit issued by the IRCC.

Read also: “How to request the Certificate of Acceptance of Quebec (CAQ)“

What is a letter of attestation?

On January 22, IRCC announced the implementation of a cap on the number of study permits to be approved in 2024. This cap will be allocated by province and territory, weighted according to their respective populations. Provinces and territories will be responsible for establishing a system for issuing letters of attestation to their international students.

Read also: “New rules for international students in Canada: Summary”

While letters of attestation are required for all study permit applications submitted after January 22, provinces and territories have until March 31, 2024 to implement a system of issuing letters of attestation to applicants, as announced by IRCC.

These new measures aim to combat neglect in the international student landscape and stabilize the number of temporary residents impacting housing, healthcare and other services in Canada.

Studying in Quebec

Quebec has the third largest international student population in Canada, after Ontario and British Columbia. Montreal has the highest international student population per capita of any Canadian city. The province is also known for its excellent educational institutions, including some of the best universities and colleges in the country.

Read also: “8 golden tips for those who are going to live in Quebec”

Quebec offers lower cost of living expenses compared to other Canadian provinces, a rich history and Francophone culture, and more affordable tuition.

Read also: “Living in Montreal: 12 Points that you should consider before living in this city”

International students who choose Quebec can take advantage of province-specific immigration programs such as the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) and the Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) after acquiring the necessary work experience in the province.

If they wish to immigrate outside of Quebec, these students can also explore federal programs, such as the pathways managed by Express Entry, increasing their immigration options as Quebec graduates.

Read also: Quebec Experience Program: a path to permanent residence

Well, that’s what I had to say today. I hope this information helped once again. Want more tips like these? Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates about life in Quebec and your first steps as a newcomer.

See you in the next post! 😉