Work & Study
Canada continues to cap new study permits in 2026, and most applicants need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). Since January 1, 2026, master's and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from the PAL and are not counted toward the cap.
A study permit is also the start of a longer plan — work permits, family permits and eventually permanent residence — so it pays to plan it properly.
No — starting January 1, 2026, students in degree-granting master's or doctoral programs at a public designated learning institution do not need a PAL/TAL.
No. IRCC says you can't apply with a PAL/TAL issued during a previous cap year; 2026 letters are valid until December 31, 2026 unless they expire earlier.
Canada still caps study permits in 2026, but master's and PhD students at public institutions are now exempt from the PAL. Who needs a PAL/TAL, and what it means for spouses.
Read · 6 minThe difference between employer-specific (LMIA) and open work permits, who qualifies for each, and what Canadian employers need to know about the LMIA process.
Read · 6 minThis page is general information, not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts, and no outcome can be guaranteed.
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