A valid Study Permit is required for anyone studying in Canada for longer than six months. Since most BU programs are three years or more, this becomes a mandatory requirement for most international students.

Your permit should stay valid through the entire length of your program, plus an additional 90 days. If your study permit is due to expire before you complete your program, you will need to apply for an extension to be able to continue studying in Canada. It’s important to keep your permit valid at all times while studying in Canada.

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

The Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a document previously required for most international students applying for a study permit. Issued by the Government of Manitoba, the PAL confirms that your admission aligns with provincial study permit caps.

According to Canada’s federal immigration regulations, most international students were required to include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) with their study permit application (some exceptions applied). However, as of January 1, 2026, students enrolling in master’s or doctoral programs will no longer need a provincial or territorial attestation letter.

When will I receive my PAL?

Only students who have confirmed their attendance by paying the international student tuition deposit are eligible to receive a PAL. PALs are typically issued within 2-3 business days of the offer of admission. You will receive an email notification at the email address you provided during your admission application with instructions on how to download your PAL. For more information on obtaining the PAL, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@BrandonU.CA.

Study Permit (Outside Canada)

Study permits are issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the government department that handles immigration. You will be issued the permit upon entry to Canada by presenting Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) with your Letter of Introduction sent from a visa office.

Please visit the IRCC website – Study Permit to find details on how to obtain a study permit.

Study Permit & Extension (In Canada)

If you are already in Canada, monitor your study permit expiry date and apply for an extension if needed. To avoid disruptions to your studies, apply to extend your study permit 5 to 6 months before it expires. Please be aware that if you do not comply with study permit conditions, an IRCC or CBSA officer may require you to leave Canada.

Please visit the IRCC website – Extend your study permit or restore your status to find details on how to extend a study permit.