Effective from March 4, 2024, British Columbia’s Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) system is in operation, requiring international students to submit a PAL with their study permit applications to verify acceptance by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) within allocated limits. The province has a total allocation of 83,000 undergraduate study permit applications from IRCC, anticipating approximately 50,000 approvals for 2024, a reduction compared to the previous year. Notably, 53% of PALs are allocated to public post-secondary institutions, while 47% go to private institutions, aiming to counter unsustainable growth.
This system is introduced following IRCC’s cap on study permits for 2024. Other provinces are expected to adopt similar systems by March 31. IRCC’s cap, introduced on January 22, 2023, limits new study permits to 360,000 in 2024, a 35% reduction from 2023 levels, excluding renewals and master’s or doctoral degrees.
The cap aligns with population-based provincial allocations. Additionally, changes to Post Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs) eligibility and upcoming alterations to Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) are announced. Notably, spouses or partners of international students pursuing undergraduate degrees will no longer be eligible for SOWPs, although this change is pending implementation.
The cap addresses concerns about the sustainability of Canada’s international student program, targeting institutions with insufficient support and oversight. B.C. has introduced measures to combat unsustainable growth in its international student program, including pausing approvals for new post-secondary institutions enrolling international students until February 2026 and implementing higher standards for private degree programs.
Source: CIC News