Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently updated its instructions for processing study permit applications, particularly for international students enrolled in joint programs. The new guidelines, released on February 6, 2026, bring positive changes for students navigating multiple designated learning institutions (DLIs) across provinces or territories.

According to the latest instructions, students in joint programs now only require a single provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), even if their program spans multiple DLIs or regions.

Previously, students in joint programs involving multiple postsecondary DLIs or requiring study in different provinces/territories had to obtain separate PAL/TALs from each institution and region.

The updated instructions also include the exemption for master’s and doctoral students studying at publicly-funded DLIs, as previously announced.

The guidelines maintain certain rules, such as the requirement for a new PAL/TAL when applying for restoration of status and the need for visiting students to obtain a PAL/TAL.

Renewing study permits for program changes within the same DLI and level of study no longer necessitates a PAL/TAL, as clarified in the new instructions.

Furthermore, the instructions specify that master’s and doctoral programs are considered equivalent levels of study by IRCC.

In Quebec, specific vocational programs, such as Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS) and Attestation of Vocational Specialization (AVS), qualify for the PAL/TAL exemption as secondary-level programs.

Students at the College of General and Professional Teaching (CEGEP) in Quebec are still required to obtain PALs/TALs.

These updated guidelines apply to study permit applications received in 2026, with applications before January 1, 2026, processed under previous instructions.

Since January 22, 2024, study permit applications for postsecondary programs have mandated a PAL/TAL, unless exempted.

Applications lacking the necessary PAL/TAL will be rejected, with fees refunded, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the new regulations.

Quebec students can fulfill the PAL/TAL requirement with an attestation of issuance of a certificate.