Canada Confirms 2026 Study Permit Cap and Updated PAL Requirements

IRCC has confirmed the 2026 international student intake cap and clarified Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirements across all provinces.

What Changed?

Canada has retained the study permit cap for 2026 and confirmed PAL/TAL is required for almost all new study permit applications, including most master's applicants in some provinces. Provinces are issuing PALs through their designated institutions.

Who Is Affected?

All international students applying for a new Canadian study permit in 2026, especially undergraduate and college applicants. Students extending an existing permit at the same DLI and level are generally exempt.

Recommended Action

Confirm your DLI is on the approved list, request your PAL early through the institution, prepare updated proof of funds, and apply as soon as your Letter of Acceptance and PAL are issued. Speak to our team before submitting.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the international student intake cap for 2026, maintaining tighter controls introduced in 2024 and 2025.

All new study permit applications outside select exemptions must now include a valid Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL). Provinces have published allocations to designated learning institutions (DLIs).

Financial proof requirements remain elevated, and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility continues to be tied to program field of study for college graduates.

Official Source

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

View Official Government Announcement

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