IRCC Updates Study Permit Process for Quebec Students – Clearer CAQ and PAL Rules for 2025

In a significant step toward improving transparency and coordination, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released new program delivery updates for international students planning to study in Quebec. The 2025 updates refine the requirements surrounding the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) — two critical documents for students studying in Quebec.

These changes aim to streamline communication between federal and provincial authorities, reduce confusion among applicants, and strengthen compliance under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR). For students, these updates mean fewer administrative delays, more clarity on exemptions, and better alignment between IRCC and Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI).

Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ): The Foundation of Study Authorization

The Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) remains the core document required by most international students who wish to study in Quebec. It confirms that the province has approved the student’s educational plans before the federal government issues a study permit.

Key Points About the 2025 CAQ Process

• The CAQ is issued electronically by MIFI upon approval.
• Its maximum validity is 49 months, aligning with the program duration.
• IRCC officers must now record the CAQ number and expiry date in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) for improved traceability.
• MIFI continues to transmit CAQ verification lists to IRCC to ensure document authenticity.

This renewed collaboration between IRCC and MIFI ensures that every student entering Quebec meets both federal and provincial eligibility standards.

Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL): How It Differs from the CAQ

One of the biggest sources of confusion among international students has been the difference between the CAQ and the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).

The 2025 updates clearly define their separate functions:

In short:

• The CAQ authorizes study in Quebec.
• The PAL confirms that the province approves your spot under Canada’s national study permit quota.

Students applying to Quebec institutions must often hold both documents unless explicitly exempt.

Exemptions from the CAQ Requirement

Not all Quebec-bound students need a CAQ. Section 20 of the Québec Immigration Regulation outlines several exemptions, including:

• Students participating in federal assistance programs for developing countries.
• Applicants in short-term programs (≤ six months).
• Minors attending school with a parent holding a valid work or study permit.
• Refugees, asylum seekers, or protected persons and their dependents.
• Sponsored spouses or partners awaiting permanent residence.
• Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) holders progressing toward permanent status.
• Work permit holders or renewal applicants whose files were submitted to IRCC before June 7, 2023.

However, minors accompanying visitors who do not hold work or study authorization must still obtain both a CAQ and a study permit.

CAQ Renewal Rules for 2025

IRCC has also simplified the CAQ renewal process for ongoing students. Renewal is required if:

• The program duration exceeds the CAQ’s validity.
• The student changes their level of study (e.g., college to university).
• The student switches institutions unless:
  • The CAQ was issued before December 6, 2024, and remains valid.
• • The change occurs at the same study level.

Renewal is also necessary when minor students progress to a higher education level unless they already possess a general CAQ.

Updated Financial Requirements for Quebec Students

A major part of the 2025 IRCC update involves revised proof of funds requirements.

From September 1, 2025, applicants must demonstrate higher available funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Applicants must also specify how they intend to finance their education. If a third party (such as a parent or sponsor) covers expenses, a sworn declaration of financial support must be included.

Study Permit Validity and Processing

IRCC recommends aligning the study permit validity with the CAQ duration up to 49 months, depending on passport validity. If a shorter study permit is issued, visa officers are required to justify the reason in the case file remarks. This alignment minimizes confusion and prevents mid-program reapplications that could disrupt studies.

Why These IRCC Updates Matter

The 2025 IRCC Quebec study permit updates bring much-needed clarity to an often complex process. In the past, mismatched federal and provincial requirements led to confusion, delays, and even refusals.

With these new measures, students benefit from:

• Clearer documentation and verification systems.
• Simplified renewal processes.
• Defined exemption pathways.
• Transparent financial and institutional rules.

For both international students and immigration consultants, these changes ensure smoother processing and compliance with both federal IRPR standards and Quebec’s provincial laws.

What Quebec-Bound Students Should Know

The IRCC updates for Quebec study permit applicants in 2025 represent a crucial improvement in Canada’s international education system. By clearly distinguishing the CAQ and PAL, streamlining verification systems, and raising financial thresholds, IRCC ensures that international students arrive in Quebec fully prepared academically, financially, and legally. If you’re planning to study in Quebec in 2025, make sure your documents CAQ, PAL, and study permit are all in order.