Study Permits for Quebec: Updated Guidance on CAQ, Exemptions, and Study Permit Rules (2025)

2.2K

IRCC has released updated policy and procedures for study permits for students destined to Quebec. The new guidance clarifies the role of the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec [CAQ]), exemptions, financial requirements, and permit duration rules.

If you are planning to study in Quebec, here is everything you need to know.

What is the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)?

The CAQ is a document issued by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI). It confirms that you are authorized by the province to pursue studies in Quebec.

• Without a valid CAQ, you cannot obtain a study permit to study in Quebec (unless exempt).
• The CAQ is required under section 216(3) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).
• A CAQ is usually valid for the length of your study program, up to a maximum of 49 months.

How to Apply for a CAQ

1. Submit an application to MIFI through their online portal.
2. Provide all required documents, including proof of admission and proof of funds.
3. If approved, you will receive an attestation of issuance electronically.
4. Submit this attestation with your study permit application to IRCC.
5. IRCC officers verify CAQ details in the Global Case Management System (GCMS).

Tip: Apply for the CAQ well before submitting your study permit application, since IRCC cannot finalize your permit without it.

CAQ vs Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)

Students destined for Quebec may also encounter the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirement.

• The CAQ is specific to Quebec and confirms authorization to study.
• The PAL is a federal measure used across provinces to control study permit volumes.

If you are applying to Quebec, you may need both documents depending on your situation. Always confirm with your school and MIFI.

Who is Exempt from the CAQ Requirement?

Not all students need a CAQ. The following groups are exempt under Quebec’s Immigration Regulation (section 20):

• Students in federal assistance programs for developing countries.
• Students in programs six months or less.
• Preschool and primary/secondary children, if a parent holds a valid work or study permit.
• Asylum seekers, recognized refugees, or protected persons, and their children.
• Spouses of Canadian sponsors waiting for permanent residence.
• Temporary residence permit holders on a pathway to permanent residence.
• Workers with permits issued before June 7, 2023 (including those awaiting extensions).

Important: If a parent only has a visitor record (not authorized to work or study), their child still needs a CAQ and a study permit.

Rules for Minors

• In Quebec, anyone under 18 years old is considered a minor.
• Minor students usually require both a CAQ and a study permit, unless exempt.
• Children of foreign nationals approved for a work or study permit may not need a letter of acceptance or PAL, but they might still need a CAQ.

Renewing a CAQ

Students must apply for a new CAQ if:

• Their studies extend beyond the validity of the current CAQ.
• They change their level of study (e.g., college to university).
• They change institutions, except if:
  • Their CAQ was issued before December 6, 2025,
  • And they are changing institutions at the same level of study.

Note: Primary and secondary students may also need to renew their CAQ unless linked to a specific school.

Proof of Financial Resources

Students going to Quebec must show proof of funds to cover:

• Tuition fees.
• Living expenses.
• Travel costs (including return ticket).
• Medical and hospitalization insurance.
• Settlement costs for the first year.

If a parent or third party is covering expenses, they must provide a sworn statement confirming financial support.

Recommended Length of Study Permits

• The study permit duration should match the CAQ validity, up to 49 months.
• It may also depend on passport validity.
• If the permit is issued for a shorter time, officers must explain the reason in the remarks.

FAQs on Study in Quebec

1. Do I need both a CAQ and a PAL?
Yes, in many cases. The CAQ confirms Quebec’s authorization. The PAL is a federal requirement. Check both MIFI and IRCC rules.

2. How long does it take to get a CAQ?
Processing times vary, but it can take several weeks. Apply early before your IRCC study permit application.

3. Can I study short-term without a CAQ?
Yes, if your program is six months or less, you may not need a CAQ.

4. What happens if I switch schools?
You may need a new CAQ, unless your current CAQ is still valid and was issued before December 6, 2025, for the same study level.

Key Takeaways

• The CAQ is mandatory for almost all students in Quebec.
• Exemptions exist for short-term studies, minor children with certain parents, and protected persons.
• Students must prove financial capacity for tuition, living, and other expenses.
• Study permits should match CAQ validity, up to 49 months.

About Author