Canada exempts master's and doctoral students from study permit caps starting January 1, 2026, eliminating Provincial Attestation Letter requirements, while offering expedited two-week processing for doctoral applicants and their families to attract global academic talent.On November 7, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that, starting January 1, 2026, master's and doctoral students applying to Canadian public institutions will be exempt from student visa quota restrictions and will no longer need to submit a Provincial or Territorial Confirmation Letter (PAL/TAL). Previously, this confirmation letter required students to pay a deposit to their target institution to prove their intention to enroll. The new policy will significantly reduce application costs and simplify the process. IRCC also announced that doctoral students and their dependents can now enjoy an expedited processing channel, receiving study permits, work permits, and other identity documents in as little as two weeks. Applicants must meet three conditions: be enrolled in a doctoral degree program, submit their application from outside Canada, and submit it online. Eligible spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children who submit their applications at the same time as the principal applicant can also enjoy expedited processing. This policy is considered a key measure for Canada to attract top global academic talent and will significantly enhance its attractiveness to research students. The new policy will allow more students to pursue higher education in Canada; however, applicants will still need to submit required documents such as an offer of admission, proof of identity, passport, recent photograph, proof of funds, and letters of recommendation including a statement of motivation. Depending on individual circumstances, you may also need to provide a medical examination report, a certificate of no criminal record, or a guardianship certificate.