Returning Students

If you are a current U of A student with an issued study permit and will be temporarily outside Canada, this travel information is for you. This applies to students who have completed a semester or more of studies in Canada and wish to travel home for a visit, during summer break, or for personal reasons.

Do not book your flight until you make sure ALL your documents will be valid upon your return to Canada.

Documents include:

  • Valid Study Permit (mandatory)
  • Valid Visa/eTA as applicable (mandatory)
  • Verification of Enrolment (request through Bear Tracks)
  • Unofficial Transcript (print from Bear Tracks).
  • Valid IRCC medical exam if you will be living in a designated country for over six months in the past 12 months prior to returning to Canada.

If your study permit will expire during your travel, connect with an International Student Specialist as soon as possible!

Click here to connect


I am a continuing undergraduate UofA student, but I am currently outside Canada and my study permit has expired. In order to return back to Canada to continue my studies, I must apply for a study permit outside Canada. Please clarify if I need a PAL.

A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is required when applying for a new study permit outside Canada even if you are a continuing undergraduate UofA student. To request a PAL, you must contact an International Student Specialist by explaining your situation along with a copy of your most recent study permit. 

Connect via the Student Service portal

Once we receive your request, an International Student Specialist will follow up with you.