How does national classification work, and what is a provisional classification?

Under Nordiq Canada's Para Nordic Classification Policy (2024):

• Nordiq Canada's classifiers are FIS certified medical or technical classifiers. They classify athletes with physical impairments in the LW classes (LW2-9 standing, LW10-12 sitting). Athletes with a visual impairment (B1-B3) are classified separately, through an IPC VI Classification Panel or on the recommendation of an IPC certified VI classifier, based on a completed IPC VI medical diagnostics form.
• To get a confirmed National Classification sport class and competition factor, you must be evaluated at an official Nordiq Canada National Classification Panel. A panel includes at least one FIS certified medical classifier and at least one FIS certified technical classifier. Nordiq Canada's goal is one National Classification Panel per year, normally at a major event such as a Para nordic national development camp or national championships.
• If you cannot attend a panel, you may be given a provisional classification based on observation by one national classifier and/or review of medical records. You can compete in nationally sanctioned events with it, but your results may be adjusted if your classification is later confirmed to be different. You must attend a panel at the earliest opportunity, and you cannot stay provisional indefinitely or you may become ineligible to compete.
• If you are classified at an approved FIS Classification Panel, Nordiq Canada accepts that classification and you do not need a national classification. You pay the costs of attending a FIS panel.