Starting 1st September 2025, international students applying for study permits to institutions outside Quebec will need to meet new, higher financial support thresholds. This change forms part of Canada’s efforts to ensure that incoming students are financially prepared to live and study in the country without undue hardship.

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The Canadian government is increasing the minimum amount of funds that applicants must show to cover living expenses while studying in Canada. For a single applicant, this means a rise from the current CAD 20,635 to CAD 22,895, a roughly 10–11% increase. The required funds go up with each additional family member the applicant includes in their application.

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These changes apply only to applications submitted on or after 1st September 2025, and do not include Quebec-bound students, who are assessed under a separate provincial standard.

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Why the change?

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This adjustment reflects Canada's intention to keep the cost-of-living requirement aligned with inflation and actual living costs. Authorities are responding to growing concerns that many international students arrive in Canada without enough funds to sustain themselves, placing strain on housing and social support systems. By raising the financial bar, the government hopes to ensure that students have a more secure start to their time in Canada.

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What Do Applicants Need to Show?

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Applicants must demonstrate they have access to the required amount of living expenses at the time of application. This figure is in addition to tuition fees and travel costs.

Acceptable proof of financial support includes:

• Recent bank statements
• Documents showing an approved student loan
• Letters confirming scholarships or financial aid
• Proof of funding from a parent, guardian, or other sponsor
  
  

Applicants are encouraged to prepare these materials carefully. Incomplete or inconsistent financial documentation is a common reason for study permit refusals.

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Contact and Disclaimer

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Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

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For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

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The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

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