Canada Raises Financial Proof Requirement for International Students Starting September 2025
Significant Increase in Living Expense Threshold for Study Permit Applicants
Canada’s immigration department has announced a notable change that affects all international students planning to study in Canada from September 1, 2025. According to the latest update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), international students will need to demonstrate higher financial support to be eligible for a study permit.
New Minimum Fund Requirement: What You Need to Know
Currently, the minimum amount of financial support required for a single applicant is $20,635. Starting September 1, 2025, that number will increase to $22,895, representing a $2,260 rise.
This change applies across all Canadian provinces and territories except Quebec, which has its own set of financial requirements.
This amount is in addition to:
- First-year tuition fees
- Travel expenses to and within Canada
These changes are part of Canada’s effort to align immigration requirements with rising cost-of-living standards nationwide.
Breakdown of Required Financial Support for 2025
| Family Size (Including Applicant) | Required Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,895 |
| 2 People | $28,502 |
| 3 People | $35,040 |
| 4 People | $42,543 |
| 5 People | $48,252 |
| 6 People | $54,420 |
| 7 People | $60,589 |
| Each Additional Person | +$6,170 |
These amounts are updated annually to reflect inflation and changing economic conditions.
Proof of Funds: What IRCC Accepts
To satisfy the updated requirements, applicants must submit valid financial documentation showing access to these funds. Accepted documents include:
- A Canadian bank account in the student’s name (if funds have already been transferred)
- A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a Canadian financial institution
- Loan documents from a recognized bank
- Bank statements (last 4 months)
- Convertible bank drafts
- Financial support letters (from a sponsor or institution)
- Proof of scholarships or funding from Canadian institutions
Who Is Affected and When Does This Start?
- Effective Date: September 1, 2025
- Applies To: All new study permit applications submitted on or after that date
- Exemptions: Students applying in Quebec will follow the province-specific rules
Students applying before this date will remain subject to the 2024 financial threshold.
Final Thoughts
This increase reflects Canada’s continued commitment to ensuring that international students can live and study comfortably during their academic journey. Students and sponsors are encouraged to plan ahead and update their financial preparation strategies accordingly.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
