QUEBEC ANNOUNCES MAJOR INCREASE TO PROOF OF FUNDS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS STARTING 2026
Quebec has introduced one of its most significant financial policy changes for international students in years. Beginning January 1, 2026, the province will implement a substantial rise in proof-of-funds requirements for all study permit applicants—both new students and current students applying for extensions.
This change will particularly impact applicants who are minors and single students, as their required financial capacity will more than triple compared to the current threshold.
The province’s decision marks a sharp shift from previous years and places Quebec’s financial requirements well above those applied in the rest of Canada. The announcement is expected to influence prospective students’ budgeting, planning, and institution selection for the coming academic cycles.
A Significant Jump in Financial Thresholds for 2026
The proof of funds requirement is intended to confirm that a student can afford tuition, housing, food, transportation, and other basic expenses while studying in Quebec.
Under the new policy:
- Students under 18 will need to show financial capacity rising from $7,756 to $24,617.
- Adult students (18+) must demonstrate a minimum of $24,617, compared to the current requirement of $15,508.
- For families applying together, the required amounts rise sharply depending on the number of dependents.
These funds are separate from tuition and travel costs, which must be covered in addition to the new financial requirements.
Updated Proof of Funds Thresholds (Effective January 1, 2026)
| Family Composition | Current Requirement (Until Dec 31, 2025) | Requirement as of Jan 1, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| One person under 18 | $7,756 | $24,617 |
| One person 18+ | $15,508 | $24,617 |
| Two adults | $22,745 | $34,814 |
| Two adults + one minor | $25,479 | $42,638 |
| Two adults + two minors | $27,499 | $49,234 |
This adjustment means that Quebec will now have the highest proof-of-funds requirement in Canada for international students.
Why Quebec’s Requirements Are Different
Quebec’s immigration system operates under a unique agreement with the federal government, giving the province the authority to set its own financial and eligibility conditions for temporary residents.
As a result:
- Quebec determines its own minimum living expense requirements.
- IRCC applies federal standards, but Quebec’s numbers override them for students applying to study in the province.
With the new increase, Quebec’s minimum required funds for students will surpass all other provinces and territories.
Students Must Show Proof of Funds Multiple Times
Applicants planning to study in Quebec must demonstrate financial capacity at several stages—both provincially and federally.
Proof of Funds Is Needed:
- When applying for the first CAQ (Quebec Acceptance Certificate)
- When applying for the first study permit with IRCC
- When renewing a CAQ
- When extending a study permit
The same funds can be used for both the CAQ and the federal study permit application. Applicants do not need to show additional funds to IRCC; they simply need to confirm they still possess the required amount when applying federally.
What Counts as Acceptable Proof of Funds?
Quebec has outlined documentation that applicants may submit to demonstrate financial capacity. The documents must clearly show that the student (or sponsor) can meet living costs, cover tuition, and manage transportation expenses.
Examples of Accepted Proof of Funds:
- Evidence of recent money transfers into a Canadian or Quebec account
- Official authorization to transfer money from countries with currency restrictions
- Scholarship or bursary confirmation with monthly and yearly amounts stated
- Recent pay slips showing stable employment income
- A bank letter specifying available balance and account ownership
- Recent income tax assessments showing annual income
- Bank statements for the last three months
- Updated bank book with proof of ownership
Quebec may request additional documents depending on the applicant’s financial situation.
Impact on Prospective and Current Students
The 2026 changes may influence decisions for many international students as affordability becomes a more significant factor. Students planning to bring spouses or children will feel a higher burden, as financial requirements increase proportionally with family size.
Educational institutions in Quebec may also see changes in application patterns as students weigh tuition affordability, cost of living, and total funds required when choosing between provinces.
However, the new policy aims to ensure that students arriving in Quebec have the financial means to support themselves sustainably during their studies.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
