Canada Increases Fund Requirement for Student Visas

Canada has officially increased the minimum financial requirement for international students applying for study permits, with the new rules taking effect from September 1, 2025.

Under the revised norms, a single applicant must now show proof of at least CAD 22,895 for living expenses, up from the earlier CAD 20,635. The requirement rises further depending on family size—for example, CAD 28,502 for two members and CAD 35,040 for a family of three. For each additional family member, an extra CAD 6,170 must be demonstrated.

The adjustment, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is aimed at keeping financial thresholds in line with inflation and rising living costs. Officials stressed that adequate proof of funds is essential to ensure students can support themselves during their stay.

Acceptable documents include tuition and housing receipts, bank statements, Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), education loan papers, or letters confirming scholarships and financial support. Applicants targeting Québec must also meet separate provincial requirements.

The revision comes amid growing scrutiny of international student inflows. Earlier this year, Canada reported a 31% decline in study permits issued to Indian students, reflecting the combined effect of financial and policy changes.