OTTAWA — Canada has introduced a higher financial requirement for international students applying for study permits, with the new rules taking effect September 1, 2026.

Under the updated Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada requirements, a single student applying outside Quebec must now demonstrate C$23,448 in available funds for living expenses for the first year. The amount does not include tuition or transportation costs.

The previous requirement for applications submitted through August 31 was C$22,895, meaning the minimum has increased by C$553 for a single applicant.

The required amount rises according to family size. For example, applicants with one accompanying family member must show C$29,192, while a family of three must demonstrate C$35,888 for living expenses.

Canada says applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial resources to cover their first year in the country without relying on employment in Canada. Applicants to programs lasting more than one year must also explain how they intend to finance the remainder of their studies.

The annual adjustment comes as Canada continues tightening the international student program and strengthening financial and compliance requirements.

The change is particularly significant for students preparing applications for the 2026–27 academic year, who will need to account for the higher financial threshold when preparing their study-permit documentation.