IRCC raises study-permit living-expense minimums from September 1

The new amounts apply from September 1

IRCC updated its proof-of-financial-support page on August 28. For study-permit applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, the minimum first-year living-expense amount for one applicant outside Quebec rises from $22,895 to $23,448.

The submission date controls which table applies. Applications submitted through August 31, 2026 use the previous amounts; applications filed on or after September 1 use the new table.

Living-expense minimums outside Quebec

• 1 family member, including the applicant: $23,448
• 2 family members: $29,192
• 3 family members: $35,888
• 4 family members: $43,572
• 5 family members: $49,419
• 6 family members: $55,736
• 7 family members: $62,054
• Each additional family member after 7: $6,318

Tuition and travel costs are separate

These figures cover living expenses for the first year only. Applicants must also prove they can pay first-year tuition and transportation to and from Canada for themselves and accompanying family members, without relying on work in Canada.

For a program longer than one year, IRCC also requires an explanation and evidence showing how the applicant plans to pay for the full duration of studies. Meeting the table amount alone does not establish the source, availability or sufficiency of the funds.

Quebec uses its own financial requirements

The federal table does not apply to applicants studying in Quebec. Those applicants must meet the financial-capacity requirements used for the Quebec Acceptance Certificate and should confirm the current provincial amounts directly with Quebec.

Applicants should preserve evidence of the date their online application was submitted and use the table in force on that date. Bank records and support documents should also explain where the money came from and show that it is genuinely available.