For a Canada study permit applied for on or after 1 September 2026, outside Quebec, a single student must show CAD 23,448 for living costs, on top of first year tuition and travel. The amount rises with each family member who comes with you. Use the calculator below to get your total.
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How much money do you need for a Canada study visa?
Add three things:
- Living costs from IRCC's table for the number of people coming.
- First year tuition, as shown on your letter of acceptance.
- Travel costs for you and anyone coming with you.
| People coming, including you | Living costs (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 23,448 |
| 2 | 29,192 |
| 3 | 35,888 |
| 4 | 43,572 |
| 5 | 49,419 |
Applications made from 1 January 2025 to 31 August 2026 used CAD 22,895 for one person, so any page still quoting that figure is out of date.
What counts as proof of funds?
IRCC accepts several kinds of evidence, including tuition already paid, a bank loan or scholarship, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate, bank statements, a sponsor letter, and pension or rental income documents. The source of the money matters as much as the balance, so keep the salary slips, business records or property papers that explain how it was built up. Our guides to sponsor letters and the Canada study visa from Pakistan cover the details.
Not sure where you stand?
Send your tuition, family plans and how your funds are held to a counsellor on WhatsApp. Our Lahore team guides you on admission and documents, and personalised Canadian immigration advice is given through our licensed RCIC partner, through our Canada study visa service.
Frequently asked questions
How much bank balance is required for a Canada student visa from Pakistan?
For applications from 1 September 2026, outside Quebec, CAD 23,448 for one person, plus first year tuition and travel. IRCC asks for more if family members come with you.
Is a GIC compulsory for Canada?
No. A Guaranteed Investment Certificate is one accepted form of proof, but it is not required, since the Student Direct Stream ended in November 2024.
Do I need to show money for my spouse?
Yes, if your spouse comes with you. Two people need CAD 29,192 in living costs, plus tuition and travel.
Does the living cost amount include tuition?
No. Tuition and travel are on top of the living cost amount.
Is the amount different for Quebec?
Yes. Quebec sets its own amounts through its CAQ process, so check the Quebec government's figures if you will study there.
Want this done for you?
Talk to a counsellor about your plans on WhatsApp, or visit our Lahore office in Lake City Meadows (Ex State Life), next to DHA Phase 5. We reply within one working day.
Sources
- Proof of financial support, study permit, IRCC
- Get the right documents, study permit, IRCC
- Student Direct Stream, IRCC
Checked against these official sources on 14 October 2026. Rules change often, so confirm the latest position with a counsellor before you apply.