Canada study permit changes 2026: Higher funds, tighter scrutiny and new rules for students

From September 1, 2026, Canadian authorities will increase the financial requirement for study permit applications. Applicants must demonstrate they have C$23,448 for living expenses, excluding tuition and transportation, for single students applying outside Quebec. This amount is higher than the previous requirement of C$22,895, set on September 1, 2025.

The increase applies regardless of family size, although larger families must demonstrate even greater financial capacity. This change is part of Canada's effort to reduce temporary resident numbers, as outlined in the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, which targets 155,000 new student arrivals in 2026. Alongside this financial tightening, Canada is also implementing stricter verification of admission documents and changing work authorization rules.

Starting April 1, 2026, eligible post-secondary international students can now work during their studies without needing a separate co-op work permit, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. However, the overall picture for prospective students remains mixed, as the system becomes more controlled while still offering a pathway to study and work in Canada.