Quebec proof of funds international students requirements increased significantly in 2026. This guide explains the new living cost amounts, acceptable bank documents, and CAQ financial rules to help you prepare your student visa application.
Quebec Living Cost Requirements for 2026-27
Updated living cost minimums for Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and federal study permit applications took effect on January 1, 2026. These figures cover living expenses only and do not include tuition or travel costs.
Why Quebec is Updating Financial Requirements
Quebec updated its financial capacity policy to reflect inflation and the true cost of living across the province. This change aligns with broader national trends in Canada, where federal proof of funds requirements have also increased in other provinces. Demonstrating sufficient financial capacity ensures that international students can cover daily living expenses without experiencing financial hardship during their studies.
Note: Tuition fees and travel costs are completely separate from these living expense minimums and must be added on top of these figures when calculating your total proof of funds.
Find Programs and Universities in Quebec
Discover academic programs in Quebec that match your budget and start building your study plan.
When the Rules Apply and Accepted Documents
The updated proof of funds thresholds apply to all new Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) applications, federal study permit applications, and study permit renewal requests. Applicants must submit clear, official documentation proving they hold sufficient liquid funds.
The six accepted financial document types for Quebec student applications include:
- Canadian or Quebec bank statements: Account statements displaying available funds and recent transaction history.
- Proof of international fund transfers: Official receipts or confirmations showing money transferred to a Canadian financial institution.
- Official scholarship or bursary letters: Documentation confirming awarded institutional funding, bursaries, or research stipends.
- Recent pay slips: Income statements from current employment for the student or financial sponsor.
- Tax returns: Official government tax filings or notices of assessment verifying annual income.
- Official bank balance letters: Signed letters from recognized financial institutions confirming account balances.
Applicants from countries with foreign currency transfer controls must provide additional proof demonstrating that local monetary authorities allow transferring the required funds to Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
- No, the minimum living expense figures cover basic living costs only.
- You must demonstrate separate funds to cover full first-year tuition fees and round-trip travel costs in addition to the living expense minimum.
- Yes, the updated financial capacity rules apply to initial CAQ applications, federal study permit applications, and study permit extension or renewal requests.
- Current students in Quebec submitting extension applications must meet the updated financial thresholds.
- You can use Canadian or foreign bank statements, proof of wire transfers, scholarship letters, pay slips, tax returns, or official bank balance letters.
- All financial documents must clearly identify the account holder and establish that funds are liquid and accessible.
- If your home country limits international currency exchange or fund transfers, you must provide official documentation from a bank or government authority.
- This documentation must verify that you are permitted to export the required funds to Canada for educational purposes.
Ready to Plan Your Studies in Quebec?
Explore top institutions in Quebec and start your study abroad journey in today.