Cost of Bringing Your Family to Canada as an International Student (2027)

Bringing your spouse and children to Canada while you study requires careful financial planning. In addition to your tuition fees, you must demonstrate that you can cover living expenses and return transportation for yourself and your accompanying family members. You may also need to budget for your children's education, health insurance, housing, and other household expenses. This guide explains the cost of bringing your family to Canada as an international student in 2027, including the official study permit proof-of-funds requirements and the additional expenses you should consider before applying. All amounts are in Canadian dollars (CAD) unless otherwise stated.

How Much Money Do You Need to Bring Your Family to Canada?

When applying for a Canadian study permit, you must demonstrate that you can support yourself and any family members accompanying you without relying on work in Canada. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), your funds must cover:

• Tuition fees for your first year of study.
• Living expenses for yourself and accompanying family members.
• Return transportation costs for yourself and each accompanying family member.

If your program lasts longer than one year, you must also explain how you intend to pay for the remaining duration of your studies.

Canada study permit proof-of-funds requirements for 2027

For study permit applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, the following minimum living-expense amounts apply to applicants planning to study outside Quebec. These amounts exclude tuition and transportation costs.

These figures are official minimums for financial assessment, not a guarantee that your family can cover every expense comfortably. Your actual budget will depend on your city, accommodation, family size, and lifestyle.

School Fees for Your Children in Canada

International students attending Canadian primary and secondary schools may be charged tuition. The amount depends on the province or territory, school board, and type of school. 

As a general reference, the Government of Canada's EduCanada study-cost guide lists these annual tuition ranges:

• Public schools: approximately $10,000–$17,000.
• Private or independent day schools: approximately $15,000–$30,000.
• Private or independent boarding schools: approximately $63,000–$83,000.

These are general reference ranges, not fees that every family will have to pay. Contact the school board where you intend to live to confirm whether your children qualify for publicly funded schooling without international tuition, which documents are required, and whether any additional fees apply.

You should also check whether your children need study permits. IRCC generally requires minor children applying from outside Canada to obtain study permits before entering Canada to attend school, including when accompanying parents who are applying for study or work permits. Review the official IRCC guidance on studying in Canada as a minor.

Health Insurance for Your Family in Canada

Health insurance is another important part of your family budget. Canada's public health insurance system is administered by provincial and territorial governments, and eligibility rules differ by location. International students and their dependants are not automatically covered everywhere.

Depending on where you study, you may qualify for provincial or territorial coverage, receive coverage through your institution's insurance plan, or need to purchase private insurance. Waiting periods and coverage conditions may also apply.

Before travelling, confirm:

• Whether you and your dependants qualify for provincial or territorial health coverage.
• Whether your institution's student health plan covers your spouse and children.
• Whether private insurance is required before public or institutional coverage begins.
• Whether prescription medication, dental care, vision care, and emergency services are covered.

The Government of Canada's guide to health care for newcomers explains how coverage varies across Canada. You should also contact your institution's international student office and the relevant provincial health authority to determine your family's coverage and costs.

Housing Costs for International Students With Families

Housing is often one of the largest expenses for students moving to Canada with a spouse or children. While a student living alone may be able to share accommodation, a family may need a larger apartment or house with enough bedrooms and access to schools, public transportation, and other services.

Rental costs vary significantly by location, property size, and neighbourhood. Larger cities such as Toronto and Vancouver can be expensive, while some smaller cities and communities may offer more affordable options.

When planning your housing budget, account for:

• Monthly rent and any required deposit.
• Utilities, internet, and mobile phone plans.
• Furniture, kitchen supplies, and other initial setup expenses.
• Public transportation or vehicle-related expenses.
• Proximity to your campus, childcare, and your children's school.

Research rental listings in your intended city and compare the cost of accommodation suitable for your family size. The Government of Canada's EduCanada study-cost guide is a useful starting point for planning your broader study budget.

How Much Should a Family Budget for One Year in Canada?

Your actual cost of bringing your family to Canada depends on where you live, whether your children pay school tuition, your insurance arrangements, and your accommodation needs.

Use the following categories to estimate your first-year expenses.

There is no single reliable total that applies to every family. Obtain current estimates for your city and school, then calculate your likely first-year spending and a contingency fund before committing to a study plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Canadian Study Budget With Your Family in Mind

Studying in Canada with your family can be rewarding, but it requires more than covering tuition alone. Before applying, confirm the latest proof-of-funds rules, research school eligibility for your children, understand your family's health insurance options, and estimate accommodation and travel expenses for your intended destination.

Choose a program and city that align with your academic goals and your household budget. Planning these costs early can help you make a more informed decision about studying in Canada with your family.