Canada implements new regulations for international students

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented three new regulations for international students effective September 1. These changes aim to ensure students possess sufficient financial resources and to increase the integrity of the study permit process.

As part of an annual adjustment tied to the cost of living, the financial threshold for a single applicant studying outside Quebec has risen to at least C$23,448, an increase of C$553. Families must also show higher amounts: C$29,192 for two people and C$35,888 for a family of three. These figures cover living expenses only and do not include tuition or transportation costs. Applicants must demonstrate how they intend to fund the full duration of their studies.

Additionally, the IRCC is intensifying compliance investigations, particularly for high-risk study permit renewals and those previously processed through the Student Direct Stream (SDS). A new centralized verification mechanism is also being implemented to validate Letters of Acceptance and ensure information matches school records. Failure to provide accurate information may result in findings of misrepresentation.