Quebec: new requirements for proof of funds in study permits

As of January 1, 2026, international students will have to demonstrate a new budget in the so-called "funds test" in order to obtain a study permit in the province of Quebec. 

The amount in effect as of the date of this publication will be in effect until December 31, 2025, so it is important to start planning to comply with the new requirement. 

Then, read with me to the end so that you can stay informed and make the right decisions about your case. 

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What is the fund test?

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Proof of funds is a requirement of the Canadian government that consists of demonstrating that the student has enough money to cover tuition fees at the educational institution, living expenses such as accommodation, food and transportation. Also round-trip airfare to and from Canada, and the like.

The aim is to ensure that those who come to study can support themselves without financial problems and without the need to resort to unauthorized work.

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What will change in Quebec in 2026?

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According to the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) and the federal government (IRCC), they will change the amounts that must be demonstrated in the proof of funds, remaining as follows:

• A student over 18 years of age must demonstrate CAD 24,617, compared to CAD 15,508 until December 31. If you are under 18 years old, you will have to prove 24,617 CAD CAD, compared to the current 7700 CAD.
• If the student travels with family members, the amount will increase according to the number of accompanying persons.

It is important to remember that these funds are independent of tuition and transportation, and that Quebec sets its own requirements thanks to the special agreement with the federal government.

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When must the proof of funds be submitted?

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The demonstration of the new funds can take place in several stages:

1. When applying for the Quebec Certificate of Acceptance (CAQ, Certificat d'acceptation du Québec): in some cases, depending on where the application is made, the Quebec Ministry of Immigration may ask for proof of financial solvency.
2. When renewing the CAQ, if applicable.
3. When applying for a federal study permit at IRCC: proof of funds is always required at this stage, without exception.
4. When extending the federal study permit, if applicable.

In all cases, Quebec and the federal government review the same funds, so you won't need additional money for each stage.

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Documents that can be submitted

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Both students outside of Canada who are applying for the first time and those who are already in Canada and need to renew their CAQ or study permit must present clear and recent documents that demonstrate their financial capacity. 

Consider these:

• Bank balances for the last four months with the name of the holder.
• Official letters issued by banks with the amount available.
• Proof of scholarships or financial aid indicating how much money will be received each month or year.
• Pay stubs reflecting current employment income.
• Updated passbooks along with proof of account ownership.

The documents must be valid, up to date and in order, so that they demonstrate your real ability to cover tuition, living expenses and transportation. 

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Reflect on your immigration application

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Before making decisions, think about the following:

• Have you considered applying to other provinces? Do you have a defined immigration plan? Do you need guidance on how to properly present your proof of funds?

Answering these types of questions gives you clarity on what you need to do to get the study permit.

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Specialized immigration consulting in Quebec

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At Immiland Canada we know that these changes generate doubts and require guidance. That is why we offer concrete solutions with our team of lawyers and CICC regulated consultants for Quebec, led by Carolina Feican.

We are ready to evaluate your case and design a specific plan in demonstrating your proof of funds for your study permit.

If you need it, you can schedule a consultation at these links:

Specialized consulting for Quebec. 

Schedule an appointment with Carolina Feican (COO & Regulated Consultant CICC with QC MIF).

I hope you find this information useful. Thanks for reading. See you next blog.

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With love,

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Immiland Canada