Canada Student Visa 2025–26: New Living Cost Rule from Sept 2025 (INR Breakdown, SDS & GIC Updates)

Thinking about studying in Canada in 2025–26? If that's your plan, it's important to be aware of the new Canada student visa rules that kicked in from September 2025. These updates will affect the amount of living costs you need to show and the GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) amount, especially for Indian students. Keep reading to find out the full INR details, SDS info, and expert tips to help you prepare with confidence.

New Canada Student Visa Living Cost Rule Effective September 1, 2025

Starting September 1, 2025, the Government of Canada has updated the minimum proof of financial support requirement for study permit applicants.

Earlier, international students were required to show CAD 10,000 (₹6.2 lakh approx.) as their annual living cost. From September 2025, this amount will increase to CAD 20,635 (₹12.8 lakh approx.) for a single applicant (outside Quebec).

According to the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines, the new living cost requirement (outside Quebec) will be:

• Single student: CAD 22,895 (approx. ₹14.2 lakh) per year
• Student + 1 family member: CAD 28,502 (approx. ₹17.6 lakh) per year
• Student + 2 family members: CAD 35,040 (approx. ₹21.6 lakh) per year
  
  

(Conversion based on INR 62 per CAD, subject to exchange rate changes)

This increase has been made to better reflect the actual cost of living in Canada and to ensure international students are financially prepared to settle smoothly.

GIC Requirement for Indian Students: How Much to Show in 2025–26

The SDS (Student Direct Stream) program, which was discontinued in November 2024, earlier provided faster visa processing for Indian students applying to Canadian institutions.

All international students planning to study in Canada are required to purchase a GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) from a Canadian bank. This certificate serves as proof of funds to cover the first year’s living expenses.

• In December 2023, the GIC amount was set at CAD 20,635 (approx. ₹13 lakh).
• As of September 2025, the required amount for living expenses outside Quebec (excluding tuition & transportation) is CAD 22,895 (approx. ₹14.6 lakh) for one person.
  
  

This means Indian students will now need to double their GIC investment compared to previous years. While this may seem like a big jump, it ensures that you have sufficient funds to manage your expenses in Canada without financial stress.

Worry Not! Angel EduNext Will Help You Plan Your Canada Study Abroad Journey

The new financial requirements may sound overwhelming, but you don’t need to worry. Choosing the right Canada student visa consultants makes all the difference.

At Angel EduNext, we specialize in guiding students through every step of their Canada student visa application process:

• Personalized financial planning to meet the new living costs and GIC requirements
• Expert assistance in preparing documents and proof of funds
• 1:1 counselling sessions to help you choose the right university and course
  
  

As trusted student visa consultants in Ahmedabad, Angel EduNext has helped 20,000+ Clients successfully achieve their Canada study abroad dreams. Our team of experienced counsellors ensures you are always updated with the latest immigration rules.

Read more: Canada Immigration changes in 2025