Québec has announced a significant change that will impact all future international students: starting January 1, 2026, applicants for temporary selection for studies must now demonstrate $24,617 CAD in financial capacity to cover their basic living needs in the province.
This updated requirement applies equally to adults and minors, and replaces the previous multi-component calculation by combining settlement fees, basic living costs, and mandatory health/hospital insurance into one fixed amount.
The government says the adjustment is meant to ensure students can realistically support themselves during their study period, especially given rising living and healthcare costs in the province.
A Major Shift for Incoming Students
Under Québec’s International Student Program, applicants must already prove they can cover tuition, travel, and living expenses. With the new increase, the financial threshold becomes more demanding and may influence the plans of many students considering Québec as their study destination.
Québec officials note that these changes aim to strengthen the integrity of the study permit system and ensure students arrive with the resources needed to attend school full-time, a core condition of the Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ).
What Students Must Demonstrate
To obtain a CAQ for studies, applicants must show the financial ability to cover:
- Tuition fees
- Transportation
- Basic living needs
- Settlement fees (first year)
- Health and hospitalization insurance
Failing to meet or maintain these obligations could result in CAQ cancellation, especially if a student does not study full-time, lacks proper insurance, or attends an institution not listed on their CAQ.
Health Insurance Rules Also Reinforced
International students must have valid health and hospital insurance for their entire stay and this requirement extends to accompanying family members.
Those from countries with a social security agreement with Québec may access RAMQ public health insurance, while others must obtain private insurance within 5 to 30 days of arrival, or risk violating their CAQ conditions.
Students are warned that any medical services received without proper insurance can result in billing with a 200% surcharge, underscoring the importance of timely coverage.
What This Means for International Students
This update marks one of the most substantial adjustments to Québec’s study requirements in recent years. As global education competition grows and the cost of living continues to rise, Québec is tightening its criteria to ensure students are well-prepared financially before arrival.
For future applicants, careful planning and updated financial documentation will be crucial when applying in 2026 and beyond.