by Quick answer: The main Canada student visa requirements are a letter of acceptance from a school, a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) in most cases, proof of identity and proof that you can pay your tuition and living costs. From 1 September 2026, a single student outside Quebec must show CA$23,448 (twenty-three thousand, four hundred and forty-eight Canadian dollars) a year for living costs, plus first-year tuition and travel. The study permit fee is CA$150, and biometrics cost CA$85.
Below, this guide lists every Canada student visa requirement from IRCC, together with the amounts and the documents you need.
Last verified: 4 October 2026 against Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Canada student visa or study permit?
People often say “student visa”. However, the document that lets you study in Canada is a study permit. So when you apply, you are applying for a study permit, and this guide uses both terms.
Documents you always need
- Letter of acceptance: your school issues it, and you upload it. Post-secondary schools must validate it, or IRCC returns your application with your fee refunded.
- Proof of identity: a valid passport or travel document, as well as 2 recent passport-size photos with your name and date of birth on the back.
- Proof of financial support: enough money for you and also for any family who come with you.
Documents you need in most cases
In addition to these, most students also need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL). You usually get it after you accept your offer and pay some or all of your tuition. But if you study in Quebec, you need a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) instead.
How much money you need for a Canada student visa
| Family members (including you) | Amount per year, excluding tuition and travel |
|---|---|
| 1 | CA$23,448 |
| 2 | CA$29,192 |
| 3 | CA$35,888 |
| 4 | CA$43,572 |
Note that these amounts apply to applications made on or after 1 September 2026, outside Quebec. For the full table and worked examples, read our guide to Canada study permit proof of funds.
Documents you may need
- A letter of explanation, which IRCC recommends, to explain your study goals.
- A medical exam, for example because you will stay more than 6 months.
- A police certificate, but only if IRCC asks for one.
- Proof of care for minors under 17 without a parent or guardian.
- Finally, any documents your local visa office asks for.
Canada student visa requirements for Nigerian, Ghanaian and Indian students
The core list is the same for every country. However, IRCC says some visa offices ask for extra country-specific documents, so check the instructions for your country before you apply. Also, check early whether you need a medical exam, so it does not delay your application.
Frequently asked questions
How much bank balance is needed for a Canada student visa?
For one person outside Quebec, you need CA$23,448 a year for living costs, plus your first-year tuition and travel.
How much is the Canada student visa fee?
The study permit fee is CA$150 per person. On top of that, biometrics cost CA$85 per person.
Can I apply without a PAL?
Most students need one. Still, some are exempt, so check IRCC’s list before you apply.
Official sources
This is general information, not immigration advice. Check IRCC before you apply, because amounts change each year.
