Canada Student Visa 2025–26: What Indian Students Need to Know About the New Rules

 

Planning to study in Canada in 2025–26? There are some important changes you need to know about the Canada student visa process, especially when it comes to living costs and the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). These new rules are going to affect how much money you need to show when applying for your student visa. But don't worry – we’ll break everything down for you in simple terms!

Let’s dive in!

New Living Cost Requirement for Canada Student Visa (Effective September 2025)

Starting September 1, 2025, the Government of Canada is updating the living cost requirement for student visa applicants. This change is meant to help students plan better and avoid financial stress when they get to Canada.

Here’s the new breakdown of the minimum living costs you need to show, based on your situation:

Single student (outside Quebec): CAD 20,635 (around ₹12.8 lakh) per year

Student + 1 family member: CAD 28,502 (around ₹17.6 lakh) per year

Student + 2 family members: CAD 35,040 (around ₹21.6 lakh) per year

Previously, the requirement was CAD 10,000 (about ₹6.2 lakh), but this amount has been doubled to reflect the actual cost of living in Canada. The goal is to ensure that international students, especially those from India, have enough funds to cover rent, food, travel, and other essential expenses during their stay.

Why Did Canada Increase the Living Cost Requirement?

So, why the sudden increase? The previous amount of CAD 10,000 was set years ago and didn’t align with the current cost of living in Canada. Prices for housing, food, and transportation have gone up, and the government wants to make sure students don’t face financial difficulties when they arrive. With this update, students can focus more on their studies and enjoy their Canadian experience without worrying about money.

What is GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) and How Does It Change for Indian Students?

In addition to proving you can cover your living costs, all international students must also invest in a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). This is basically a way to show that you have enough funds to support yourself for your first year in Canada.

For the 2025–26 intake, the GIC amount for students outside Quebec is now CAD 22,895 (around ₹14.6 lakh). This is an increase from the previous amount, in line with the new living cost rule.

While the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program was discontinued in November 2024, you still need the GIC to apply for your visa. The GIC will be held in a Canadian bank, and you’ll be able to access the funds monthly once you arrive in Canada.

How Does This Affect Indian Students?

For Indian students, this means you’ll need to show more money than in previous years. While the increase might sound a little overwhelming, it’s actually designed to help you manage your finances more comfortably and avoid stress when you get to Canada.

Here’s a checklist of the key documents you’ll need for your visa application:

Proof of funds showing the updated living costs (CAD 20,635 for a single student).

GIC investment of CAD 22,895 (around ₹14.6 lakh).

Proof of tuition fee payment (for part or full tuition).

Supporting documents: Passport, admission letter, and bank statements.

Tips to Prepare for the New Financial Requirements

Don’t stress – there are ways to make sure you’re financially prepared. Here are a few tips to help you get ready:

Start saving early: The more time you give yourself, the easier it will be to meet these new financial requirements.

Look into education loans: If saving the full amount seems difficult, consider applying for an education loan.

Open your GIC account early: This is an important step, and you should open your GIC account with a trusted Canadian bank before applying.

Double-check your documents: Make sure you have everything in order – proof of funds, tuition payments, and other required documents.

How Can Student Visa Consultants in Ahmedabad Help?

Navigating the visa application process can feel complicated, especially with the new financial requirements. But you don’t have to do it alone! Student visa consultants in Ahmedabad can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you meet the latest requirements.

If you’re in Ahmedabad, consider reaching out to Angel EduNext Pvt. Ltd., one of the leading student visa consultants in Ahmedabad. Here’s how they can help:

Financial planning assistance: Angel EduNext can help you plan your finances based on the new GIC and living cost updates.

Visa application support: From document preparation to filing your application, they’ll ensure everything is correct and on time.

University and course selection: They’ll provide personalized advice on choosing the right university and course to match your goals.

With years of experience and a strong track record of successful student visa applications, Angel EduNext Pvt. Ltd. is committed to making your journey to Canada as smooth as possible.

Final Thoughts

The Canada student visa process for 2025–26 may have some new rules, but don’t let that discourage you. With the right preparation and expert help from student visa consultants in Ahmedabad, you’ll be able to meet the new financial requirements and focus on what matters most: your education.

Start early, stay organized, and reach out for professional advice. Whether you’re planning to apply for your visa, sort out finances, or choose a university, having the right support makes all the difference. Angel EduNext Pvt. Ltd. is here to help you every step of the way.