Japa Cost Rises: Single Nigerian Applicants Must Show $23,448 for Canada Student Visa
From September 1, 2026, Nigerian students applying for Canadian study permits will face stricter financial rules.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a significant increase in the mandatory cost-of-living proof of funds requirement. According to the official notice published on the IRCC website, these changes adjust financial guidelines to match the current cost of living.
The IRCC stated that the upgrade aims to protect international students from financial exploitation and vulnerability while living in Canada.
Strict New Rules for Financial Evidence
Under the new directives, applicants must prove they have sufficient funds to cover their expenses without relying on employment in Canada. This means applicants must demonstrate coverage for the following:
- Tuition fees for the first year of your programme
- Living expenses for yourself and any accompanying family members.
- Return transportation to and from Canada.
For academic programmes lasting longer than one year, the IRCC explicitly warns: “You must show you have enough financial resources for the first year of your studies… you must also tell us how you plan to pay for the full duration of your studies.”
Furthermore, applicants must clearly prove the legitimate source of funds and verify that the money will remain accessible throughout their entire stay.
New Proof of Funds Breakdown by Family Size
The updated financial thresholds apply to all Canadian provinces except Quebec.
Applicants must provide the following minimum funding amounts per year.
Family Size Required Funds per Year (CAD)
Single Applicant: $23,448
Family of 2: $29,192
Family of 3: $35,888
Family of 4: $43,572
Family of 5: $49,419
Family of 6: $55,736
Family of 7: $62,054
For families size larger than 7, living expenses of $6,318 must be submitted per additional person
