Renting in Canada as an international student

Canada is one of the most popular destinations in the world for international students. Getting here and getting settled involves several steps, from immigration paperwork to finding a place to live. This guide walks through the key things to take care of when arriving as an international student in Canada.

Note: Immigration rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before applying.

Study Permits

Before studying in Canada, most international students need a study permit. You must first be accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a school approved by the government to host international students.

Core documents required for a study permit application generally include proof of acceptance from a DLI, proof of identity, and proof of financial support. Most undergraduate applicants also need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL) from the province or territory where they will study, confirming they have a spot within the provincial allocation for study permits. As of January 1, 2026, master's and doctoral students enrolled at a public DLI are exempt from the PAL requirement. Other exemptions may apply depending on your situation.

It is generally recommended to apply for a study permit before arriving in Canada. In some circumstances you may be able to apply from within Canada or at the port of entry. Check the IRCC website for the process that applies to you.

Post-Graduation Work Permit

After completing an eligible program at a DLI, many international graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), an open work permit that allows you to work for any Canadian employer without a job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment.

The length of the PGWP depends on the length of your program:

• Programs between eight months and under two years result in a PGWP valid for the same duration as the program
• Programs of two years or more qualify for a three-year PGWP
• Master's degree graduates qualify for a three-year PGWP regardless of how long their program was

As of November 1, 2024, PGWP applicants must include an approved English or French language proficiency test result with their application. University graduates need a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or NCLC level 7. College and other non-university graduates need a minimum CLB/NCLC level 5. The PGWP is issued only once per person, so program and institution selection matters before you enrol. Field-of-study requirements apply for some non-degree graduates. Verify current eligibility rules on the IRCC website before applying.

Opening a Bank Account

One of the first practical steps after arriving in Canada is opening a bank account. A Canadian account makes it easier to receive money, pay rent, and manage day-to-day expenses. Most major Canadian banks offer student accounts with reduced or waived monthly fees. Bring your passport and study permit when applying.

Getting a Cellphone Plan

A local phone plan is essential for navigating a new city and staying connected. Canada has several major providers and a range of prepaid and postpaid options. Compare coverage, data allowances, and international calling features before committing. Prepaid plans can be a practical starting point if you are unsure about your usage needs.

Finding Temporary Accommodation

If you do not have a long-term rental lined up before you arrive, temporary accommodation gives you time to get your bearings and search properly. Options include short-term furnished apartments, sublets, hotels, and hostels. On liv.rent, you can filter listings by rental type and furnishing to find short-term furnished options in your city.

Finding a Long-Term Rental

Most international students will want to secure a longer-term rental as soon as they can. If on-campus residence is not available or does not suit your needs, off-campus rentals are available near universities and colleges across the country.

Canadian landlords typically ask for proof of income, credit history, and references. As a new arrival without a Canadian credit history, you can still strengthen your application by verifying your identity and income on liv.rent, selecting that you are a first-time renter or do not yet have a Canadian credit history, and building out a complete Renter Resume. This gives landlords an accurate picture of your situation and lets them assess your application fairly.

It is also possible to secure a rental before arriving in Canada. Once your liv.rent profile is complete, you can apply to listings from anywhere in the world.

Find a Verified Rental on liv.rent

liv.rent lists verified rentals across Canada. Verified landlord profiles and listings mean you can search safely from wherever you are in the world.