Minimum settlement funds table by family size
IRCC sets the minimum settlement funds for the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) and Federal Skilled Trades (FST) programs according to total family size:
| Number of family members | Funds required (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | C$15,263 |
| 2 | C$19,001 |
| 3 | C$23,360 |
| 4 | C$28,362 |
| 5 | C$32,168 |
| 6 | C$36,280 |
| 7 | C$40,392 |
| For each additional family member | Add C$4,112 |
How to count family size: you must include yourself, your spouse or common-law partner, your dependent children, and your spouse's or partner's dependent children. You must count your spouse or partner and dependent children even if they are Canadian citizens or permanent residents, or if they are not coming to Canada with you.
Source: IRCC: Proof of funds, Skilled immigrants (Express Entry), checked 2026-10-19.
Who needs proof of funds and who is exempt
- Proof of funds required: FSW and FST applicants who do not have both work authorization in Canada and a valid job offer must keep the required funds available both when they apply and when the permanent resident visa is issued.
- Exempt from proof of funds: applicants invited under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or FSW/FST applicants who are authorized to work in Canada and have a valid job offer, do not need to provide proof of funds; instead, upload a signed letter explaining that you were invited under CEC or have a valid job offer with work authorization.
See the FSW and CEC comparison guide for how IRCC orders invitations when you qualify for both programs.
Source: IRCC: Proof of funds, Skilled immigrants (Express Entry), checked 2026-10-19.
Official bank letter requirements and ineligible assets
For proof of funds, IRCC requires official letters from every bank or financial institution where you keep money. Each letter must be printed on the financial institution's letterhead and include:
- the financial institution's contact information (address, telephone number and email address);
- your name;
- your outstanding debts, such as credit card balances and loans;
- for each current banking and investment account: the account number, the date each account was opened, the current balance of each account, and the average balance for the past 6 months.
Liquid and unencumbered funds: the funds must be readily available to you. You cannot use equity on real property as proof of settlement funds, and you cannot borrow this money from another person. Money in a joint account with your spouse counts, and money in an account under your spouse's name alone can count if you prove you have access to the funds.
Source: IRCC: Proof of funds, Skilled immigrants (Express Entry), checked 2026-10-19.