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Can an uncle's affidavit of support cover your study permit funds?

Canada • Study Permit • study 0 views
By VisaBuddies Communityvia community — compiled from public visa forums

Documents Needed

  • Affidavit of support

    Signed letter from the family member confirming they'll fund your studies.

  • Proof of the sponsor's assets

    Bank statements or asset documentation showing the funder can genuinely cover the costs.

Step-by-Step

If you're being funded by extended family (like a paternal uncle) rather than a parent or spouse, and worried this is unusual for a study permit application:

  1. Know that extended family support is generally accepted. Study permit applicants aren't required to be funded specifically by a parent or immediate family member — an uncle or other relative supporting you with an affidavit and proof of assets is a legitimate route.

  2. Understand that acceptance is still discretionary for extended family. Immediate family (parents, spouse) support tends to be treated as more straightforward, while extended family support is accepted but ultimately depends on the visa officer's assessment of the relationship and financial proof.

  3. Make the funding relationship and asset proof as clear and well-documented as possible — a solid affidavit paired with clear evidence of the uncle's assets reduces the discretionary risk mentioned above.


Since the final call rests with the reviewing officer, there's no guarantee, but this isn't a disqualifying setup on its own.

Dos, Don'ts & Tips

  • Tip: Extended family (like an uncle) can legitimately fund your study permit application via an affidavit of support and asset proof.
  • Do: Document the funding relationship and the sponsor's assets as thoroughly as possible, since extended-family funding is subject to more officer discretion than immediate family.

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