Renting a home as an international student in Alberta can be stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with local tenant rights or face extra scrutiny during the application process. Many students wonder if landlords are legally allowed to refuse to rent to international students, and what actions you can take if you suspect discrimination. This resource explains Alberta laws and walks you through what international tenants need to know for a fair renting experience.

Can Landlords Refuse to Rent to International Students in Alberta?

In Alberta, landlords cannot refuse to rent to a person simply because they are an international student or a non-citizen. However, landlords are legally permitted to request information that helps determine if a prospective tenant can pay rent reliably. This could include asking for proof of income, a guarantor, or a Canadian credit history.

What landlords cannot do is discriminate based on protected grounds defined in the Alberta Human Rights Act. This means treating someone unfairly because of characteristics such as race, place of origin, religion, or citizenship is not allowed. Landlords should assess all applications fairly, based on legitimate rental criteria such as ability to pay rent and references.

Understanding Common Barriers for International Students

While Alberta law protects against outright discrimination, international students do encounter some practical hurdles:

• No Canadian credit history: Many landlords consider credit scores, which may disadvantage newcomers.
• Requesting larger deposits: Landlords sometimes ask for extra payment, which is not permitted by law. In Alberta, security deposits cannot exceed one month's rent. Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know explains these rules in depth.
• Needing a guarantor: Landlords can ask for a guarantor, but must make this request consistently from all tenants, not just international students.

If you feel you are being denied housing because of your status as an international student, and not based on your ability to pay rent or your references, this may be discrimination under the Alberta Human Rights Act.

What Counts as Discrimination?

Discrimination occurs when a landlord denies housing or treats tenants differently due to characteristics such as nationality, citizenship, or ethnic origin. However, landlords can apply reasonable criteria across all applicants; for example, requiring a proof of income or references is allowed if required for everyone.

If you believe you've been declined only because you are an international student—not because of financial or reference reasons—you may have grounds to file a complaint.

What To Do If You Suspect Discrimination

If you feel a landlord refused to rent to you because you are an international student and not because of neutral, business-related reasons, you have the right to file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

• Document conversations, emails, or messages with the landlord.
• Keep copies of rental ads and application responses.
• Gather any written reasons for refusal.

To report discrimination, you must submit the official Human Rights Complaint Form to the Alberta Human Rights Commission. Download and instructions here. Complete this form as soon as possible after the incident and explain clearly how you believe you were discriminated against.
You can also seek guidance from a tenant support group or legal clinic if you need help with the process.

What Screening Criteria Are Permitted?

Landlords in Alberta are allowed to use certain screening criteria as long as they do not target specific groups. Some examples allowed under Alberta law:

• Checking income or employment (including scholarships or international funds)
• Requiring references
• Evaluating past tenancy history

But landlords cannot set a blanket policy of rejecting all international students. They also cannot use citizenship or immigration status alone as a reason for denial.

For more information on Alberta tenancy laws, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

Tips for International Student Tenants

• Prepare references from previous landlords or your Canadian university.
• Show proof of scholarships, student loans, or bank statements to demonstrate ability to pay rent.
• Ask for clear reasons if your rental application is denied, and keep all written communication.
• Always read and keep a copy of your lease agreement for your records. What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement can help you understand your next steps.
• Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to compare available options and find welcoming landlords.

Remember: The law protects your right to fair treatment in the rental process, and resources are available if you face unfair barriers.

FAQ: Renting as an International Student in Alberta

1. Can a landlord ask if I'm an international student or my visa status?
   Landlords may ask for proof of your ability to pay rent and legal permission to be in Canada, but they cannot deny your application solely because of your status as an international student.
2. Can I be asked for a higher deposit because I'm new to Canada?
   No. Under Alberta law, the security deposit cannot exceed one month's rent, regardless of your background.
3. What should I do if I feel I was discriminated against?
   Gather written evidence and file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission as soon as possible.
4. What documentation can help my application?
   References, proof of income or scholarships, and a guarantor (if available) can reassure landlords of your reliability.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta for a comprehensive overview.

Key Takeaways For International Students

• Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because you are an international student, but they can use fair and reasonable screening criteria.
• If discrimination happens, submit a complaint to the Alberta Human Rights Commission promptly.
• Prepare documents and references to support your rental application.

With preparation and awareness, international students can protect their rights and find safe homes in Alberta.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Human Rights Commission – Complaint Process
• Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• Service Alberta – Tips and Fact Sheets for Tenants
• University legal clinics and students’ unions offer guidance for international student tenants.
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. Alberta Human Rights Act: Full text of the Alberta Human Rights Act
2. Alberta Residential Tenancies Act: Official legislation
3. Alberta Human Rights Commission Complaint Form: Download the Human Rights Complaint Form
4. Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): File a tenancy dispute

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