Can Landlords Refuse to Rent to International Students in Nova Scotia?

Renting as an international student in Nova Scotia can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re concerned about being denied a place to live because of your student status or citizenship. Canada's human rights laws protect people from certain types of discrimination, but the rules can be nuanced and vary provincially. This guide explains your rights, when a landlord can say no legally, what to do if you believe you’ve been discriminated against, and how to navigate the rental process with confidence.

Overview: Tenant Rights for International Students in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia welcomes many international students each year. Under provincial law, tenants—including international students—have protections against unfair discrimination. However, there are specific circumstances when a landlord might lawfully refuse to rent.

If you want more context about general tenant and landlord rights in Nova Scotia, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia page.

Human Rights Protections: Are Landlords Allowed to Discriminate?

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Act ^[1] prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to someone based on their:

• Race, colour, or nationality
• Religion or creed
• Ethnic or national origin
• Age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity
• Family status or disability

Citizenship or "international student" status may overlap with "national origin," and so a blanket refusal to rent only because you are an international student could be challenged as discriminatory.

When Can a Landlord Refuse?

There are circumstances when a landlord can decline a rental application, as long as they have a legitimate and non-discriminatory reason. For example, a landlord can ask for references, proof of ability to pay rent (such as employment or financial support), or check rental history. If an international student does not meet reasonable application criteria (for example, insufficient proof of ability to pay rent), this is generally legal.

Application Process and Rental Deposits

All tenants must follow the same application process, which can include providing a security deposit. In Nova Scotia, security deposits can't exceed half a month's rent. For details on the rules, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What to Do If You’re Refused a Rental

If you believe you’ve been refused housing because you’re an international student and not for justified reasons like credit or references, you may have a right to file a complaint.

Filing a Human Rights Complaint

• Document everything: Save messages, emails, or voicemails from the landlord.
• Apply first: Make sure you complete the full application process; don’t leave blanks.
• Contact the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission: File a complaint online or by phone. Forms and instructions are available on the official commission website.

Your Tenancy Board and the Law in Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program oversees landlord-tenant disputes and helps enforce the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia) ^[2]. While the Program mainly handles issues like evictions, rent increases, and repairs, human rights complaints must go directly to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission.

If you need information about your rights after the lease is signed—like rent payments or repairs—read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Key Steps for International Students Searching for Rentals

To boost your chances and protect your rights as an international student:

• Have financial documents (proof of income, bank statements, or scholarship letters) ready
• Request reference letters from prior landlords or professors
• Always complete applications honestly and keep copies
• Ask for written reasons if a landlord refuses you
• If you suspect discrimination, reach out to the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission promptly

Remember, Canada's best rental listings platform can help you browse available rental homes across Nova Scotia and the country.

FAQ: Renting as an International Student in Nova Scotia

1. Can a landlord ask if I’m an international student?
   Yes, they can ask about your status for legitimate reasons (e.g., verifying ability to pay), but they cannot refuse your application simply because you are an international student.
2. What documents should I prepare as an international student?
   It’s wise to prepare your study permit, proof of enrolment, references, and financial documents when applying for rentals in Nova Scotia.
3. Where do I complain if I suspect discrimination?
   You should contact the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission if you believe a landlord has refused to rent to you because of your international student status.
4. How much can a landlord ask for a deposit?
   In Nova Scotia, the security deposit is capped at half a month’s rent. For more details, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
5. Does the Residential Tenancies Program handle discrimination complaints?
   No, discrimination complaints are handled by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, while the Residential Tenancies Program deals with rental agreements, evictions, and repairs.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you solely for being an international student, if that refusal is based on national or ethnic origin.
• Always document your application process and keep records in case you need to file a complaint.
• Use official channels, such as the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, if you believe you’ve been discriminated against.

Keep these points in mind for a smoother rental experience in Nova Scotia.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission – Complaint Information and Contacts
• Residential Tenancies Program (Nova Scotia) – For rental disputes, security deposits, and tenancy rules
• Nova Scotia Tenants Rights Coalition – Tenant advocacy and support
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia – Full overview of rights and responsibilities

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1. See human rights protections in housing under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.
2. Rental relationships in Nova Scotia are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (Nova Scotia).

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