Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I am an international student in PEI?

No, landlords cannot deny a rental application solely because you are an international student. This would generally be considered discrimination under the Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act.

Can landlords in PEI ask for a guarantor from international students?

Landlords may require a guarantor if you lack Canadian income or rental history but must apply this rule fairly to all similar applicants.

Do international students have the same tenant rights in PEI as other tenants?

Yes, all tenants—including international students—are protected by the PEI Residential Tenancies Act and the Human Rights Act.

Can PEI Landlords Refuse to Rent to International Students?

Q: What should I do if I believe I was denied a rental due to discrimination?

Document your experience and file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission using their official complaint form.

Discrimination & Accessibility Prince Edward Island published: June 19, 2025

If you're an international student searching for a rental in Prince Edward Island, you might wonder if landlords can legally refuse your application. Understanding your rights under PEI law is essential so you know where you stand and what to do if you face discrimination.

Can a Landlord Refuse to Rent to International Students in PEI?

Generally, landlords in Prince Edward Island cannot refuse to rent to a tenant based on certain protected grounds, which include nationality, place of origin, or citizenship status. The Prince Edward Island Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination by landlords when offering accommodation^[1]. This means that being an international student alone should not be a reason for refusal.

However, landlords can assess applications based on legitimate business reasons, such as:

Ability to pay rent (verifying income or requiring a guarantor)
Rental history or references
Adherence to property rules or occupancy limits

Rejecting an applicant solely because they are an international student, or due to their country of origin or citizenship, may be considered discriminatory under PEI law.

What Is Considered Discrimination in Renting?

Discrimination occurs when a landlord treats someone unfairly or denies them housing because of a personal characteristic protected by the Human Rights Act. In PEI, these characteristics include race, nationality, ethnic background, religion, age, gender identity, family status, marital status, and disability.

As an international student, if you are denied rental solely due to your status as a non-citizen or newcomer, you may have grounds for a discrimination complaint.

Your Rights as a Tenant in Prince Edward Island

Once you're accepted as a tenant, you have all the legal protections specified in the PEI Residential Tenancies Act^[2]. These rights include fair treatment, privacy, and the right to a safe and healthy home.

For an overview of specific protections, refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Applications, Deposits, and Screening: What Can Landlords Legally Ask?

Landlords may request certain information to verify your ability to pay rent, such as proof of enrolment, bank statements, or a local guarantor. However, they must apply these requirements equally to all applicants.

When it comes to deposits, PEI law restricts landlords to one month's rent as a security deposit. For more on this, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

If you're ever unsure why your rental application was denied, politely ask the landlord for clarification in writing. This can help clarify if the decision was based on a legitimate requirement or if it was potentially discriminatory.

If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe a landlord refused your rental application because you are an international student, document what happened. You have the right to file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission.

Form: Human Rights Complaint Form (no number assigned)
When to use it: If you believe you've been discriminated against when applying for housing, including for reasons related to nationality or citizenship.
How to use: Download and complete the Human Rights Complaint Form. Submit it by mail, in person, or by email to the PEI Human Rights Commission.

The commission will review your case, may contact the landlord for their side, and can mediate or investigate as needed.

Which Board Handles Tenant Complaints in PEI?

Housing issues, eviction, deposits, and most rental disputes are overseen by the Residential Tenancy Office of Prince Edward Island (RTO). For discrimination issues specifically, the PEI Human Rights Commission is the official body.

Action Steps If Denied a Rental as an International Student

Ask the landlord (preferably in writing) why your rental application was not accepted.
Keep records of all correspondence and any listing ads.
If denial seems to be related to your nationality or student status, download and complete the Human Rights Complaint Form.
Submit the form to the PEI Human Rights Commission.

For a smooth experience when moving into your new rental, check out Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Need help searching for student-friendly rentals? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a wide range of listings and tools tailored to student renters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord ask for my immigration documents or study permit?
Landlords can request proof of your identity and may require proof of student enrolment, but they must not share or misuse your documents or ask for information not relevant to the rental decision.
What should I do if a landlord refuses my application for no clear reason?
If you suspect the refusal is due to your status as an international student, ask the landlord for their reason in writing and keep all documentation. If evidence points to discrimination, contact the PEI Human Rights Commission.
Is it legal for landlords to require a guarantor from international students?
Requiring a guarantor is permissible, but landlords should apply this requirement equally to all applicants who cannot otherwise show income or rental history. It cannot be used to indirectly discriminate.
Who can help if I have trouble understanding my rights as a tenant?
The PEI Residential Tenancy Office and the PEI Human Rights Commission both provide support. University student services and tenant advocacy groups may also assist international students navigating the rental process.
Are there any special tenant protections for international students in PEI?
International students have the same tenant rights under the Residential Tenancies Act as all other tenants.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for International Students Renting in PEI

Landlords cannot legally refuse your rental application solely because you are an international student under PEI discrimination laws.
Always keep written copies of your rental communications and, if denied, ask politely for the landlord's reasons.
If you encounter unjust treatment, you can file a complaint with the PEI Human Rights Commission for free.

Be proactive, know your rights, and reach out for assistance when needed to protect yourself and secure safe, fair housing in Prince Edward Island.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancy Office of PEI: Information on rental laws, disputes, and forms
PEI Human Rights Commission: Discrimination complaint process and support
University student services: Guidance and support for housing issues
For more details about PEI renter and landlord laws, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island