Gifted money from parents can generally be used if it is truly yours to keep — IRCC usually expects a signed gift letter confirming you don't have to repay it. Fixed deposits may count if you can withdraw them when needed; locked-in funds are a problem. The key rule: funds must be readily available and unencumbered — not borrowed, not pledged, and not tied up. Stocks and property equity are generally not accepted as-is; liquid savings are safest.
Updated July 2026