Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada
Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada: A Complete Guide
International students under the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province) are considered minors and are required to have a legal guardian while studying in Canada. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of guardianship for minor students in Canada, including who can be a guardian, how to appoint one, and the responsibilities of guardians.
What is Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada?
For international students, this means that a guardian is responsible for ensuring the student’s safety, well-being, and compliance with Canadian laws.
Why is Guardianship Required for Minor Students?
- Legal Requirement: Canadian provinces require minor students to have a guardian for safety and welfare.
- Supervision: A guardian ensures the student has adequate supervision and support.
- Decision-Making: Guardians are authorized to make decisions regarding the student’s education, healthcare, and general welfare.
Age of Majority in Canadian Provinces
- Alberta: 18 years
- British Columbia: 19 years
- Manitoba: 18 years
- New Brunswick: 19 years
- Newfoundland and Labrador: 19 years
- Nova Scotia: 19 years
- Ontario: 18 years
- Prince Edward Island: 18 years
- Quebec: 18 years
- Saskatchewan: 18 years
Who Can Be a Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada?
A guardian for a minor student can be:
- A family member living in Canada
- A family friend or relative approved by the student’s parents
- A professional guardian from a certified agency
- A school-appointed guardian (in some cases)
How to Appoint a Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada
- Choose a Suitable Guardian: Parents should select a responsible and trustworthy person who lives in Canada.
- Complete a Custodianship Declaration Form: Both the parents and the guardian must complete and sign the form, which must be notarized.
- Submit the Form with Study Permit Application: The form should be included in the student’s study permit application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Responsibilities of a Guardian
- Ensuring the student’s safety and well-being
- Communicating with the school regarding the student’s progress
- Making medical decisions in case of emergencies
- Providing guidance and support for the student’s daily life
Types of Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada
- Temporary Guardianship: For short-term stays, such as a semester or academic year.
- Permanent Guardianship: For students enrolled in long-term programs.
Legal Requirements for Guardianship in Canada
Guardianship laws and requirements may vary by province, but generally, guardians must:
- Be at least 19 years old (or the age of majority in their province)
- Reside in Canada
- Provide proof of identity and address
- Sign the Custodianship Declaration Form
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Choosing a Trustworthy Guardian: Parents should conduct thorough background checks.
- Understanding Legal Requirements: Parents should review provincial guidelines for guardianship.
- Effective Communication: Guardians should maintain regular contact with parents and the student.
Cost of Guardianship Services & Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada
If parents choose to use a professional guardianship agency, costs can range from CAD 500 to CAD 3,000 per year, depending on the services provided.
Checklist for Parents
- ✅ Choose a reliable guardian in Canada.
- ✅ Complete the Custodianship Declaration Form.
- ✅ Ensure the form is notarized.
- ✅ Submit the form with the study permit application.
- ✅ Maintain regular communication with the guardian.
Conclusion
Guardianship for Minor Students in Canada is an essential aspect of ensuring the safety and well-being of minor students studying in Canada. By understanding the requirements, choosing a responsible guardian, and maintaining clear communication, parents can ensure their child has a positive and secure experience in Canada.")}
In case, if you need help with Guardianship and Custodianship for Minor Students in Canada, please contact The Custodian Canada or IEC Immigration for timely and quality assistance.