Custodianship for Students in Toronto

Custodianship for Students in Toronto: A Complete Guide for International Families

Toronto is one of Canada’s most diverse and dynamic cities, attracting thousands of international students each year to attend high-quality public and private schools. However, for minors (under 18 in Ontario), studying in Toronto comes with a key legal requirement: custodianship. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what custodianship means, why it’s necessary, how to choose a custodian, and what responsibilities are involved for everyone from parents to homestay providers.

What is Custodianship for Students in Toronto?

Custodianship is a legal arrangement required by Canadian immigration and education authorities for international students under the age of majority (18 in Ontario). A custodian is a responsible adult (Canadian citizen or permanent resident) who is entrusted with the care and supervision of a minor student while they study in Canada.

While a custodian is not the student’s legal guardian, they act in place of a parent and are responsible for ensuring the student’s well-being, especially in emergencies.

Why is Custodianship for Students in Toronto Required?

The Government of Canada mandates custodianship for international students under 18 to ensure that there is a trusted adult nearby who can make decisions on the student’s behalf in case of emergencies, school matters, or legal concerns. This is particularly important because:

• Parents are often overseas and cannot respond quickly.

• Schools require a local emergency contact.

• Immigration authorities need assurance that the child has appropriate supervision and support.

Without a custodian, a minor may be denied a study permit or refused enrollment at a Canadian school.

Legal Age and Custodianship for Students in Toronto

In Ontario, a person is considered a legal adult at 18. Therefore:

• Students under 18 need a custodian.

• Students 18 and over do not need a custodian, but they may still benefit from having local support.

Who Can Be a Custodianship for Students in Toronto?

To be eligible as a custodian in Toronto, an individual must:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

• Be 19 years or older.

• Live in or near Toronto to respond quickly in case of emergencies.

• Have a clear criminal record.

• Be willing and capable of taking responsibility for a minor student.

Custodians can be:

• Relatives or family friends living in Toronto.

• Professional custodianship service providers.

• Homestay hosts (if they meet all legal requirements).

Responsibilities of a Custodianship for Students in Toronto

A custodian’s role goes beyond being a contact person. Their responsibilities include:

1. Emergency Support: Being available 24/7 to respond to emergencies (medical, legal, etc.).

2. School Communication: Attending parent-teacher meetings, signing school documents, and being the contact point for academic or behavioral issues.

3. Legal Consent: Giving consent for medical treatment or school activities when needed.

4. Monitoring Well-Being: Ensuring the student’s living conditions are safe and appropriate.

5. Parental Liaison: Communicating with parents to update them on the student’s situation.

Custodianship for Students in Toronto Letter Requirements

When applying for a study permit, the student must include a Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646). This includes:

1. Part A: Completed and notarized by the custodian in Canada.

2. Part B: Completed and notarized by the parents/legal guardians in the student’s home country.

This letter is a sworn statement of the custodian's agreement to take responsibility and the parent’s consent to this arrangement.

How to Choose a Custodian in Toronto

Choosing a custodian is a major decision. Here are the main options:

1. Family Members or Friends

If the student has relatives or close family friends in Toronto, this is often the preferred option. These individuals may already have a relationship with the student and family and can offer a familiar environment.

Pros:

• Trusted relationship

• Lower cost

• More personalized support

Cons:

• Not always available or qualified

• May not have time or willingness for full responsibilities

2. Professional Custodianship Services

Many agencies in Toronto offer custodianship services for a fee. These services are ideal for families without connections in Canada.

Pros:

• Experience with school and legal systems

• Structured support and regular updates

• Available 24/7 for emergencies

Cons:

• Monthly or yearly fees

• Less personal relationship

3. Homestay Hosts as Custodianship for Students in Toronto

Some homestay hosts can also serve as custodians if they meet all legal criteria. This can be convenient as both roles are handled by one household.

Pros:

• Simplifies communication and supervision

• Reduces the number of contacts for the family

• Immediate response in emergencies

Cons:

• Not all homestay hosts are qualified or willing

• Must be clearly stated in agreements

Custodianship for Different School Types in Toronto

Public Schools: Custodianship for Students in Toronto

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) both require custodianship for all minor international students. Proof of custodianship is a mandatory part of the application process.

Private and Independent Schools

Private schools in Toronto also require custodianship for minors. Some private institutions offer assistance in finding or assigning a custodian as part of their international student support services.

Post-Secondary Institutions

Universities and colleges in Toronto (like the University of Toronto or George Brown College) do not require custodianship for students 18 and older. However, if a student under 18 is admitted, they must have a custodian.

How Much Does Custodianship Cost in Toronto?

Custodianship fees vary depending on the service provider and scope of services. On average:

• Initial setup and notarization: $100–$300 CAD

• Ongoing custodianship service: $1,000–$2,500 CAD per year

• Bundled services with homestay or education consulting: Additional costs may apply

Families should always ask for a written contract outlining duties, availability, and fees.

Red Flags to Avoid" Custodianship for Students in Toronto

When selecting a custodian, families should be cautious of:

• Providers who cannot show proper ID or legal status.

• Services that promise guaranteed visas or school admissions.

• No written agreements or unclear terms.

• Custodians living too far from the student’s school or home.

Always check reviews, ask for references, and ensure they are reachable in emergencies.

Role of Parents

Even with a custodian in Toronto, parents remain the legal guardians of the student. Their responsibilities include:

• Choosing a trusted custodian.

• Maintaining regular contact with their child and custodian.

• Authorizing medical and school-related decisions when needed.

• Monitoring the student’s academic and personal well-being from afar.

Tips for Students

• Keep your custodian’s contact info handy at all times.

• Inform your custodian if you are traveling, sick, or facing problems.

• Treat your custodian with respect—they are your support system.

• Don’t hide problems like bullying, illness, or loneliness.

Frequently Asked Questions: Custodianship for Students in Toronto

Can a student change their custodian?

Yes. However, immigration and school authorities must be informed, and a new notarized Custodianship Declaration must be submitted.

Can a homestay host and custodian be different people?

Yes. In such cases, both parties must coordinate and understand their roles clearly.

Do students 17 turning 18 mid-year still need a custodian?

Yes, until they officially turn 18. Some schools require a custodian for the entire school year regardless of birthday.

Is Custodianship for Students in Toronto needed for short-term programs?

For programs less than six months, custodianship may not be mandatory, but schools often still request it for minors.

Final Thoughts

Custodianship is a cornerstone of international education for minors in Toronto. It ensures that students have a safety net while away from their families and helps Canadian institutions fulfill their duty of care. Choosing the right custodian is a critical step in a student’s successful educational journey in Canada.

Families should plan early, understand the legal requirements, and select custodians who are trustworthy, responsive, and committed to the student's well-being. With proper support in place, students can enjoy a safe, enriching, and transformative experience in one of the world’s most welcoming cities.

In case, if you need help with Custodianship for students in Toronto or other cities of Canada, please fill in application below or contact The Custodian.