Guardianship for Minor Students in Quebec

Guardianship for Minor Students in Quebec: A Comprehensive Guide

For minor students arriving in Quebec, Canada, to pursue their education, guardianship is a crucial aspect of ensuring their safety, well-being, and legal protection. Quebec has specific regulations and guidelines regarding guardianship for minor students, especially international students under the age of 18. This guide will provide an in-depth overview of guardianship in Quebec, covering its legal requirements, the responsibilities of a guardian, and how parents can ensure their children are well-cared for during their studies.

1. Understanding Guardianship for Minor Students in Quebec

In Quebec, a guardian is an adult who has the legal authority and responsibility to care for a minor who is not living with their parents. For international students, this guardianship is often referred to as custodianship, and it is a mandatory requirement for minors studying in the province.

2. Who Needs a Guardian?

• International Students Under 18: All international students under the age of 18 studying in Quebec must have a guardian.
• Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents Under 18: While these students may not require a guardian for immigration purposes, they may need one for school registration if they are living away from their parents.

3. Legal Requirements for Guardianship in Quebec

• Custodianship Declaration Form: For international students, a Custodianship Declaration Form must be completed, signed by both the parents of the student and the appointed guardian, and submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
• Residency: The guardian must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Quebec.

4. Roles and Responsibilities of a Guardian

• Accommodation and Supervision: The guardian is responsible for ensuring the student has a safe and appropriate place to live.
• Health and Safety: The guardian must ensure the student has access to necessary medical care and support.
• Educational Support: The guardian must monitor the student’s academic progress and assist them with school-related matters.
• Legal Responsibility: In case of emergencies, the guardian must be available to make decisions on behalf of the student.

5. Types of Guardianship Arrangements

• Family Guardianship: Parents can appoint a trusted relative or family friend who resides in Quebec as the guardian.
• Professional Guardianship Services: Families can also choose a registered guardianship service that specializes in providing care and support for international students.

6. Choosing the Right Guardian

• Experience: Select a guardian who has experience in supervising minors.
• Reputation: Verify the guardian’s background and references.

7. Cost of Guardianship: $3,000-$5,000 per year

8. Benefits of Having a Guardian in Quebec

• Safety and Supervision: The student is in a secure environment.
• Legal Compliance: It meets the requirements of Quebec and IRCC.
• Emotional Support: The student has someone to turn to during difficult times.

9. How to Change Guardians:

If parents wish to change the guardian, they must complete a new Custodianship Declaration Form and notify the school and IRCC.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can a guardian be changed mid-year? Yes, but the new guardian must complete the Custodianship Declaration Form and inform the school. The guardian should designate an alternate responsible adult for such situations.
• Is it mandatory to use a professional guardianship service? No, but it is recommended if parents do not have trusted relatives in Quebec.

11. Conclusion

Guardianship for minor students in Quebec is a vital arrangement that ensures the safety, well-being, and academic success of young students. Parents and guardians must understand the legal requirements, roles, and responsibilities involved in guardianship to provide the best support for minor students during their studies in Quebec.

 

In case, if you need help with Guardianship for Minor Students in Quebec or other provinces of Canada, please contact The Custodian or IEC Immigration.