Custodianship for Students in Manitoba
Custodianship for Students in Manitoba
Introduction
Canada is a premier destination for international students due to its high standard of education, safety, and multicultural society. Among its provinces, Manitoba stands out for its affordability, community-focused lifestyle, and strong education system. For international students under the age of 18, Manitoba, like all provinces in Canada, requires a custodianship arrangement. Custodianship ensures that minors have a responsible adult residing in Canada who can act in place of a parent in emergencies and for general welfare. This report provides an in-depth look into the legal, administrative, and practical aspects of custodianship for international students in Manitoba.
Understanding Custodianship for students in Manitoba
Definition
Custodianship in Canada refers to the legal responsibility of an adult (usually a Canadian citizen or permanent resident over 19 years old) to care for and support a minor international student while they study in the country. This custodian is responsible for the student's well-being, including academic, emotional, and physical needs, and acts in loco parentis (in place of a parent) during the student’s stay.
Age of Majority in Manitoba
In Manitoba, the age of majority is 18 years old. Therefore, international students under 18 are considered minors and must have a designated custodian to legally study in the province.
Why Custodianship is Required: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
Custodianship serves as a safeguard to ensure the health, safety, and educational support of minor students. Specific reasons include:
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Legal representation: Minors cannot legally sign documents or enter contracts.
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Emergency response: A custodian must be able to act in emergencies (medical or legal).
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School communication: Schools require a local contact person responsible for the student.
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Immigration compliance: IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) mandates proof of custodianship for minor study permit holders.
Legal Requirements for Custodianship in Manitoba
Immigration Requirements: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
To apply for a study permit, international minor students must provide a Custodianship Declaration Form [IMM 5646], signed by both:
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The custodian in Canada, who must get the declaration notarized by a Commissioner of Oaths or Notary Public in Canada.
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The parents or legal guardians of the student in their home country, who must also have their portion notarized locally.
This document must be submitted as part of the study permit application to IRCC.
Manitoba School Divisions’ Requirements
In addition to federal requirements, individual school divisions in Manitoba (such as Winnipeg School Division or Pembina Trails) often require:
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Local Address Proof of the custodian
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Background checks or proof of a clear criminal record
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Medical authorization to act on the student's behalf
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Signed agreement between the custodian, the student, and the parents
Some school divisions may require the custodian to attend an interview or orientation session to review responsibilities.
Types of Custodianship Arrangements: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
1. Family Custodianship
In many cases, families arrange for a relative in Canada to act as a custodian. This is ideal because:
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The custodian is personally known to the student.
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It can reduce costs.
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Emotional support and cultural understanding are often higher.
However, the custodian must live near the student and be able to fulfill all legal obligations.
2. Professional Custodianship Services: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
For students without family in Manitoba, many parents turn to professional custodianship agencies. These organizations offer:
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24/7 emergency support
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Regular student monitoring and reports
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Assistance with medical visits, school meetings, and transportation
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Homestay coordination and placement
Popular agencies serving Manitoba include:
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The Custodian Canada
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Student Homestay and Accommodation Canada
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IEC Immigration
3. School-Designated Custodians
Some school divisions or private schools provide custodianship as part of their international student program. These custodians are usually staff members trained in student care and welfare.
Responsibilities of a Custodian: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
The custodian plays a crucial role in supporting the minor student. Key responsibilities include:
Academic Support
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Attend parent-teacher meetings
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Monitor academic progress
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Help with school selection or course registration
Health and Safety
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Approve emergency medical treatment
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Help with insurance claims
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Coordinate regular medical check-ups
Legal and Administrative: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
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Sign documents on behalf of the student
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Communicate with immigration authorities if needed
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Assist in renewing study permits or visas
Daily Life Management
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Arrange accommodation (usually a homestay)
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Guide the student on local laws and customs
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Offer emotional support and mentorship
Choosing the Right Custodian: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
Choosing a custodian is a serious decision and should be based on the student’s needs, age, and personality. Factors to consider:
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Proximity to the school and homestay
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Availability and time commitment
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Experience working with minors
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Cultural understanding and language
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Reputation and references (for agencies or individuals)
Parents are advised to interview multiple candidates or service providers before making a decision.
Custodianship in Public vs. Private Schools
Public Schools
Public schools in Manitoba, including those in Winnipeg, Brandon, and rural districts, typically require custodian information upon admission. Many divisions do not provide custodianship services, so parents must make arrangements separately.
Examples: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
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Winnipeg School Division: Requires notarized documents and contact details of the custodian.
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Louis Riel School Division: Encourages homestay and custodianship through partners.
Private Schools
Private schools like St. John's-Ravenscourt School or Balmoral Hall School may offer in-house custodianship or partner with approved agencies. These schools often bundle custodianship with tuition and homestay fees.
Homestay and Custodianship for students in Manitoba
Homestay with Custodianship
In many cases, homestay hosts can also serve as custodians, especially if they have undergone background checks and received parental approval. This model offers:
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Seamless communication
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A secure living environment
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Stronger emotional bonds
However, not all hosts are willing or qualified to act as custodians. In such cases, a separate custodian must be appointed.
Costs
Homestay costs in Manitoba range from CAD $800 to $1,100 per month, while professional custodianship services can cost between CAD $1,000 to $2,500 per year, depending on the level of service.
Risks and Challenges
While custodianship is designed to protect students, there are potential challenges:
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Inadequate oversight: Some custodians may not fulfill their duties diligently.
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Communication gaps: Language or cultural differences between students and custodians can cause misunderstandings.
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Legal complications: If a custodian is unavailable during emergencies, students may face delays in receiving care.
To mitigate these risks, parents should maintain regular contact with the custodian and student and select reputable service providers.
Steps to Appoint a Custodian: Custodianship for students in Manitoba
Step 1: Identify a Suitable Custodian
Whether a family member, private individual, or professional agency, ensure the custodian is trustworthy and meets legal criteria.
Step 2: Complete IMM 5646
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The parent(s)/guardian(s) complete and notarize the Parent Declaration.
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The custodian completes and notarizes the Custodian Declaration.
Step 3: Submit with Study Permit Application
Attach the custodianship declaration to the minor’s application for a study permit.
Step 4: Inform the School
Once admitted, provide the school with full custodian contact details, signed agreements, and emergency authorization forms.
Step 5: Maintain Ongoing Contact
Custodians should regularly communicate with parents and schools and submit reports if required.
Conclusion
Custodianship for international students in Manitoba is a legal and practical necessity that plays a central role in safeguarding minors during their educational journey. Whether through family, private providers, or school-arranged solutions, a well-chosen custodian ensures not only compliance with immigration law but also a nurturing environment that supports the student’s academic and personal growth. Parents should carefully assess their options, understand the obligations, and choose custodians who can offer reliable support throughout the student’s stay in Canada.
In case, if you need help with Custodianship for Students in Manitoba or other provinces of Canada, please contact The Custodian.