Custodianship for students in Canada from Nigeria

Custodianship for Students in Canada from Nigeria

Custodianship is a critical requirement for Nigerian students who are minors (under 18 or 19, depending on the province) and wish to study in Canada. This arrangement ensures that minor students have a responsible adult in Canada who can provide supervision, support, and care, ensuring their safety and well-being during their stay.

1. Understanding Custodianship for students in Canada from Nigeria

Custodianship is a legal arrangement where a responsible Canadian adult is designated to care for an international student under the age of majority. This adult, known as a custodian, is responsible for the student’s welfare, including their academic, medical, and social needs. In Canada, the age of majority varies by province:

• Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan: 18 years.
• British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, and Yukon: 19 years.

Nigerian students who are below the age of majority in their province of study must have a custodian as part of their study permit application.

2. Why Nigerian Students Need Custodianship in Canada

Canada is a popular destination for Nigerian students due to its world-class education system, multicultural environment, and numerous academic opportunities. However, for minor students (those below the age of majority), a custodian is required to ensure that they have adequate supervision, support, and guidance while studying far from home.

Benefits of Custodianship for Nigerian Students

• Safety and Security: Custodians ensure that students live in a safe environment and receive proper care.
• Academic Support: Custodians communicate with schools, monitor academic performance, and support the student's educational journey.
• Health and Welfare: Custodians are responsible for ensuring that students have access to healthcare services when needed.
• Legal Compliance: Custodians ensure that the student complies with Canadian laws and immigration regulations.

3. Requirements for Custodianship in Canada: Custodianship for students in Canada from Nigeria

To serve as a custodian for a Nigerian student in Canada, an individual must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Be at least 19 years old (or the age of majority in the province of residence).
• Reside in the same city or province as the student.
• Complete and sign the Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646), which must be notarized by both the custodian in Canada and the student’s parents in Nigeria.

4. How to Arrange Custodianship for Nigerian Students

Step 1: Choose a Custodian: Custodianship for students in Canada from Nigeria

Parents can choose a custodian who is a relative, family friend, or a professional custodian service. For those without connections in Canada, many agencies offer custodianship services.

Step 2: Complete the Custodianship Declaration Form

The form must be completed and signed by the chosen custodian and notarized. The parents in Nigeria must also complete their section of the form and have it notarized.

Step 3: Submit the Form with the Study Permit Application

The completed and notarized Custodianship Declaration Form must be submitted as part of the student’s study permit application.

5. Types of Custodianship Services for Nigerian Students

Private Custodianship: Custodianship for students in Canada from Nigeria

In this arrangement, a family member, relative, or trusted family friend in Canada is chosen as the custodian.

Professional Custodianship Services

These are organizations or agencies that provide custodianship services to international students. They ensure that the student receives consistent support and supervision throughout their stay in Canada.

6. Responsibilities of a Custodian

• Ensuring the student has access to food, shelter, and healthcare.
• Monitoring the student’s academic performance and school attendance.
• Serving as an emergency contact and making decisions in emergencies.
• Communicating with the student’s parents regularly.

7. Costs of Custodianship for students in Canada from Nigeria

The cost of custodianship services varies depending on the provider. Private custodianship is often less expensive, while professional custodianship may involve a fee ranging from CAD 500 to CAD 3,000 per year, depending on the level of support provided.

8. Common Challenges Nigerian Students May Face

• Cultural adjustment and language barriers.
• Homesickness and loneliness.
• Understanding Canadian school systems and expectations.
• Managing finances independently.

9. Conclusion

Custodianship is a vital aspect of ensuring the safety, well-being, and academic success of Nigerian students in Canada. By understanding the requirements and responsibilities involved, parents and students can ensure a smooth and successful educational journey in Canada.

 

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