Custodianship for students in Manitoba

Custodianship for Students in Manitoba: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Introduction

Manitoba is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, affordable cost of living, and welcoming communities. However, students under the age of 18 who wish to study in Manitoba must have a legal custodian if they are not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Custodianship ensures that minor students have a responsible adult in Canada who can provide support, make important decisions on their behalf, and ensure their well-being.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of custodianship for international students in Manitoba, including the legal requirements, responsibilities of custodians, how to find a custodian, and the benefits of custodianship services.

2. What Is Custodianship for students in Manitoba?

Custodianship is a legal arrangement in which a responsible adult takes care of an international minor student while they study in Canada. This ensures the student's safety, well-being, and compliance with Canadian immigration and educational regulations.

In Manitoba, a custodian must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is at least 19 years old. They must be willing to take legal responsibility for the student and provide care in the absence of a parent or legal guardian.

3. Legal Requirements for Custodianship for students in Manitoba

To meet Canadian immigration requirements, international students under 18 years old who do not live with a parent must appoint a custodian. The Government of Canada requires the submission of a Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646), which consists of two parts:

• Part 1: The custodian completes and signs this section in front of a notary public in Canada.
• Part 2: The student’s parents complete and sign this section in front of a notary public in their home country.

This form must be included with the student’s study permit application.

4. Responsibilities of a Custodianship for students in Manitoba

A custodian plays a crucial role in supporting the student academically, emotionally, and logistically. Their key responsibilities include:

• Providing a Safe Living Environment: Ensuring the student has proper housing and access to necessities.
• Emergency Support: Acting as the primary contact for the student in case of medical, legal, or other emergencies.
• Academic Assistance: Communicating with the school about the student’s progress, attendance, and overall well-being.
• Legal and Immigration Compliance: Assisting with visa renewals, study permits, and other legal matters related to the student’s stay in Canada.
• Parental Communication: Keeping parents informed about the student’s academic performance, health, and overall adjustment to life in Manitoba.

5. Finding a Custodianship for students  in Manitoba

There are several ways to find a custodian in Manitoba:

• Relatives or Family Friends: Some students have relatives or family friends in Canada who can act as custodians.
• School-Provided Custodianship Services: Some schools offer custodianship services as part of their international student support programs.
• Professional Custodianship Agencies: There are private companies that specialize in providing custodianship services for international students. These agencies offer 24/7 support and ensure compliance with Canadian laws. Such Companies as IEC Immigration, The Custodian, Student Homestay and Accommodation Canada will be able to assist with timely and quality Custodianship and/or Homestay Services all over Canada.

6. Homestay and Custodianship for students in Manitoba

Many international students in Manitoba choose to stay with a homestay family, which can also serve as a custodianship arrangement. Homestay families provide a safe and nurturing environment, while also acting as a responsible adult figure for the student. Homestay programs often include:

• Private or shared accommodation
• Home-cooked meals
• English language support
• Cultural immersion experiences

When selecting a homestay program, ensure that it aligns with the requirements of the custodianship agreement.

7. Benefits of Custodianship Services

Having a custodian provides international students and their parents with peace of mind. The benefits include:

• Safety and Security: Ensuring the student is well cared for in a foreign country.
• Legal Compliance: Meeting all Canadian immigration and education requirements.
• Academic Support: Helping students navigate their studies and school life.
• Emergency Assistance: Having a responsible adult available in case of medical or other emergencies.
• Cultural Integration: Helping students adjust to life in Canada and develop independence.

8. Costs of Custodianship Services in Manitoba

Fees generally range from $2,500 to $3,500 CAD per year. Some services charge a one-time notarization fee, while others provide ongoing support packages that include legal documentation, school communication, and emergency services.

9. How to Choose the Right Custodianship for students in Manitoba

When selecting a custodian, consider the following:

• Experience and Reputation: Choose a custodian with experience in supporting international students.
• Availability: Ensure the custodian is accessible and responsive in case of emergencies.
• Proximity to the Student’s School: A local custodian can provide better support.
• Clear Communication: The custodian should be able to communicate effectively with both the student and their parents.
• Legal Knowledge: A custodian with knowledge of immigration and education laws can be an asset.

10. How to Apply for Custodianship in Manitoba

To arrange for a custodian, follow these steps:

1. Identify a suitable custodian through family, school services, or a professional agency.
2. Complete the Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646) and have both sections notarized.
3. Submit the form with the student’s study permit application to the Canadian government.
4. Inform the student’s school about the custodianship arrangement to ensure smooth communication.
5. Regularly update custodianship records if there are any changes in the arrangement.

11. Conclusion

Custodianship is a vital requirement for international minor students studying in Manitoba. It ensures their safety, well-being, and compliance with Canadian regulations. Whether arranged through family, school programs, or professional agencies, a responsible custodian provides essential support to help students thrive in their academic journey. Parents should carefully consider custodianship options to ensure their child receives the best possible care and guidance while studying in Canada.

By choosing a reliable custodian, students can focus on their education while enjoying a safe and enriching experience in Manitoba.

In case, if you need help with Custodianship and/or Homestay for Students in Manitoba or other provinces of Canada, please fill in application below or contact us directly.