:Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto: A Comprehensive Guide
Toronto, Canada's largest city and a hub for international education, welcomes thousands of international students each year. For minors—students under the age of 18 (or 19 in some provinces)—a crucial requirement for studying in Canada is appointing a custodian. To meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines, both the parents and the custodian must complete and notarize the Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646). In this process, notary services play an essential role. This article provides an in-depth overview of notary services for custodianship in Toronto, from the legal framework to finding affordable and reliable notaries.
Understanding Custodianship in Canada: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
Custodianship is a legal arrangement that ensures minor students have a responsible adult living in Canada to support them during their studies. This adult custodian assumes responsibility for the student’s well-being and acts as a liaison between the student, their school, and the parents back home.
Key Requirements: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
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The custodian must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident over 19 years old.
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The custodian should live within a reasonable distance from the minor’s school.
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A Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646) must be signed and notarized by the parents and the custodian.
What Is the Custodianship Declaration Form?
The IMM 5646 form is a legal document issued by IRCC. It consists of two pages:
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Page 1: Completed by the custodian in Canada.
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Page 2: Completed by the parents or legal guardians of the minor student in their home country.
Each page must be notarized separately, typically in the respective countries—Canada and the student's home country.
The Role of a Notary in Custodianship: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
A notary public is a legal professional authorized to witness signatures, certify documents, and administer oaths. For custodianship:
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In Canada, a notary public will verify the identity of the custodian and witness their signature.
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Abroad, a notary or consular officer will do the same for the parents or guardians.
Notarization is mandatory. Without it, IRCC will not accept the custodianship declaration, and the study permit may be refused.
Why Notary Services Are Critical in Toronto: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
Toronto is a top destination for international students attending public high schools, private academies, and post-secondary institutions like the University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University. Many minor students arriving from abroad require local notary services to:
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Complete the Canadian side of the custodianship form.
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Certify identification documents, school admission letters, or homestay contracts.
Notaries also help ensure documents are completed correctly to avoid delays in visa or study permit processing.
Types of Notary Services Available in Toronto
There are several options for notary services in Toronto:
2. Independent Notaries Public
These are licensed individuals who provide document notarization as a stand-alone service. They are ideal for simple notarizations like the IMM 5646.
3. Online Notarization Services
Post-pandemic, Ontario has allowed remote online notarization, where clients can sign documents during a video call with a notary. This is especially convenient for parents abroad or custodians in remote parts of Toronto.
4. Mobile Notary Services: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
For added convenience, some notaries offer mobile services, traveling to homes, schools, or offices within Toronto to complete the notarization.
Costs of Notary Services in Toronto
Prices vary based on the provider and service type:
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| In-person notarization | $40 – $100 per page |
| Mobile notary | $100 – $200+ |
| Online notarization | $35 – $75 per page |
| Package for IMM 5646 form | $70 – $150 |
Some notaries offer discounts for students or packages that include multiple document notarizations (e.g., identification + IMM 5646).
Choosing the Right Notary for Custodianship
Key Factors to Consider:
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Experience with Immigration Documents:
Choose notaries familiar with IRCC forms, especially IMM 5646. They can guide you in completing it accurately. -
Location and Accessibility:
Opt for notaries located near schools or public transit hubs in Toronto. Mobile or online services may suit those with tight schedules. -
Certification and Licensing:
Ensure the notary is registered with the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General. -
Languages Spoken:
Some notaries in Toronto offer services in multiple languages (e.g., Mandarin, Spanish, Farsi), which is beneficial for non-English-speaking parents or students. -
Customer Reviews and Ratings:
Look up Google reviews or Better Business Bureau ratings to assess credibility and service quality.
Step-by-Step: How to Notarize the IMM 5646 in Toronto
Step 1: Complete the Form
The custodian must fill out page 1 of IMM 5646.
Step 2: Book a Notary Appointment
Choose from in-person, online, or mobile services in Toronto.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
Bring valid ID (driver’s license, PR card, passport), proof of address, and the completed form.
Step 4: Attend the Notary Meeting
Sign the form in front of the notary. They will verify your identity, witness the signature, and apply a seal/stamp.
Step 5: Send to Parents: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
Forward the completed and notarized page to the student’s parents for them to complete and notarize page 2 in their home country.
Step 6: Submit With Study Permit Application
Include both notarized pages in the application package to IRCC.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
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Incomplete Forms: All sections must be filled out completely and legibly.
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Incorrect Names: Names on the IMM 5646 must match the passports and school records exactly.
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Outdated Notarization: Ensure the document is notarized close to the application submission date.
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Improper Notary Stamp: IRCC requires a proper seal or stamp from a licensed notary public.
Can a Lawyer Be a Notary?
Yes. In Ontario, all lawyers are automatically notaries. If you consult an immigration lawyer for a study permit application, they can also notarize your custodianship form, often at no additional cost if bundled with other services.
Do Parents Abroad Need a Canadian Notary for the 2nd page of document ?
No. Parents can use a local notary public in their home country. However, it must be a recognized legal authority. In some cases, parents may also visit a Canadian embassy or consulate to get the form notarized.
The Importance of Timing: Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto
Students are often denied study permits due to errors or delays in submitting the custodianship form. IRCC considers custodianship critical for the safety and supervision of minor students. Ensure notarization is done well in advance of your study permit application deadline.
Additional Notarization Needs for Students
In addition to IMM 5646, minor international students may require notarized documents for:
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School registration
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Homestay contracts
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Medical consent forms
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Guardianship affidavits
Many Toronto notaries offer package deals for student documentation.
Conclusion
Notary services for custodianship in Toronto are an essential component of the international student journey. Whether you're a custodian preparing to support a student or a parent arranging their child's education from abroad, ensuring proper notarization of the Custodianship Declaration Form (IMM 5646) is vital. Toronto offers a wide range of notary services—affordable, accessible, and tailored to the needs of international students and their families.
Working with experienced notaries who understand the nuances of immigration documentation ensures that your application is compliant, timely, and stress-free. Don’t wait until the last minute—schedule your notarization early and set your student up for a successful academic start in Canada.
In case, if you need Notary Services for Custodianship in Toronto or other cities of Canada, please fill in application below or contact us directly.
