Minor Study Visa for Canada: A Complete Guide for Parents and Guardians
Canada’s world-class educational system, safe environment, and multicultural society make it a great place for college and university students as well as young children looking for high-quality education. If you are a parent or guardian wishing to send your child to study in Canada, it is crucial that you comprehend the requirements, eligibility, and obligations associated with the Minor Study Visa process..
Who is Considered a Minor in Canada?
In Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, a minor child is generally defined as an individual under the age of 18.New Brunswick, Yukon, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, and Newfoundland and Labrador were among the 19 places visited.Except in some excluded categories, minor children who wish to study in Canada for longer than six months must get a study permit.
When Does a Minor Need a Study Permit?
A minor kid must have a study permit if they are not a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, they want to attend preschool, elementary, secondary, or high school, and the study program lasts more than six months.Exclusions (situations in which a minor might not require a study permit):The child’s parents are foreign diplomats or representatives.One parent has a valid work or study permit, and the minor is already in Canada.
Who Can Apply for a Minor’s Study Permit?
Typically, parents or legal guardians submit an application on the child’s behalf. Both online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and in-person at a Visa Application Center (VAC) in your nation of residence are options for doing so.Conditions Must Be Met for a Minor Study Permit
Key papers and requirements for the application are as follows:
-
Letter of Acceptance
issued by one of Canada’s designated learning institutions (DLIs), such as a provincially approved public or private institution. -
Custodianship Declaration
A guardian is required in Canada for minors under the age of 17 who travel without a parent. This is a responsible adult (18+) who is typically a close friend or family member.requires the parents and the custodian to sign a notarized declaration. -
Proof of Relationship
Add legal guardianship paperwork or birth certificates to prove the minor’s relationship to the parent or guardian. -
Financial Proof
Evidence proving the guardian or parent can afford to pay for the child’s living expenses and schooling, including:
Bank records
Employment verification
returns of income taxes
Letters of sponsorship (if any) -
Passport and Photographs
A valid passport and passport-sized photographs meeting IRCC specifications. -
Medical Exam (if required)
Depending on the child’s country of origin or duration of stay, a medical exam may be necessary.Step-by-Step Process to Apply
Step 1: Choose the School and Get Accepted
Get the Letter of Acceptance and enroll the child in a DLI.Step 2: Prepare Documentation
assemble the necessary paperwork, such as financial documentation, custodianship forms, and, if necessary, medical clearance.Step 3: Submit the Application
Apply online through a VAC or the IRCC portal. The processing price for a study permit is 150 CAD.Step 4: Biometrics and Interview (if required)
Over-14-year-olds can be asked to attend an interview and provide biometric information.Step 5: Wait for Processing
While processing periods vary by nation, they typically fall between two and twelve weeks.
After Arrival in Canada: Responsibilities and Conditions -
Attending School
Along with making reasonable academic progress, the child must attend the DLI specified in the permit. -
Change of Custodian or Address
It is imperative that the IRCC be notified right away if the child moves or changes guardians. -
Extension of Study Permit
Apply for an extension of the child’s study permit before the existing one expires if they are staying in Canada longer than anticipated.What Happens When the Minor Turns 18/19?
A child ceases to be a minor after they attain the age of majority in their jurisdiction. Following that, individuals could: Proceed with their studies with a fresh or extended study permission .If you are eligible, apply for permanent residency .Transfer to a university or college under the terms of a typical study permit.child Can Parents or Guardians Accompany the Minor?
Although parents are able to apply for a visiting visa or a super visa in order to travel with their , they are not permitted to work or study in Canada unless they apply for a work or study permit separately.
Benefits of Studying in Canada as a Minor
Excellent education starting at a young age
Road map for possible permanent residency
a more secure and cosmopolitan setting
Improved readiness for Canadian universities and colleges
Chance to learn French or English fluently