Canada’s Free Trade Agreements
Canada’s Free Trade Agreements

Study in Canada as Minor Child

Minor Child Definition

A minor child is someone under the age of majority, which is determined by each province or territory in Canada. The age of majority is:
  • 18 years: In Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan
  • 19 years: In British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Yukon

Caring for a Minor Child in Canada

Parents or legal guardians must ensure that the minor child has care and support during their stay in Canada. Children under 17 years old must either:
  • Travel with their parent/legal guardian or
  • Have a custodian in Canada

A custodian is a responsible adult in Canada (a Canadian citizen or permanent resident) who will look after the child. Custodianship is optional for children 17 or older but might still be requested.

Submit the Custodianship Declaration form along with the minor’s study permit application.

Study Permit Requirements for Minor Children

When a Study Permit is Needed

No study permit required for children who are:
  • Canadian citizens or permanent residents
  • Foreign nationals accompanying a parent who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Refugee claimants or children of refugees

Study permit required for children who:

  • Are foreign nationals with parents on temporary resident status (visitor, work, or study permit)
  • Are coming to Canada without a parent or guardian
  • Are in Canada without status

Why Apply for a Study Permit If Not Required?

A study permit allows a child to:

  • Stay in school after reaching the age of majority
  • Get a secondary school co-op work permit
  • Access certain social services in some provinces/territories

Applying for a Study Permit for a Minor

  • If outside Canada: Minor children must apply for a study permit before entering Canada, even if their parent has a valid study or work permit.
  • Acceptance letter from a Canadian school (unless coming with a parent who already has a permit)
  • Additional documents for lone parents
  • If already in Canada: Minor children should apply for a study permit to study at primary or secondary school if they meet the requirements.

Extending a Study Permit for Minor Children

  • Minor children need a new letter of acceptance to extend their study permit.
  • Apply at least 90 days before the current permit expires.

In Case of Expired Study Permit

Minor children must have valid status (study permit, visitor visa, or eTA). If their study permit expires, they may apply for restoration of their status within 90 days.

Work Options

Work Permit

Work Options

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