It may come as a surprise, but minors have the opportunity to apply for a Canada study visa under certain circumstances. If they have a close relative who is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident willing to act as their custodian, they can embark on this educational journey. Additionally, if you’re planning to study or work in Canada and your child will accompany you, they can also apply for their own study visa. In this article, we will outline the requirements and steps for minors seeking a Canada study visa.
Who Qualifies as a Minor for a Study Visa?
The age of majority varies across Canada’s provinces and territories, which can influence who qualifies as a minor for a study visa. Below is a breakdown of the age of majority by region:
| Province or Territory | Age |
| Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan | 18 |
| British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Yukon | 19 |
Parents or Legal Guardians
Minors of foreign nationality can come to Canada for educational purposes if they can demonstrate one of the following:
They will be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
They have a custodian in Canada, which can be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is willing to care for and support the minor child.
Appointing a Custodian
To designate a custodian, a declaration form from the custodian must be submitted along with the study permit application. The form consists of two pages that may appear similar, but each page has a distinct purpose:
The first page needs to be signed by the custodian and notarized in Canada (certified by a lawyer or notary).
The second page needs to be signed by the parents or legal guardians of the minor child and notarized in their home country.
Study Without a Permit
According to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines, minors already in Canada may study without a study permit in the following cases:
- Kindergarten attendance, regardless of their parents’ status in Canada.
- Enrollment in pre-school, primary, or secondary school, with a parent who has permission to work or study in Canada.
- Refugee status or refugee claimants.
- Parents holding refugee status or refugee claimants.
- Temporary visitors attending a course or program of study lasting six months or less.
- Enrollment in a course or program of study lasting six months or less while in Canada unaccompanied.
Choosing a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
To apply for a study visa, it’s crucial to ensure that you receive admission to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). All primary and secondary schools in Canada are designated, enabling minors seeking education up to the 12th standard to choose any school that offers admission. For post-secondary education, you can check whether a college or university is a designated learning institution on the official website.
Minors Accompanying Parents with Study or Work Permits
When underage children accompany their parents with valid study or work permits to Canada, certain considerations come into play. These children must apply for a study permit before their entry into Canada. However, they are not required to provide a letter of acceptance from a school during the application process. Nevertheless, a letter of acceptance becomes necessary if the minor child is already in Canada and has a family member with an approved work or study permit.
How to Apply for a Canada Study Permit for Minors
The application process for study permits for minors depends on whether they are inside or outside Canada, mirroring the procedures for regular study permit applications. Ensure you follow the appropriate application guide based on your specific situation.”