If you're a young student (under the age of majority) dreaming of studying abroad, the Canada Minor Study Visa pathway, formerly known as a study permit for minors, offers an exceptional opportunity. This guide explains what that entails in 2026, covering the full process, requirements, benefits and updated rules for minors. In short, yes, you can study in Canada as a minor, but the rules are specific. You’ll need to secure acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), meet financial and guardianship obligations, and follow the latest IRCC policy changes effective for 2025–26.
Canada Minor Study Visa (2026 overview)
A concise explainer for parents and students searching this exact term. “Canada Minor Study Visa” is the popular name; officially, it’s a study permit for minors issued by IRCC, with added requirements such as custodianship and proof of funds. This guide uses both terms to match how people search and how Canada regulates the process.
What is a study permit for a minor child?
Under the Canada Minor Study Visa umbrella, officially the study permit for minor children, a “minor” means a foreign national who is under the age of majority in their province or territory of study. A study permit for minors is the standard international study permit, but with additional protections and documentation because of the child’s age.
Key features:
- Each Canadian province or territory sets its own age of majority: 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan; 19 in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut and Yukon.
- The permit allows a minor to enrol in a Canadian school (elementary, secondary or sometimes pre-university) at a registered DLI.
- Important custodianship and guardianship rules apply if the minor is unaccompanied by a parent or guardian.
Why Choose Canada for Minor International Study?
Quality education & global outlook
Canada is home to strong educational systems across provinces, supportive programs designed for international students in Canada, and an English/French bilingual environment. For a minor, this means access to school programs that can lead toward college or university while learning in a culturally diverse context. Learn more through EduCanada’s official resources for studying in Canada.
Safe, welcoming environment
Canadian laws around childcare, guardianship and international student protection are robust. For minors, this means greater peace of mind for families abroad.
Future potential
While the immediate goal is schooling, studying in Canada as a minor also opens possibilities: continuing studies, improving language skills, and building global perspectives. Though minor study does not directly grant work or PR rights, the experience may align with long-term goals.
Eligibility requirements for minors (2026 applicants)
Here are the main eligibility criteria for a minor applying for a study permit:
Age requirement
You must be under the age of majority in the province/territory where you will study. If you turn 18 or 19 during study, the permit continues but different rules might apply.
Acceptance by a DLI
You must obtain a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI) approved by IRCC. Students still improving their English proficiency can check Canadian universities that don’t require IELTS or schools accepting Duolingo scores. For minors, this could be a K-12 or secondary school program. The LOA must clearly specify the program start and end dates.
Financial support
You (or your parents/guardians) must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Return transportation
Update for 2025–26: Canada increased minimum financial thresholds for international students. Families applying for 2026 should plan for a higher proof-of-funds amount than prior years and verify current figures before applying.
Guardianship/custodianship if needed
If the minor is under the age of 17 and coming to Canada without a parent or legal guardian, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident should act as a custodian. The usual form is IMM 5646 (Custodianship Declaration). For ages 17–18/19, officers may request custodianship at their discretion.
Study permit necessity
In many cases, a minor must apply for a study permit before entering Canada, but there are exceptions. When the program is under 6 months, or when the child is already in Canada with a parent who holds valid work or study status, a study permit may not be strictly required. Nevertheless, getting one is usually recommended for flexibility.
Types of study-permit scenarios for minors (and exemptions)
Program ≤ 6 months
If the minor plans to attend a program that is six months or less and will complete it within that timeframe, a study permit may not be required. However, applying for one is often advisable for flexibility.
Program > 6 months
If the program is more than six months, or the minor will stay for a longer term (e.g., full secondary school certificate), then a study permit is required, and must be secured before arrival.
Accompanying parent/guardian vs coming alone
- If the minor is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with valid status (citizen, PR, or work/study permit holder), the permit requirement may differ.
- If the parent is only a visitor (tourist) and the child attends school, then the permit is required.
Changing institutions
If a student changes their DLI (the school) mid-program, they must follow IRCC rules for updating or re-applying. Minors should ensure their LOA and permit align with their exact school.
Step-by-step application process for minors
1. Prepare necessary documents
- LOA from your DLI
- Valid passport/travel document
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, GICs, sponsorship letters)
- Custodianship Declaration (IMM 5646), if applicable
- Quebec applicants: CAQ (Certificate of Acceptance)
- Parent/guardian identification and proof of relationship
- Biometrics (fingerprints & photo) if required
- Completed study-permit forms for minors
2. Submit the application
- Apply online through the official Government of Canada study permit portal managed by IRCC.
- Pay the application fee and (if applicable) biometrics fee.
- Upload all supporting documents as instructed.
- Provide the Canadian address where the minor will live (homestay, boarding, custodian’s residence).
3. After submission
- Track application status and respond to any IRCC requests.
- When approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction and instructions for the study permit at the port of entry.
- Coordinate with the custodian/guardian before travel.
4. On-arrival and in-Canada obligations
- Keep the study permit valid and apply for extensions ~90 days before expiry.
- Attend the DLI named on your LOA/permit.
- Maintain proper custodianship/guardian arrangements.
- Follow Canadian laws, school rules, and permit conditions.
- Verify requirements if changing schools/programs.
Updated policy notes for 2025–26 affecting minors
National study-permit cap & attestation letters (PAL/TAL)
Canada introduced a national cap on study permits for 2025. K-12 minors are generally exempt from the Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter requirement, but early application is still important due to overall processing pressures.
Increased proof of funds
Effective September 2025, proof-of-funds baselines rose. Families should plan for more robust funding documentation for 2026 intakes.
Compliance reminders
DLIs verify acceptance and attendance. Changing schools may require added steps; ensure you follow IRCC guidance to avoid status issues.
Financial planning & approximate costs for minor students
Tuition and living cost estimates (guide only)
- Ontario: Tuition CAD 20,000–35,000/year; Living CAD 15,000–25,000/year
- British Columbia: Tuition CAD 18,000–30,000/year; Living CAD 14,000–22,000/year
- Quebec: Tuition CAD 10,000–25,000/year; Living CAD 15,000–25,000/year
- Alberta: Tuition CAD 15,000–28,000/year; Living CAD 13,000–20,000/year
For updated data, you can review Statistics Canada’s education and living cost reports.
Additional costs
- Health insurance: CAD 700–1,500/year
- Books/supplies: CAD 1,000–2,000/year
- Transportation & personal expenses: variable
- Custodianship/guardian services: if arranged privately
Scholarships & financial aid
Look for merit-based, need-based, and school-specific awards. You can also explore scholarship options for Indian students or funding opportunities for Pakistani learners applying to Canadian schools. Deadlines can be early, so begin the search alongside permit prep.
Living in Canada as a minor international student
Accommodation
- Homestay for cultural immersion and supervision
- Boarding/dorms at select schools
- Custodian/guardian residence where required
Health insurance
Coverage is mandatory. Some provinces include international students; many require private plans. See a detailed guide on health coverage options for overseas students in Canada to plan ahead.
Cultural adjustment & support
Expect orientation programs, ESL/FSL support, counselling, and student clubs. Participation helps language growth and settlement.
Safety, rights & responsibilities
- Strong child-protection laws and school standards
- Keep emergency contacts handy (custodian, school, local services)
- Respect local norms and school rules
Study permit vs. “minor study visa” – quick comparison
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Feature
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Study permit (all ages)
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Minor (under majority) special rules
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Eligibility
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All ages, DLI required
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Added custodianship/guardian requirements
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Permit required?
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Yes for >6 months
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Similar, with limited exemptions
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Documentation
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LOA, funds, passport
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Above + IMM 5646 when needed
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Purpose
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Study in Canada
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Study with child-welfare safeguards
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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do minors always need a study permit?
Not always. Programs ≤6 months or minors already in Canada with a parent holding valid work/study status may be exempt, though applying is often wise for flexibility.
How long does processing take?
Varies by country/season. With the 2025 cap and higher documentation standards, apply early and allow several months.
Can a minor extend a study permit?
Yes. Apply ~90 days before expiry. Keep the DLI valid and include an updated LOA.
What if conditions are violated?
Non-compliance (e.g., not attending the DLI, changing institutions without proper steps) can lead to cancellation and future application issues.
Can minors work?
Primary/secondary students typically do not have work rights under a minor’s study permit. Work rules generally apply to post-secondary.
Conclusion
For 2026 entry, securing the Canada Minor Study Visa (study permit for a minor) offers an exciting, structured path to quality education in a safe, multicultural setting. Focus on four essentials: a valid DLI acceptance, complete custodianship/guardian arrangements, sufficient proof of funds under the updated rules, and early, accurate filing. With those in place, and by following your school’s and IRCC’s guidance, families can set up a smooth, successful study experience for their minor student in Canada.