Schooling Visa Canada with Parents Requirements

Editorial Team

Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system, making it a popular destination for international students. Many families seek to move to Canada to provide their children with better educational opportunities. When considering relocating to Canada for educational purposes, it is crucial to understand the specific requirements and processes involved in obtaining a schooling visa for children and accompanying visas for parents. This comprehensive guide will explore the requirements, application process, and key considerations for securing a schooling visa in Canada for children and their parents.

Understanding the Schooling Visa for Canada

What is a Schooling Visa?

A schooling visa in Canada allows children from foreign countries to study in Canadian elementary and secondary schools. This type of visa falls under the broader category of a study permit. It is essential for parents who wish to accompany their children to understand the additional visa requirements and processes involved.

Why Choose Canada for Schooling?

Canada offers a safe, inclusive, and high-quality education system. With its multicultural environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse curriculum, Canadian schools provide an excellent platform for academic and personal growth. Furthermore, studying in Canada can open doors to higher education opportunities within the country.

Eligibility Requirements for a Schooling Visa

Child’s Eligibility

  1. Acceptance Letter: The child must have an acceptance letter from a recognized Canadian school. This letter confirms that the child has been accepted into an educational institution that meets Canadian immigration standards.

  2. Proof of Financial Support: The parents or guardians must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation for the child.

  3. Genuine Intent to Study: The child must show a genuine intent to study in Canada. This involves explaining the educational plans and future goals in the application.

  4. Medical Examination: Depending on the child’s country of residence, a medical examination may be required to ensure the child meets health standards.

Parents’ Eligibility

  1. Visitor Visa or Super Visa: Parents accompanying their child may need to apply for a visitor visa or a super visa, which allows longer stays. The super visa is particularly beneficial for parents who wish to stay in Canada for extended periods without having to renew their status frequently.

  2. Proof of Relationship: Documentation proving the parental relationship with the child, such as birth certificates or legal guardianship papers, is required.

  3. Financial Stability: Parents must demonstrate financial stability to support their stay in Canada. This includes showing sufficient funds to cover living expenses.

  4. Health Insurance: Parents must obtain health insurance to cover their medical needs during their stay in Canada. This requirement ensures that parents do not burden the Canadian healthcare system.

Application Process for the Schooling Visa

Step-by-Step Guide for the Child’s Study Permit

  1. Obtain an Acceptance Letter: Secure an acceptance letter from a recognized Canadian school. This letter is a prerequisite for the study permit application.

  2. Prepare Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including the acceptance letter, proof of financial support, proof of relationship, and any additional documents required by the specific visa office handling the application.

  3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form for a study permit, available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete.

  4. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the required application fee for the study permit. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

  5. Submit Biometrics: Depending on the child’s country of residence, biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) may be required. Schedule an appointment at a local visa application center to provide biometrics.

  6. Medical Examination: If required, schedule and complete a medical examination with a panel physician approved by the Canadian government.

  7. Submit the Application: Submit the completed application along with all required documents through the IRCC website or at a visa application center.

  8. Wait for Processing: The processing time for study permits varies. It is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended start date of the school program.

  9. Receive the Study Permit: If the application is approved, the child will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. The actual study permit will be issued at the Canadian border upon arrival.

Step-by-Step Guide for the Parents’ Visa

  1. Determine the Type of Visa Needed: Decide whether to apply for a visitor visa or a super visa based on the length of stay and specific requirements.

  2. Prepare Required Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of financial support, proof of relationship with the child, health insurance, and any other documents required by the specific visa office.

  3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form for a visitor visa or super visa, available on the IRCC website. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete.

  4. Pay the Application Fee: Pay the required application fee for the chosen visa type. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

  5. Submit Biometrics: If required, schedule an appointment at a local visa application center to provide biometrics.

  6. Submit the Application: Submit the completed application along with all required documents through the IRCC website or at a visa application center.

  7. Wait for Processing: The processing time for visitor visas and super visas varies. It is advisable to apply well in advance of the intended travel date.

  8. Receive the Visa: If the application is approved, the parents will receive their visa, which will be affixed to their passport.

Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds

Tuition Fees and Living Expenses

  1. Tuition Fees: The cost of tuition varies depending on the school and the child’s grade level. On average, tuition fees for international students in Canadian public schools range from CAD 8,000 to CAD 14,000 per year. Private schools may have higher tuition fees.

  2. Living Expenses: The cost of living in Canada varies by city. Parents must show proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses for themselves and their child. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily expenses. On average, living expenses range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 per year for the child.

  3. Return Transportation: Parents must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover return transportation costs for themselves and their child. This can be shown through savings, investments, or sponsorship letters.

Acceptable Forms of Financial Proof

  1. Bank Statements: Recent bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.

  2. Income Proof: Proof of regular income, such as employment letters, pay stubs, or business income statements.

  3. Savings Accounts: Documentation of savings accounts with adequate balances to support the stay in Canada.

  4. Sponsorship Letters: If a family member or friend in Canada is sponsoring the stay, a sponsorship letter along with their proof of income and financial stability.

  5. Investments: Documentation of investments, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate, demonstrating financial stability.

Health and Insurance Requirements

Medical Examination

  1. Panel Physician: If required, the medical examination must be conducted by a panel physician approved by the Canadian government. A list of approved physicians is available on the IRCC website.

  2. Medical Report: The panel physician will conduct a thorough examination and submit the medical report directly to IRCC. The report includes a medical history review, physical examination, and any necessary tests.

  3. Validity: Medical examination results are typically valid for 12 months. If the study permit or visa application process takes longer, a new examination may be required.

Health Insurance

  1. Private Health Insurance: Parents and their children must obtain private health insurance to cover their medical needs during their stay in Canada. This is mandatory, as they are not eligible for provincial health coverage.

  2. Coverage: Health insurance must cover emergency medical care, hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription medications, and other necessary medical services.

  3. Insurance Providers: Many insurance companies in Canada offer health insurance plans for international students and their families. It is advisable to compare different plans and choose one that best meets the needs of the family.

Preparing for Arrival in Canada

Pre-Departure Checklist

  1. Travel Documents: Ensure all travel documents, including passports, visas, and study permits, are valid and readily accessible.

  2. Health Insurance: Obtain health insurance coverage before departure and keep the insurance documents handy.

  3. Accommodation: Arrange for temporary or permanent accommodation in Canada. This can be done through school housing, rental properties, or staying with family or friends.

  4. Finances: Ensure access to sufficient funds for initial expenses upon arrival in Canada. It is advisable to carry some Canadian currency for immediate needs.

  5. School Enrollment: Confirm the child’s enrollment in the Canadian school and prepare any additional documentation required by the school.

Arrival Procedures

  1. Port of Entry: Upon arrival in Canada, present the POE Letter of Introduction, passport, visa, and other required documents to the immigration officer.

  2. Study Permit Issuance: The immigration officer will issue the actual study permit for the child at the port of entry.

  3. Customs Declaration: Complete the customs declaration form and declare any goods or funds as required by Canadian law.

  4. Transportation: Arrange transportation from the airport to the accommodation. Many airports offer shuttle services, taxis, or public transportation options.

Settling in Canada

Orientation and Integration

  1. School Orientation: Attend the school’s orientation program to familiarize with the school’s facilities, staff, and academic expectations. This helps the child adjust to the new environment and make new friends.

  2. Community Services: Utilize community services available for newcomers, such as settlement agencies, language classes, and cultural integration programs. These services provide valuable support and resources for a smooth transition.

  3. Healthcare Registration: Register with a local healthcare provider and ensure all family members have access to medical care. It is important to understand how to use the health insurance plan and find local healthcare facilities.

  4. Banking and Finances: Open a bank account in Canada to manage finances efficiently. Most banks offer special accounts and services for newcomers.

  5. Social Integration: Encourage participation in community activities, clubs, and events to build a social network and integrate into Canadian society.

Academic Success

  1. Parental Involvement: Stay actively involved in the child’s education by attending parent-teacher meetings, monitoring academic progress, and supporting homework and study routines.

  2. Extracurricular Activities: Encourage participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, and clubs, to foster personal development and social skills.

  3. Language Support: If the child requires additional language support, explore options for English or French language classes to improve proficiency.

  4. Counseling Services: Utilize school counseling services for academic and personal support. Counselors can assist with academic planning, emotional well-being, and career guidance.

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Maintaining Legal Status

  1. Valid Permits: Ensure that the child’s study permit and parents’ visas are valid throughout the stay in Canada. Monitor expiration dates and apply for renewals well in advance.

  2. Study Permit Conditions: Comply with the conditions of the study permit, such as attending school regularly and making academic progress.

  3. Visitor Visa Conditions: Parents must adhere to the conditions of their visitor visa or super visa, including maintaining health insurance and not engaging in unauthorized work.

Renewals and Extensions

  1. Study Permit Renewal: If the child’s study permit is nearing expiration, apply for a renewal at least 30 days before it expires. The application process involves submitting updated documents and paying the renewal fee.

  2. Visitor Visa Extension: Parents can apply for an extension of their visitor visa if they wish to stay longer. The extension application should be submitted before the current visa expires.

  3. Super Visa Extension: The super visa allows parents to stay for up to two years without renewing their status. If they wish to stay longer, they must apply for an extension before the two-year period ends.

Legal Assistance

  1. Immigration Consultant: Consider consulting with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer to navigate complex immigration matters and ensure compliance with Canadian immigration laws.

  2. Legal Rights: Understand the legal rights and obligations as temporary residents in Canada. This includes knowing the rights to education, healthcare, and legal protection.

Conclusion

Obtaining a schooling visa for Canada along with visas for accompanying parents involves meticulous planning and understanding of the requirements and processes. From securing an acceptance letter from a Canadian school to demonstrating financial stability and obtaining health insurance, each step requires careful attention to detail.

 

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