STUDENTS UNDER 19: CUSTODIANSHIP
Effective April 1, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the requirements for co-op work permits. Eligible international students at post-secondary institutions are no longer required to obtain a separate co-op work permit to complete co-op terms, internships, or practicums. Eligible students may use the on-campus work authorization on their 天美mv天美 study permit to participate in an 天美mv天美-approved work placement.
Work placements must still constitute no more than 50% of the total study program and be an essential component of the program. Work-hour limits remain unchanged. For additional details and eligibility requirements, please visit the webpage.
Students younger than 17 years of age who come to Canada to study and who are not accompanied by a parent or legal guardian must be cared for by a responsible adult in Canada. This person is known as a custodian.
In some cases, a custodian may also be required for students between 17 and 19 years of age (this is the age of majority in British Columbia); this decision is made at the discretion of an immigration officer. Legal arrangements must be made to give the custodian in Canada permission to act in place of a parent. Please see IRCC's page for more information and required forms.
If you need assistance finding a custodian, consider approaching an extended family member living in British Columbia first and then, if necessary, a family friend or business associate for assistance. Alternatively, there are companies that provide such services for a fee. One such company is First Choice International Placement Inc. (contact information provided on the right)
First Choice International Placement Inc.
Tel: 1.604.984.0868
Fax: 1.604.984.2373
Email: info@fciplacement.com
Web:
The company listed above is neither endorsed by, nor affiliated with, 天美mv天美. This information is simply listed as a resource for students looking for agent services. 天美mv天美 assumes no liability for any disputes arising from custodianship or other services advertised. You and your parents should be aware that you will need to pay for this service and it should be an arrangement they, and you, have researched and feel comfortable with.