In the first week your child should get a Canadian phone number, set up a bank account with a parent or custodian's help, get a transit card, confirm health insurance, register at the school, and save the custodian's and homestay's numbers. Keep the study permit and passport safe and make copies.
Key facts
- Study permit: issued at the port of entry, check the details before leaving the counter
- Phone: a Canadian number makes school and emergencies easier
- Bank: minors usually need a parent or guardian to open an account
- Transit: in the Greater Toronto Area, a PRESTO card
At the airport
The study permit is issued by a border officer when your child lands. Before leaving the counter, check that the name, date of birth, school and expiry date are correct. Mistakes are much easier to fix on the spot. Keep the permit with the passport.
Phone and contacts
- Get a Canadian SIM or eSIM so the school, homestay and custodian can call
- Save the custodian, homestay, school office and emergency numbers
- Remember that 911 is the emergency number in Canada
Money
Banks usually ask for a parent or guardian to open an account for a minor. A student account with a debit card is the simplest way to pay for daily costs. Agree on a monthly budget before arrival.
Getting around
In the Greater Toronto Area, a PRESTO card works on most local transit, and many systems offer student fares. Walk the route to school with the homestay host or custodian before the first day.
Health insurance
Check what insurance the school requires and carry the insurance card at all times. Some provinces cover international students and some do not, so private insurance is common.
At school
- Finish registration and pick up the timetable
- Meet the guidance counsellor and the international student contact
- Join one club or team in the first month, which helps with homesickness
How we help
Airport pickup and arrival orientation are available as extras with our custodianship, so your child is met at the gate and settled in during the first week.
Sources: IRCC, Study permits: Guidelines on minor children. This article is general information and not legal advice. For your situation, talk to our team.
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