Is a custodian the same person as a homestay family, and how can I assess accommodation safety?

A custodian and homestay provider may be the same person or organization, or may be arranged separately. For example, a custodian may handle legal and emergency matters while a specialist organization arranges homestay.

Whichever arrangement is used, confirm that adult household members have completed criminal-record and Vulnerable Sector checks and that the home is followed up through regular visits. A video meeting before arrival and feedback from former students can also help families assess the placement.

What to verify

Set out the roles of parents, custodian, homestay provider, school and adviser in writing, and keep routine reporting separate from emergency procedures.

Planning advice

Use official school and IRCC information, maintain one consistent timeline across all documents and keep written confirmation of important conditions.