What are a custodian’s responsibilities, and what decisions can they make in an emergency?

A custodian acts locally for parents in day-to-day care and as an emergency contact. Duties can include communicating with the school, signing routine school documents, arranging urgent medical care and accompanying the student when necessary.

A custodian is not automatically a legal guardian who can make every significant immigration, financial or long-term welfare decision. Parents should be consulted for major decisions, but the custodian must be able to make reasonable immediate care arrangements if parents cannot be reached. Set out the emergency-contact and decision-making scope in writing.

What to verify

A study permit, TRV/eTA, PAL/TAL and CAQ (where applicable) are separate requirements; check the student’s age, status and custodianship arrangement.

Planning advice

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