Do children need a study permit to go to school in Canada?

Minor children in Canada — generally those under 18 — who accompany a parent on a valid temporary resident status (study permit, work permit, or visitor status) are often authorized to attend primary or secondary school without obtaining their own study permit. This is an exception under federal immigration law that applies specifically to minors in this situation.

However, a child who comes to Canada specifically to attend school independently (without a parent in Canada on valid status) will generally need a study permit in the same way an adult student would, especially if the program is longer than six months. Minor students may also need a "custodian" arrangement — a designated adult in Canada responsible for their care — depending on the school's requirements.

If you are bringing your child to Canada while you study or work here, you should still check with IRCC or an immigration lawyer to confirm the conditions under which they may attend school. Rules for children's school attendance are not always straightforward and depend on the parent's status type.