Who may need IMM 5646

IRCC’s guidance explains that minor children studying in Canada may need a custodian: a responsible adult in Canada who will support and care for the child as needed. To appoint one, the custodian and the parents or legal guardians complete the official declaration and submit it with the study permit application when required.

Age rules and officer requests depend on the student’s age and circumstances. Do not assume that the form is unnecessary because a school has accepted the student or arranged accommodation. Review IRCC’s current minor-child guidance and the personalized or visa-office checklist for the application.

Preparation checklist

1. Download a fresh form. Save IMM 5646 from the official IRCC page and open it using the software recommended there. Government forms can be updated.
2. Coordinate the details. The minor’s name, date of birth, school and Canadian address should match across both sections and the study permit application.
3. Confirm the custodian’s eligibility. Use the criteria printed on the current form and in IRCC guidance. Gather the status and identity evidence the application checklist requires.
4. Identify every legal guardian. Confirm who must complete or consent to the parent or guardian section. Bring custody, guardianship or court documents if they affect who can sign.
5. Keep signatures blank. Each declarant should sign only in front of the authorized official completing that section.
6. Check the final package. Ensure both completed sections, supporting evidence and any requested translations are clear and consistent before submission.

Do not change the official wording, remove pages or combine details from different versions. If a field does not fit the situation, obtain direction from IRCC or an authorized immigration representative rather than improvising.

Signing and notarization

The custodian in Canada completes the custodian declaration and signs before an authorized official. The parents or legal guardians complete their section and sign before an authorized official where they are located. The current form identifies the required type of official; local rules outside Canada may affect who can perform the act.

For an Ontario appointment, the person signing should bring the unsigned section, valid original government-issued identification and any supporting documents needed to confirm the details. The notary identifies the signer, administers the declaration and completes the notarial section. The notary does not select the custodian, assess the study permit application or guarantee IRCC acceptance.

If a signer does not understand the form’s language, contact the notary before the appointment. An interpreter or translated explanation may be necessary, and the notary must be satisfied that the signer understands the declaration. Never send a blank signed page to another person for later completion.