Notarizing an IMM 5646 Custodianship Declaration in Canada generally costs between $30 and $100 CAD. This straightforward process is legally required for minor international students studying in Canada, and can be completed by a Notary Public, a local lawyer, or a Commissioner of Oaths in your province.
Sending a child to study in Canada is a massive milestone for any family. Whether your teenager is enrolling in a high school in Calgary, a boarding academy in British Columbia, or a language centre in Ontario, Canadian law requires strict supervision for minors. To ensure the student’s safety, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates that a legal custodian be appointed. This is done using the IMM 5646 Custodianship Declaration form.
This critical government document has two pages: one signed by the parents in their home country, and one signed by the appointed custodian living in Canada. 📍 Both pages must be formally notarized to be legally valid. Many parents and newly appointed custodians wonder how to complete this step and how much it will cost. In this guide, we will break down the notarization process, the provincial differences, and the exact costs involved in Canada.
Step-by-Step Process for Notarizing an IMM 5646 Form in Canada
Notarizing a document is a quick and highly structured legal process. It ensures that the person signing the document is exactly who they claim to be, protecting the minor child from fraud. Here is how the appointed Canadian custodian must proceed.
Step 1: Downloading and Preparing the IMM 5646
The custodian must first download the official IMM 5646 form directly from the IRCC website. 📝 You should fill out all your personal details, including your address, Canadian citizenship or Permanent Resident status, and the student’s information. Critically important: Do not sign the document yet. It must only be signed in the physical or virtual presence of the notary.
Step 2: Finding a Notary or Lawyer in Your Province
In Canada, you have a few options for notarization. You can visit a Notary Public, a Commissioner of Oaths, or an immigration lawyer. In provinces like British Columbia and Quebec, notaries have distinct legal societies and are very common. In Ontario or Alberta, many people simply walk into a local law firm or a dedicated notary office. Virtual commissioning (online notarization) is also now legal in many provinces.
Step 3: Attending the Appointment with Valid ID
When you attend your appointment, you must bring the unsigned form and at least two pieces of valid, government-issued identification. 👤 Your primary ID should be a Canadian passport, a provincial driver’s licence, or a Permanent Resident card. The notary will inspect your ID to verify your identity.
Step 4: Swearing the Oath and Signing
The notary will ask you to swear an oath or make a solemn affirmation that the information in the Custodianship Declaration is completely true. Once you confirm, you will sign the document. The notary will then apply their official seal, stamp, and signature. The original, notarized document is then returned to you to be uploaded with the student’s study permit application.
How Much Does it Cost in Canada?
The fees for notarizing a single document are usually quite modest, but they can vary depending on the professional you choose and the province you live in. As of May 2026, here are the average costs across Canada.
| Type of Professional | Estimated Cost (CAD) per Signature |
|---|---|
| Standalone Notary Public Office | $30 to $60 |
| Local Law Firm / Lawyer | $50 to $100 |
| Online / Virtual Notary Service | $35 to $75 |
| Municipal Commissioner of Oaths | $15 to $35 (Often found at City Hall) |
- Second Page Costs: Remember that the parents in the home country must also notarize their half of the form. They will pay the local notary fees applicable in their own country.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The actual appointment to notarize an IMM 5646 is incredibly fast, usually taking only 10 to 15 minutes. Most local law firms or notary offices in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver accept walk-ins or can book an appointment within 1 to 2 business days. If you choose an online virtual notary, you can often complete the process on the exact same day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a Commissioner of Oaths instead of a Notary?
Yes. IRCC generally accepts the IMM 5646 if it is signed by a Commissioner of Oaths in Canada. However, if the document needs to be used outside of Canada for any reason, a Notary Public is strongly recommended because their seal is internationally recognized.
Can the parents and custodian use the same notary?
Usually, no. Because the parents reside outside of Canada and the custodian resides in Canada, they will visit different notaries in their respective countries. The two separately notarized pages are then combined and submitted together to IRCC.
Does IRCC require the original physical copy?
When applying for the study permit online, you only need to upload a high-quality colour scan of the notarized document. However, the student should carry the original physical copy with them when travelling, as Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers may ask to see it.
Do I need an immigration lawyer to review the form?
It is not legally required. The form is straightforward. However, if there are complex family law issues, such as divorced parents sharing custody, a lawyer can help ensure the correct parent signs the authorization to prevent visa delays.
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