FAQs

What is Homestay?

Homestay is a term used to describe a living arrangement where an international or Canadian student is welcomed into a family's home and included in day to day life with the family. Families provide room and board for the student during their stay while including their student in all family activities. This is different from a student rental arrangement.

Where do students come from?

Students may come from anywhere in the World to study in Niagara. However, the majority of visiting students come from South America, Asia, and Europe.

Why do students come to the Niagara Region?

Students come to the Niagara Region to attend various different educational institutions anywhere from Grimsby to Port Colborne and everywhere else in between. Students may come anytime during the school year as well as summer. In addition to studying, they enjoy visiting exciting tourist destinations such as Niagara Falls and Toronto.

What type of family can participate in the Homestay Program?

Any family, including parent(s) with or without children living at home, singles or couples who have a sincere interest in helping an international student learn and live in our culture.

Why open your home to a stranger?

By welcoming an international student to your home you will help the student to experience life in Canada by being part of your family and participating in your family activities. The student will share with you and your family their own culture and what their life is like in their own country.

Why choose Hospitalité Canada?

Although there are other homestay providers active in the Niagara Region, Hospitalité Canada brings almost 30 years of experience within the sector, during which its director and staff have gained valuable knowledge of best practices. Hospitalité Canada is also able to provide numerous hosting experiences to families each year due to the many programs they serve in partnership with school boards and local private schools.

Is the family paid for hosting?

Yes, we believe that families should not be on the hook for the cost of having an additional member in their home. Fair compensation is provided based on the length of the students’ stay at the home.