We are proud to live in an open, welcoming society and believe that diversity strengthens the country. Promotion of diversity in Canada includes the dimensions of race, ethnicity, religion, physical and mental abilities, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, image and opinions. In keeping with that, Casa Toronto Hosts reflect the Canadian population.

Hosts can be individuals, single parent families, two parent families, couples with no children, people with pets, young people, older adults. They have a range of occupations or are retired, and have a variety of cultural and ethnic origins, abilities, gender identities, and sexual orientations. The residence may be a condo, an apartment, a town home or a detached home, located anywhere across the city.

They are Canadian residents that may be Indigenous, first generation Canadians or multi-generational Canadians. English may or may not be their first language, however the language spoken in the home when students are present is English.

Each Host is unique, however the one important thing all Hosts have in common, is their desire and willingness to open up their homes to international students and make them feel comfortable, secure, and part of the family so guests can have the opportunity to experience life in Canada.

• An environment that is:
  • welcoming
  • nurturing
  • supportive
  • clean
  • positive
  • healthy
  • safe
  • comfortable
• Nutritious daily meals
• Time to engage with the student at least 4 times a week over meals and general family life
• Opportunity for students to practice English through conversation
• Common living space and bathroom the student can share
• Wi-Fi
• Residence no more than a 60-minute transit ride to schools in Toronto
• Willingness to do laundry for the student, or allow them access to laundry facilities
• Private Bedroom for the student that includes:
  • Desk
  • Chair
  • Lamp
  • Chest of drawers, shelves or closet
  • Bed and bedding
  • Window
  • Reasonable lighting

Our Hosts create a Host Profile as part of the application process. The students also provide us with a profile about themselves and their wants and needs. This, combined with Casa Toronto getting to know you better, will help us match students that will be the best fit for you hosts and your family. We consider interests of the host and student with profile and preference questions. Do not worry, a student will never show up at your door unannounced! We unfailingly ask you first in advance if you are able to accommodate based on the student profile and timing and length of stay. You always have the option to decline.

We take great pride in finding a match that is a fit for both the student and the host as we know the better the match the greater the experience for all involved.

Our students range in age from underage to mature adults.

Some students may stay 2 weeks while others will stay a full year. The average stay, however, is one to two months.

Casa Toronto provides a variety of accommodation services for international students, with Homestay being one option. We have proudly provided accommodation to over 15,000 students from over 30 countries around the world. Our team is built of people that love what they do and are passionate about being a part in helping students achieve their dream. We value the relationships we have with our host partners and continuously strive to provide excellence in customer service. Casa Toronto provides experienced, professional guidance and support to all our hosts with consistent communication. We work hard at finding the best match for our students and hosts.

• Opportunity to practice English
• Supportive, nurturing and safe environment for their first trip abroad
• Gain a unique perspective into Canadian life living with a local resident
• Meals provided
• A broader world perspective

One of the main reasons students choose Homestay is for the opportunity to practice English.

English does not need to be the Hosts first language, but English does need to be spoken fluently when the student is present.

There are a few steps in becoming a host, and we have made the process as easy as possible.

Step 1: Complete online application
Step 2: Schedule a Home Visit
Step 3: Home Visit
Step 4: Start Hosting

We are available for support through the entire application process whenever need us. If you have any questions please call us at (416) 546-1556 or email us at [email protected].

All information provided on the application is protected by Canada's Protection of Personal Information Act. Our privacy policy is available on this website or by written request.

You can apply here.