Canada Implements Measures Against Fraudulent Immigration Consultants
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Latest News on Immigration Consultant Regulation
Protecting Vulnerable Individuals Through New Legislation
May 24, 2019—Brampton, ON – The Canadian government is taking steps to clamp down on dishonest immigration consultants. These measures aim to enhance oversight, improve enforcement, and boost accountability, ensuring protection for vulnerable individuals from unscrupulous practices.
The 2019 Budget Implementation Act proposes a new framework to regulate immigration and citizenship consultants. This includes establishing the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants as the primary regulatory body. The College will be empowered to conduct thorough oversight and investigations and will have the means to address and penalize fraudulent activities among consultants.
Consumer protection is central to the College’s mission. The legislation would allow the College to scrutinize consultants’ premises during investigations and seek court injunctions against unauthorized practitioners.
To deter illegal conduct, the legislation would increase penalties and grant new powers to the Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship for enforcing compliance with immigration laws.
The government plans to partner with the College to enforce mandatory training for consultants, ensure fee transparency, streamline complaint processes, and establish a victim compensation fund.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns will be launched, including community outreach through visa offices overseas, to warn potential immigrants about fraudulent consulting practices.
Voices on the New Measures
“These changes will protect both Canadians and prospective newcomers, as well as the many ethical consultants. It’s crucial to end the era of those exploiting vulnerable individuals.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Unethical consultants offer fraudulent services, charging excessive fees. The proposed regulatory changes are a step in the right direction.” – Naveed Chaudhry, Executive Director, Peel Multicultural Council
Key Facts About the Initiative
The 2019 budget allocates $51.9 million over five years, with an ongoing $10.1 million annually. This funding supports compliance, deters criminal activity, introduces penalties, and enhances public awareness.
The Canada Border Services Agency will receive $10 million to investigate unauthorized representatives and organized fraud.
Resources are also allocated for public awareness and outreach, including translations, social media messaging, and informational displays at various locations.
Further Information
Additional Resources
- Using an immigration and citizenship representative
- Important information on using immigration or citizenship consultants
Contact Information
For Media Inquiries Only
Lise Jolicoeur
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs on Fraudulent Immigration Consultants
What is the role of the new College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants?
The College will regulate consultants, ensuring they follow professional and ethical standards to protect the public from fraud.
How will the new legislation impact penalties for unauthorized consultants?
Penalties will be doubled, and new administrative penalties will be introduced to enforce compliance with immigration laws.
What measures will be taken to raise public awareness?
Efforts include outreach to communities, translations of key messages, social media campaigns, and informational displays in various locations.
Why is this initiative necessary?
The initiative aims to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation by dishonest consultants, ensuring fair and ethical immigration services.
How can the public report fraudulent consulting practices?
A formal complaint system will be established, allowing individuals to report unethical behavior by consultants.
Take action today to ensure you’re working with authorized immigration consultants.
