Canada is preparing new regulatory powers to tackle fraud and misconduct among immigration consultants, responding to growing concerns about immigrant exploitation and a series of recent tribunal findings.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab is drafting regulations to strengthen the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), following multiple cases involving job-selling schemes, falsified documents and improper fees charged to vulnerable applicants. The federal government wants to give the College clearer investigative authority, stronger discipline tools and the ability to secure compensation for victims.
The proposed changes outline expanded investigation and complaints processes and a new compensation fund for clients harmed by dishonest representatives. Separate amendments published in the Canada Gazette would allow the College to impose penalties of up to $50,000 per contravention and issue restitution through the compensation program.
Ottawa is also considering administrative monetary penalties for anyone, authorized or unauthorized who provides unlawful immigration advice. Under the proposal, fines could reach $1.5 million in the most serious cases of misrepresentation, along with public naming of violators.
Recent disciplinary actions highlight why reform is underway. In January, several consultants had their licences suspended for misconduct involving improper fees, inadequate oversight of client accounts, and breaches of federal legislation and College regulations. In many cases, consultants were ordered to complete practice-management training, pay fines and costs, or provide restitution to victims.
Regulators and advocates say stronger tools are needed to protect newcomers, who often rely heavily on consultants when navigating complex immigration pathways. The government has not announced when the new measures will take effect, but officials say the goal is to ensure greater accountability and restore trust in Canada’s immigration system.
