The Canadian government has introduced new penalties of up to CAD1.5 million($1.07million) for immigration consultants and other representatives found providing unauthorized immigration services or deliberately submitting false information on behalf of applicants.<\/p>\n
The new regulations are aimed at protecting foreign nationals from immigration fraud and strengthening accountability among individuals offering paid immigration and citizenship services.<\/p>\n
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the rules apply to both licensed and unlicensed representatives, including those operating outside Canada.<\/p>\n
The measures could affect immigration agents serving Nigerian applicants, as the regulations extend to individuals providing paid immigration services regardless of their location.<\/p>\n
Under the new framework, individuals providing paid immigration or citizenship advice without proper authorization face penalties starting at CAD 5,000.<\/p>\n
The Canadian government also plans to publish the names of penalized representatives and details of their violations in an online registry expected to launch in 2027.<\/p>\n
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said the measures would help protect applicants from exploitation while holding dishonest representatives accountable.<\/p>\n
The regulations also have implications for employers managing immigration applications internally.<\/p>\n
Companies have been advised to review whether employees handling immigration processes are authorized to provide paid immigration advice or representation.<\/p>\n