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Canadian authorities will tighten measures against immigration fraud with new economic sanctions that could reach up to 1.5 million dollars, one of the most severe actions implemented by the country to protect those seeking to obtain a visa, permanent residence, citizenship, or another immigration benefit.
The new provisions are part of the Canadian government's efforts to strengthen the integrity of its immigration and citizenship systems, as well as to combat deceptive practices and abuses committed by consultants, representatives, and others who offer paid immigration advice.
Canada increases pressure against immigration fraud
The new rules apply both to authorized representatives, including licensed immigration consultants and lawyers, and to individuals who offer immigration advice or representation without proper authorization.
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Under the new provisions, the government will be able to impose administrative fines for various infractions related to immigration representation.
What are the new fines for violating immigration rules?
Among the planned sanctions, the following stand out:
5,000 Canadian dollars for providing paid immigration advice or representation without being authorized.
15,000 Canadian dollars for deliberately submitting false or misleading information on behalf of an applicant or helping someone to do so.
Additional sanctions when an application is approved using fraudulent or misleading information.
Higher fines for repeat offenders.
Authorities noted that penalties could accumulate up to a maximum of 1.5 million dollars for all combined infractions.
They will publish the names of offenders
As part of the transparency strategy, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will release the names of sanctioned individuals and details of the committed infractions on its website.
The goal is to warn the public about dishonest representatives and help future applicants identify immigration service providers who have broken the law.
This public registry is expected to be operational during 2027, once the first sanctions under the new scheme begin to be imposed.
How to avoid becoming a victim of immigration fraud?
Canadian authorities recommend that those planning immigration or citizenship processes verify that the person advising them is duly authorized before making any payment.
This recommendation is especially relevant for foreign workers, international students, and people interested in immigrating to Canada, who are often frequent targets of scammers promising guaranteed visas or permits.
Before hiring immigration services, it is important to confirm that the representative is among the professionals authorized by the Canadian government.
The minister defends the new measures
Canada's Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, stated that everyone who wants to build a future in the country deserves to receive reliable and accurate advice.
The official noted that these measures seek to protect applicants against fraud and malpractice, while ensuring consequences for those who violate the rules. She also highlighted that the majority of professionals who offer immigration services act legally, but those who break the rules will face sanctions.
Key data on the new rules
The draft regulation was published for public consultation on December 21, 2024, in the Canada Gazette.
The final version of the regulation is scheduled to be published on November 4, 2026.
Individuals who believe they were sanctioned incorrectly will be able to request a formal review of the penalty through the procedure established by the authorities.
What migrants should know
The new measures reflect Canada's effort to combat immigration fraud and protect those seeking study, work, or residency opportunities in the country. With fines that can reach 1.5 million dollars, the publication of offenders' names, and greater controls on immigration representatives, authorities seek to discourage deceptive practices and strengthen confidence in the Canadian immigration system.
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