Canada has introduced new penalties of up to $1.5 million for immigration and citizenship representatives who provide unauthorized services or engage in fraudulent practices.
The new rules, which took effect on October 28, 2026, are aimed at protecting applicants from fraud, exploitation, and misleading advice while strengthening the country’s immigration system.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the regulations apply to all paid immigration and citizenship representatives, including licensed consultants, lawyers, other authorized professionals, and individuals operating without proper authorization.
Under the new regulations, individuals providing paid immigration or citizenship advice without authorization can face a fine of $5,000. Those who knowingly submit false or misleading information on behalf of applicants, or help applicants do so, can be fined $15,000.
Additional penalties may apply if an application is approved based on false or misleading information. Fines will also increase for repeated violations, with the total amount reaching up to $1.5 million for all violations combined.
The Canadian government will also publicly identify representatives who violate these rules. IRCC plans to launch an online registry in 2027 that will publish the names of penalized individuals along with details of their violations.
The registry is intended to help applicants identify dishonest representatives before seeking their services.
Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, said the measures would help protect people seeking reliable immigration advice and ensure that those who break the law are held accountable.
She added that while most paid immigration representatives follow the rules, those involved in fraud or misconduct will face consequences.
IRCC has advised applicants to verify whether their immigration or citizenship representative is authorized before paying for any services. Applicants can also use the government’s official website to learn how to choose a representative or file a complaint.
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