Be aware of immigration fraud, this Fraud prevention month
Credit to Author: Canadian Immigrant| Date: Tue, 29 Mar 2022 13:35:03 +0000
March is Fraud Prevention Month, and Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is encouraging potential newcomers to be informed and educated about the warning signs to avoid becoming victims of fraud.
Under Canadian law, only authorized immigration representatives can charge a fee to help someone apply for a visa to come to Canada. However, many unlicensed consultants exploit the anxiety and inexperience of a potential newcomer for their own gain. In addition, if a newcomer uses an unauthorized representative, their application may be refused.
In his statement issued for Fraud Prevention Month, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser highlights several concrete steps that Canada has taken to fight immigration fraud.
“The Government of Canada has taken action to hold the consulting profession to a higher standard. In November 2021, we marked a major milestone in this commitment when the new College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants opened its doors. As the official regulator of immigration and citizenship consultants, the College has the power and tools to investigate professional misconduct and to discipline its licensees. It will also be subject to significant government oversight to ensure public protection.
“Canada has also taken decisive action by investing $51.9 million to improve oversight, strengthen enforcement, and increase accountability to protect the public from dishonest consultants who take advantage of vulnerable newcomers.”
He calls on applicants who choose to hire authorized immigration and citizenship consultants to use an authorized immigration and citizenship consultant, lawyer or Quebec notary.
“No matter what path you choose, keep yourself informed. All necessary application documents can be found on the IRCC website,” he says.
Learn more about common types of immigration scams and where to report immigration fraud at Canada.ca/immigration-fraud.
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