March 13, 2014

Choose the right representative, don’t be a victim of immigration fraud

March is Fraud Prevention Month, and Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander is encouraging newcomers to seek authorized immigration representatives to avoid being a victim of fraud. “Fraud is a very serious issue in our immigration system. Our government is taking action to combat fraud by introducing specific measures in the Strengthening Citizenship Act that will address misrepresentation in the citizenship system.”

Newcomers should be aware that under Canadian law, only authorized immigration representatives are allowed to charge a fee to assist an individual to apply for a Canadian visa. Hiring an unauthorized representative weaken Canada’s immigration system, cost taxpayers money, and can often lead to the refusal of the application. On the other hand, authorized immigration representatives are vastly trained and effectively regulated and will provide newcomers with accurate advice and the best service.

Authorized immigration representatives include:

–       Lawyers and paralegals who are members in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society;

–       Notaries who are members in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec; and

–       Immigration consultants who are members in good standing of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council.

Make the right decision, don’t be a victim of immigration fraud

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