Canada rolled out strict financial penalties reaching up to $1.5 million for citizenship and immigration representatives participating in dishonest activities or offering unauthorized assistance. These updated regulations started on October 28, 2026, protecting people applying for immigration from scams, bad advice, and exploitation while improving the overall system.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada stated that these measures affect every paid citizenship and immigration representative, covering lawyers, licensed consultants, authorized professionals, and unauthorized operators.
Unauthorized individuals charging fees for immigration or citizenship guidance risk a $5,000 fine. People who intentionally submit misleading or false details for applicants, or assist them in doing so, face a $15,000 fine.
Further penalties can occur if an application gets approved using incorrect details. Authorities will raise fines for multiple offenses, pushing the combined penalty limit to $1.5 million for all infractions.
Ottawa will also publicly disclose the identities of rule-breaking agents. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada intends to open an online database in 2027 showing the names of sanctioned agents and particulars regarding their offenses.
This database exists to let applicants spot untrustworthy agents prior to hiring them.
Lena Metlege Diab, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship for Canada, stated that the steps defend individuals wanting dependable guidance and guarantee that lawbreakers face responsibility.
She mentioned that although the majority of paid agents obey regulations, lawbreakers and dishonest actors will encounter penalties.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada suggested that applicants confirm their agent holds proper authorization prior to making any payments. Individuals can check the official government site to find instructions on selecting an agent or submitting a grievance.
