Ottawa’s new regulations for immigration consultants come into force today as the federal government seeks to reinforce oversight of the industry and bolster the role of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
What changed and why it matters
Announced in May, the regulations are intended to “enhance oversight” of consultants who provide immigration advice and to clarify the CICC’s responsibilities. The move follows several high-profile fraud schemes — including one that targeted international students in Ontario — and growing concern that registered consultants sometimes exploit clients rather than guide them through Canada’s complex immigration system.
Those who have been through such cases say the changes may be a step forward but worry they will not be enough to prevent misconduct. One affected client, identified only as Abhishek by OMNI News to protect his identity, told reporters he was asked to pay as much as $100,000 by a consultant promising a way to stay in the country after arriving in 2022.
“They need to guide people, but instead … they are selling their products.”
Civil litigation lawyer Eoin Logan of British Columbia, who represents clients who file complaints with the CICC, said many potential complainants feel discouraged or fearful of retaliation that could affect their immigration status. He also questioned whether the college is using powers it already has, such as auditing consultants proactively.
Concerns about enforcement and capacity
Logan pointed to the college’s existing budget as part of the debate over enforcement. He referred to a $24-million annual budget and asked whether the college lacks resources or the will to exercise its regulatory powers more actively.
- Regulations effective: Took effect today after being announced in May.
- Main regulator: College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
- Concerns: Potential lack of proactive auditing, limited resources, fear of retaliation among complainants.
Advocates and legal representatives say stronger enforcement mechanisms — including proactive audits and better resourcing for the CICC — will be needed if the new rules are to reduce immigration fraud and restore confidence among newcomers who rely on paid advice.
| Element | Current status |
|---|---|
| Regulations announced | May |
| Regulations effective | Today |
| CICC annual budget referenced | $24 million (as cited by legal counsel) |
Federal officials have said the changes will strengthen accountability, but critics will be watching for evidence that the college is using its powers, including audits and disciplinary tools, to deter bad actors and protect vulnerable applicants. For many newcomers, the stakes are high: reliance on paid immigration advice is common and the consequences of fraud or poor guidance can be severe.
As the rules take effect, community groups, legal clinics and affected clients will continue to monitor whether the CICC increases proactive oversight and whether the promised protections translate into measurable reductions in scams and misconduct.
