Canadian immigration scams and fraud by unauthorized persons claiming to be a licensed lawyer, immigration consultant or a government representative, are a serious problem. Here are ten signs to look for to avoid being a victim.

Canadian immigration law, regulations and policies are complex, especially for foreign nationals. The fact foreigners are likely to be unfamiliar with the Canadian immigration system makes them especially vulnerable to unlicensed practitioners and immigration scams or fraud.

Immigration scams and fraud can occur in many forms. Often it will be a foreign-based person claiming to be a licensed Canadian lawyer, immigration consultant or a representative of the Government of Canada. It may involve exaggerated claims, guarantees of success, or some other invitation to ‘game’ the system.

A potential immigrant’s desire to begin a new life in Canada may cloud their judgment but there are signs one should look for to avoid immigration fraud and not become a victim of immigration fraud.

Here are ten common signs, in no particular order, of Canadian immigration scams.

Creating Falsified Documents

Any suggestion that a client can use falsified documents for education or employment credentials, identification or any other document is a sure indication of fraud.

No Authorized Representative Paperwork

This is a common practice of “ghost consultants” or other unauthorized counsel. Essentially they will not want their name associated with the application. They will have the client submit the application and other documentation themselves personally without including the proper authorization form. Any lawyer or other authorized representative would have a client sign this form so they can deal directly with the IRCC on the client’s behalf.

Making Factual Misrepresentations

Much like encouraging the use of falsified documents, clients must beware of any representative who encourages any attempt to lie, mislead, or misrepresent facts to the IRCC.

Claiming to Have Special Connections

Anyone claiming to have special connections with Canadian immigration officials to gain any type of advantage or approval is being dishonest. There are no such connections. No legitimate counsel would ever make this claim.

Alleging to Fast Track an Application

While experienced counsel may know how to make the process as expeditious as possible there is absolutely no way to fast-track an application by paying an extra fee to the IRCC or any individual.

Guarantee Success

Experienced counsel may provide an opinion on the likelihood of success in general terms, but no one can guarantee the outcome.

Requesting to be Paid in Cash

Lawyers and other regulated counsel prefer not to be paid in cash as there are strict requirements that require all funds to be held in a dedicated client/trust account until service has been provided.

Requesting you to Marry or Adopt Someone

Getting involved in any type of marriage or adoption fraud is an obvious sign of an immigration scam and most likely unauthorized representative.

Not Listed with a Law Society or the CICC

Generally, only those licensed by a Canadian Law Society and the Canadian College of Immigration and Citizenship (CCIC) are authorized to assist clients with immigration-related matters. Lawyers have typically obtained a bachelor’s degree and have then completed 3 plus years of extensive legal training at an accredited law school. Regulated consultants have completed bachelor’s degree as well as a one-year graduate diploma program focused solely on immigration practice. This training and professional regulation helps to ensure competence and ethical practices.

A Canadian Government Employee

The Canadian government does not have employees or other representatives soliciting individuals for permanent residence or other types of entry to Canada. They will never contact you threatening penalties, attempt to collect fees individually, or any other such practice.

Promise that Defies Common Sense

As every parent has told their child at some point, if it seems to be good to be true, it usually is.

While the Canadian government, law societies, professional regulators, and law enforcement agencies do attempt to combat fraud and scams perpetrated against potential immigrants by unauthorized representatives, it is a very difficult task. It is nearly impossible when a bad actor is operating overseas as they are often beyond the reach of federal and provincial regulators as well as law enforcement.

The best protection for vulnerable immigrants is public education to inform and protect them from unscrupulous agents and ensure they are able to retain the services of genuine immigration professionals.