The Canadian government has announced new regulations to strengthen oversight of immigration and citizenship consultants, as part of efforts to improve transparency and protect applicants from fraud and misconduct. The new rules will come into effect on July 15, 2026.
In a statement, Lena Metlege Diab said the measures are aimed at ensuring people seeking immigration or citizenship advice in Canada receive reliable and accountable services.
The new regulations will strengthen the authority of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, the body responsible for regulating licensed consultants in Canada.
New rules to increase transparency and penalties
Under the revised framework, the College will be allowed to impose stronger penalties on consultants who violate rules and improve its complaints and disciplinary process.
The regulations will also require additional information to be published on the College’s public register of licensed consultants starting April 2027. The government said this step is intended to improve transparency and help applicants identify authorised representatives.
Other measures include new reporting requirements for the College, clearer investigation procedures for misconduct cases and guidelines for a compensation fund meant for victims of financial losses caused by dishonest consultants.
The regulations will also give the immigration minister the power to appoint someone to take over board responsibilities if the College’s board fails to meet its duties.
Minister Diab said, “People looking to build their future in Canada deserve access to honest and reliable immigration and citizenship advice. They need to have confidence that our government is taking effective steps to improve integrity.”
Kate Lamb, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, said the regulations would strengthen tools available to maintain professional standards and improve accountability in the sector.
