Proposed new rules to improve the regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants

Ottawa, January 17, 2025—Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is introducing draft regulations to further define the structure and operations of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. These new regulations aim to improve the regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants.

The draft regulations have been published in the Canada Gazette, and stakeholders can review and provide feedback before the new rules are implemented in 2025.

The regulations would

• elaborate on the college’s authorities under the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants Act (College Act) in such areas as
  • the public register of immigration consultants
  • the complaints and discipline processes
  • investigations conducted by the college
• establish a compensation fund for victims of unethical immigration consultants
• clarify the minister’s power to appoint someone to take over board duties if the board fails to meet its responsibilities under the College Act

IRCC established the college in 2021 to regulate immigration and citizenship consultants and protect the public. The college is a key part of the government’s efforts to fight fraud in Canada’s immigration system. IRCC maintains strong oversight to ensure the college fulfills its mandate to protect the public and strengthen the integrity of the immigration consulting industry.