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Canada Introduces New Penalties for Paid Visa Representatives
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) says new administrative penalties for immigration and citizenship representatives came into force on 28 October 2026. The framework covers both authorised and unauthorised paid representatives.
What penalties has IRCC announced?
| Conduct described by IRCC | Announced penalty |
|---|---|
| Providing paid advice or representation without authorisation | CAD 5,000 |
| Knowingly providing false or misleading information, or helping an applicant do so | CAD 15,000 |
Further amounts can apply where an application was approved using false information, and repeat violations can attract higher penalties. The stated ceiling is CAD 1.5 million for all violations combined; it is not an automatic fine for every case. A formal review mechanism is available.
Public disclosure is being introduced
IRCC says names and violations will be published as penalties are issued. A searchable registry is expected in 2027. Applicants should not assume that this future registry is already available.
How applicants can check paid representation
IRCC's authorised-representative guidance identifies regulated immigration consultants in good standing with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, eligible Canadian lawyers and Quebec notaries, and Ontario paralegals in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.
Check the individual professional's membership and standing with the relevant regulator. A company name, social media following or office address does not replace that professional check. Before appointing anyone, ask who will provide the regulated advice and how the engagement and fees will be documented.
Keep copies of your agreement, payment records and submitted information. Review your application carefully rather than treating a paid engagement as a substitute for understanding what is being filed.
Related reading: Canada PR process for Indian applicants.
Official sources
Discuss your application with Peerless
For a review of your circumstances and the documents relevant to this update, contact PEERLESS IMMIGRATION SERVICES. No invitation, nomination or visa outcome is guaranteed.
Call +91-8595010514 or email info@peerlessimmigration.com.
Frequently asked questions
When did the new penalties take effect?
IRCC states that they came into force on 28 October 2026.
Do they cover unauthorised paid representatives?
Yes. IRCC includes both authorised and unauthorised paid representatives.
Is CAD 1.5 million the fine for every violation?
No. It is the announced maximum for all violations combined.
Is the new registry already live?
IRCC says the searchable registry is expected in 2027.
Whose credentials should an applicant check?
Check the individual paid professional with the relevant Canadian regulator, including their current standing.
