Canada strengthens regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants

The Government of Canada is strengthening protections for people seeking immigration and citizenship advice by improving access to trustworthy, quality representation. Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced new regulations to enhance the oversight of immigration and citizenship consultants in Canada.

These measures will reinforce the role of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants and help applicants obtain more reliable, transparent and accountable services throughout their immigration or citizenship process. The new regulations will take effect on July 15, 2026, and will

allow the College to strengthen its complaints and discipline process, including through increased penalties, for consultants who break the rules
require more information on the College’s public register of licensed consultants beginning April 2027, to increase transparency and protect the public from unauthorized representatives
improve transparency by adding new reporting requirements for the College
improve the College’s investigation process for misconduct by clarifying the rules
give the minister the power to appoint someone to take over board duties if the board fails to meet its responsibilities
establish guidelines for the College’s compensation fund, created for victims of financial loss caused by dishonest acts from consultants