Canada to tighten rules for immigration and citizenship consultants starting July 15

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published July 5, 2026

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Canada will introduce stricter rules for immigration and citizenship consultants on July 15, 2026, in a move aimed at protecting applicants from fraud, misconduct and unreliable representation. The federal government says the new regulations are designed to improve access to trustworthy, transparent and accountable advice for people going through immigration or citizenship processes.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the new regulations will strengthen the role of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, the body responsible for regulating licensed immigration and citizenship consultants in Canada. The measures are intended to help applicants receive more reliable services throughout their applications, whether they are seeking study permits, work permits, permanent residence, family sponsorship or citizenship.

The changes will allow the College to strengthen its complaints and discipline process, including through increased penalties for consultants who break the rules. They will also clarify rules around investigations into professional misconduct and introduce new reporting requirements to improve transparency.

Beginning in April 2027, more information will also be required on the College’s public register of licensed consultants. The government says this is meant to help the public verify whether a consultant is properly licensed and avoid unauthorized representatives who may advertise immigration services without the right credentials.

The new rules will also give the immigration minister the power to appoint someone to take over board duties if the College’s board fails to meet its responsibilities. In addition, the regulations will establish guidelines for the College’s compensation fund, which was created for people who suffer financial losses caused by dishonest acts by consultants.

The issue is especially important for international students, newcomers and families applying to come to Canada, as immigration files often involve high fees, sensitive personal information and life-changing decisions. Dealing with an unlicensed or dishonest representative can lead to financial loss, incorrect applications, delays, refusals or serious complications in a person’s immigration status.

Tawasul News advises readers to check the official public register before paying any immigration or citizenship consultant, and to be cautious of promises that sound too fast, too easy or guaranteed. In Canada, paid immigration and citizenship advice should only be provided by authorized representatives, including licensed consultants, lawyers or other approved professionals.