People in Ottawa paying for immigration or citizenship advice should verify their representative’s authorization before handing over money. IRCC announced on October 28 that new monetary penalties for misconduct by paid representatives took effect that day.

The rules cover licensed professionals and people offering paid services without authorization. IRCC lists base amounts of $5,000 for unauthorized paid advice and $15,000 for knowingly providing false or misleading information or helping an applicant do so. Actual penalties depend on factors including prior violations and financial benefit.

A public registry naming penalized representatives is expected in 2027; it is not yet available under this announcement.

Applicants can use IRCC’s verification page to find professional registers, including the immigration consultants’ college and provincial law societies. IRCC also provides complaint instructions and a web form for suspected fraud or misinformation. Applicants remain responsible for information submitted in their applications, even when someone else completes the paperwork.

Official sources: IRCC announcement, October 28; Penalty rules and process; Check authorization; Complaint instructions.