IRCC fraud prevention update

IRCC Introduces New Penalties for Fraudulent and Unauthorized Representatives

Published October 28, 2026Verified October 29, 2026Source: official government publication

Immigration documents and a protective shield on a professional office desk — Illustrative image — not a photograph of the government announcement.

New monetary penalties are now in force for paid immigration and citizenship representatives who act without authorization or knowingly provide false or misleading information.

Unauthorized paid advice$5,000 penalty

False or misleading information$15,000 penalty

Maximum combined penaltiesUp to $1.5 million

What was announced

IRCC announced that new monetary penalties took effect on October 28, 2026 for people who break the law while providing paid immigration or citizenship advice or representation. The rules apply to licensed immigration consultants, lawyers and other authorized representatives, as well as people who provide paid advice or representation without authorization.

IRCC states that a $5,000 penalty may be imposed for providing paid advice or representation without authorization. A $15,000 penalty may apply when a representative knowingly gives false or misleading information on an applicant's behalf or helps an applicant do so. Additional penalties may apply when an application is approved using false or misleading information, and repeat violations can increase the total to a maximum of $1.5 million for all violations combined.

IRCC plans to publish the names of penalized representatives and details of their violations. The department says the public registry is expected to launch in 2027 after the first penalties are administered. Applicants remain responsible for the information submitted in their applications and should verify that anyone they pay for immigration or citizenship advice is authorized and in good standing.

What this may mean for applicants

Before paying a representative, verify their licence through the appropriate regulator, obtain a written service agreement and keep copies of every form and document submitted. Do not accept advice to omit facts or provide inaccurate information. If you suspect fraud, unauthorized practice or misconduct, use the official complaint or fraud-reporting channels.

Official source

IRCC — New penalties for fraudulent and unauthorized representatives

IRCC — How to choose an immigration or citizenship representative

Important: This update provides general information only and is not legal advice. Program requirements, eligibility rules and draw results can change. Your options should be assessed using current official requirements and your individual circumstances.