The federal government has introduced monetary penalties of up to $1.5 million for people who provide fraudulent or unauthorized immigration or citizenship advice or representation.
The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced the legislation on Oct. 28, saying it was committed to upholding the integrity of Canada’s immigration and citizenship systems and protecting individuals from fraud and exploitation.
The department said the penalties take effect immediately, including $5,000 for unauthorized advice or representation and $15,000 to those who “knowingly provid[e] false or misleading information on an applicant’s behalf or helping an applicant do so.”
IRCC said it could apply additional penalties if it approves an application that turns out to be based on false or misleading information. Penalties increase for repeat violations, with a cumulative maximum of $1.5 million, the department said….