Easy Steps to Verify Your Immigration Consultant
When seeking immigration advice, ensuring that your consultant is licensed and authorized in Canada is crucial. Many unauthorized practitioners operate illegally, charging high fees and making false promises.
To protect yourself from fraud, you should verify that your consultant is registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC).
The CICC Public Register is an official tool that allows you to check whether a consultant is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or a Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA). This guide will walk you through how to use the Public Register to confirm your consultant’s credentials and avoid scams.
Why Is Verifying Your Immigration Consultant Important?
Hiring an unauthorized consultant can lead to severe consequences, including rejected applications due to incorrect advice, financial loss from fraudulent fees, and legal consequences if an unlicensed consultant misrepresents your case.
It is illegal for anyone to offer immigration advice in Canada for a fee without being licensed by:
- The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC)
- A Canadian law society
- The Chambre des notaires du Québec
By using the Public Register, you can confirm whether a consultant is authorized and ensure that you’re working with a legitimate professional.
How to Verify Your Immigration Consultant Using the CICC Public Register
Verifying your consultant is a simple process. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official CICC Public Register website.
Step 2: Click Find an immigration consultant and below window will appear.
Step 3: Choose the Type of Consultant
You can search for either Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs).
Step 4: Enter the Consultant’s Details
You can search using either of the following information:
- First Name
- Last Name
- College ID
- Company Name
- Country or City
Step 4: Check the Search Results
Once you enter the consultant’s details, you’ll see their Name, College ID, Company, Licence Type, and Entitlement to Practise.
Step 5: Review Their Profile
Clicking on the consultant’s profile will give you additional information, including Licence Status (Active or Inactive), Licence History, Contact Information, Agent Details, and Disciplinary History (suspensions, revocations, complaints, or disciplinary actions). If the consultant has any past disciplinary actions, review them carefully before proceeding.
How to Protect Yourself from Immigration Fraud
Some unauthorized consultants pose as licensed professionals online. To avoid scams, follow these tips:
- Verify the Consultant on the Public Register
Always confirm that their name is listed and active on the CICC Public Register.
- Confirm Contact Details
Compare their official contact information from the Public Register with what they provide you. If there are discrepancies, be cautious.
- Ask for References and Read Reviews
Check online reviews and ask for previous client references before proceeding.
- Contact Employers or Schools Directly
If you’re applying for a job or study permit, verify the program directly with the employer or school.
- Report Unauthorized Practitioners (UAPs)
If someone is offering immigration services without being licensed, report them to the CICC via their online complaint form.
What If Your Consultant Is Not Listed on the Public Register?
If the consultant you are dealing with does not appear in the Public Register:
- Do not make any payments until you verify their credentials.
- Check the Government of Canada’s official website to see if they are authorized under another organization.
- Contact the CICC directly for assistance.
Check out IRCC study permit Processing Times from outside Canada.
Check out the updated directory of Canada’s DLIs (designated learning institutions).
Final Thoughts
Hiring a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisor (RISIA) ensures you receive reliable and legal immigration services. The CICC Public Register is a powerful tool that allows you to verify a consultant’s status, helping you avoid scams and making the immigration process smoother.
