Fraud Prevention Month
The Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) dedicated March 2017 to fraud prevention. Especially relevant are the consumer awareness videos that provide information on who may provide Canadian immigration and citizenship services for a fee.
The ICCRC is the national regulatory authority designated by the Government of Canada to safeguard consumers who seek Canadian immigration and citizenship advice. As well, representation from immigration consultants. Canadian law requires that ICCRC must register immigration consultants, in Canada and abroad. In addition, ICCRC must accredit them as Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs).
Youtube video – Consumer Awareness Video
Fraud Prevention with ICCRC
ICCRC’s mandate is to protect consumers of immigration services through effective regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants and promotion of the benefits of using only authorized immigration representatives. Further, ICCRC as a self-governing regulatory body, manages the profession’s entry-to-practice standards, professional requirements and a rigorous complaints and discipline process.
RCICs
Most noteworthy, over 4,300 regulated immigration consultants currently operate in Canada. They serve hundreds of thousands of immigration and citizenship seekers every year. RCICs help applicants navigate the intricacies of coming to Canada.
First of all, RCICs must complete rigorous training and testing in immigration law to complete their certification. To become a member, they must complete an exam, go through a background check and submit to compliance audits. Furthermore, they are governed by strict codes of conduct designed to protect consumers. Finally, they also carry errors and omission insurance like lawyers. Consequently, this procedure ensures that RCICs possess the knowledge and skills to assist clients through the Canadian immigration and citizenship process.
“Ghost consultants”
Nevertheless, many fraudsters are working outside this framework. Some unlicensed consultants promise “special connections” with government officials and “guarantee positive outcomes”. Therefore, the problem that unauthorized practitioners pose for consumers are immense. Sometimes resulting in terrible stories of financial loss and even deportation. In conclusion, if you have been a victim of fraud or know someone operating illegally, please report the case(s) to ICCRC.
