In March 2025, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, addressed the issue of immigration fraud in Canada during Fraud Prevention Month.
He emphasized the serious consequences that fraud not only imposes on hopeful immigrants seeking a new life but also on the integrity of the country's immigration system. Fraudsters prey on individuals eager for a brighter future, luring them with false promises and extortionate fees for fake services and fraudulent applications. Miller pointed out that providing misleading information or submitting forged documents in immigration or citizenship applications is against the law and comes with severe repercussions.
The Canadian government is actively implementing its Border Plan to enhance border security and bolster the immigration system while simultaneously pursuing stringent actions against fraudulent activities. By maintaining the system's integrity, the government aims to protect legitimate applicants and continue to embrace newcomers who make significant contributions to communities and the economy. Statistics from 2024 reveal that over 9,000 cases of suspected immigration fraud were investigated each month, leading to thousands of application refusals and the barring of tens of thousands of dishonorable individuals from entering Canada.
Tougher penalties have been introduced, with fines reaching up to $1.5 million for dishonest immigration representatives who assist clients in submitting fraudulent applications. Importantly, measures have also been put in place to mitigate fraud within the Express Entry system by removing incentives that would allow individuals to illegally buy or sell labour market impact assessments to enhance their chances of being selected for permanent residency. Additionally, efforts are underway to combat misinformation related to international study permits and asylum processes, aiming to provide accurate knowledge of Canada's immigration system to potential applicants and protect them from exploitation.
The Minister urged all applicants to approach immigration advice with caution, stating that only authorized representatives—licensed immigration consultants, lawyers, or notaries—are permitted to charge fees for their services. He reinforced that all necessary information and forms required for applications are freely accessible on the official IRCC website. Miller concluded his statement urging potential immigrants to stay informed, remain cautious, and report any suspicious activities, asserting that recognizing and reporting immigration fraud is a collective responsibility crucial to safeguarding the integrity of the immigration system and protecting the interests of all applicants.
Source: Canada.ca