With the coming into force of a new law on June 30, 2011, some third parties who were not formerly required to be authorized to provide paid advice will now have to refer people to an authorized representative or become authorized themselves.
Some examples of paid advice or representation that will now be captured through the implementation of the law include:
- representing the applicant during an immigration proceeding by speaking on their behalf;
- providing guidance to a client on how to select the best immigration stream and complete the appropriate forms.
Paid immigration representatives Only the following people may charge a fee or receive any other type of consideration, to represent or advise you in connection with a Canadian immigration proceeding or application:
- lawyers and paralegals who are members in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society
- Notaries who are members in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec, and
- Immigration consultants who are members in good standing of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council
Unpaid immigration third parties Unpaid third parties, such as family members, friends, non-governmental or religious organizations will still be allowed to act on your behalf.
To protect your privacy, CIC will not share any of your personal information with your consultant, lawyer, and other representative unless you provide your written consent using the Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) form.
Choose an immigration representative Get tips on how to choose an immigration representative.