Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) are being reminded of their responsibilities when working with Agents.
Allowing Agents to provide Canadian immigration or citizenship advice or representation for a fee or for any other benefit can result in the RCIC facing disciplinary action, which may include fines, being prohibited from using Agents, suspension and licence revocation.
An Agent is a person or company operating outside of Canada who assists an RCIC’s practice. Assistance may include finding clients or promoting services.
If the Agent offers Canadian immigration or citizenship advice or services for consideration , they are acting as an unauthorized practitioner (UAP).
Licensees are responsible for the actions of their Agents and both must comply with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, Agents Regulation, By-laws and Code of Professional Conduct.
Before working with an Agent, a licensee must first register them and sign an Agent Agreement. The agreement must include the services the Agent will provide. If an RCIC suspects a registered Agent of illegal activity, they must terminate the agreement and advise the College immediately.
Registered Agents are listed on the licensee’s profile in the Public Register.