Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Canada Strengthens Oversight of Immigration Consultants
March 8, 2022—Ottawa—In a bid to bolster its immigration framework, Canada continues to welcome an unprecedented number of newcomers, emphasizing the need for accessible, high-quality immigration advice. The Government of Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to enhance the regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants, ensuring they operate under the highest professional standards.
Establishment of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants
On November 23, 2021, a significant milestone was reached with the inauguration of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. This institution serves as the official regulator for immigration and citizenship consultants across Canada. The College is responsible for licensing consultants to advise and represent clients in applications with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Governed by a nine-member board of directors, the College is a self-regulating entity.
New Appointments to the Board
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the appointment of five public interest directors to the board:
- Ben Rempel: Former Assistant Deputy Minister of Immigration, Manitoba
- Jennifer Henry: Senior Program Development and Strategy Lead, The United Church of Canada
- Normand Beaudry: Director of International Recruitment, Université Laval, and Treasurer/Member, CALDO Consortium
- Timothy D’Souza: Senior Vice President, Finance and Business Operations, Diabetes Canada
- Nicholas Summers: Former Provincial Director/CEO, Newfoundland and Labrador Legal Aid Commission
Each of these directors will serve a two-year term, commencing on March 7, 2022.
Update on Board Composition
In a recent development, on May 30, 2022, following the resignation of a board member, Minister Sean Fraser appointed Jyoti Singh, Executive Director of Nellie’s, a community-based feminist organization. Ms. Singh will serve as a Public Interest Director until March 6, 2024.
Enhancing Oversight and Integrity
The establishment of the College and the strategic appointment of public interest directors represent a significant stride in increasing government oversight of the consultant profession. These initiatives aim to better protect immigration and citizenship clients and reinforce the integrity of the consulting industry. The College forms a crucial part of the government's ongoing efforts to combat fraud within Canada’s immigration system.
By ensuring stringent regulatory frameworks and oversight, Canada continues to uphold its reputation as a welcoming nation while safeguarding the interests of those seeking new beginnings within its borders. This comprehensive approach not only enhances the credibility of the immigration consulting profession but also fortifies the trust that clients place in the system. As Canada opens its doors to newcomers, the focus remains on maintaining a fair, transparent, and efficient immigration process.
