Canada is strengthening immigration consultant regulations to protect applicants. New laws take effect July 15, 2026 . These changes aim to improve oversight of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). The government wants the CICC to be more accountable. It will have increased power to punish misconduct.
New Regulations for Consultants
The reforms grant the CICC more authority. This includes harsher penalties for wrongdoing. Investigations into complaints will become faster. The disciplinary process will also improve.
A new compensation fund will launch. It will cover financial losses from fraud or theft. This applies to licensed consultants, known as Registered Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIA). Claims must follow a formal complaint process. The fund covers incidents from November 23, 2021 , to July 15, 2026 .
Enhanced Student Protection
Starting April 2027 , public profiles for consultants will be available. These profiles will be on the CICC Public Register. They will list ownership data. Compliance and disciplinary histories will also be shown. This information will be verifiable.
Government oversight of the CICC will increase. The Immigration Minister can appoint an administrator. This action may occur if the CICC board fails in its duties.
Advice for Applicants
Individuals seeking advice on study permits or visas should verify consultants. Use the CICC Public Register before paying any fees. Unlicensed advisors are not permitted to help. Only CICC-licensed professionals, lawyers, or notaries can provide legal assistance.
These new rules follow recent caps on study permits. They are designed to prevent scams. The changes intend to make the process of studying in Canada more secure.
