Ontario to Combat Immigration Fraud

Ontario is taking bold action to protect vulnerable newcomers and ensure integrity in its immigration system.

The provincial government has announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at cracking down on fraudulent immigration representatives who exploit immigrants.

If passed, the legislation will enforce strict standards for representatives assisting with Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) applications and impose severe penalties on violators, including lifetime bans and hefty fines.

A Commitment to Protecting Newcomers

David Piccini, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, emphasized the importance of safeguarding newcomers from predatory practices.

“Immigrants come to this province to work hard, support their families, and contribute to a stronger Ontario. Many put their trust in immigration representatives – most of whom are diligent and honest – but a few bad actors exploit vulnerable newcomers, jeopardizing their immigration status and scamming them out of tens of thousands of dollars,” Piccini stated.

The proposed legislation would require immigration representatives to adhere to rigorous standards, including providing proof of their credentials, maintaining written contracts with applicants, and ensuring applicants have direct access to their files.

Key Features of the Proposed Legislation

The new measures under the Ontario Immigration Act, 2015, would include:

• Enhanced Transparency: Representatives would need to disclose their registration or licensing status and ensure applicants have real-time access to their application status.
• Accountability: Written agreements would become mandatory between representatives and applicants to establish clear terms and responsibilities.
• Stricter Penalties:
  • A three to ten-year ban for representatives involved in fraud.
  • A lifetime ban for individuals convicted of serious crimes like human trafficking.
  • Fines for misrepresentation, even when services are provided without payment.

The province also plans to increase the minimum administrative monetary penalty for dishonest representatives from $2,000 to $10,000, reflecting its zero-tolerance stance on immigration fraud.

Building on Progress

This initiative aligns with Ontario’s broader efforts under its Working for Workers Acts, which have introduced landmark protections for workers and immigrants since 2021.

Among other achievements, Ontario was the first province in Canada to ban discriminatory Canadian work experience requirements for regulated professions.

Additionally, the province is addressing critical labor shortages by expanding OINP pathways for healthcare professionals.

In 2023 alone, Ontario nominated 2,045 healthcare workers, including internationally trained nurses and physicians, for permanent residence through the program.

Immigration Fraud: A Growing Concern

Between May 2019 and April 2024, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) charged 153 individuals with immigration consultant-related fraud, highlighting the urgent need for robust protections.

Fraudulent practices often leave newcomers financially devastated and jeopardize their immigration status.

By introducing these legislative measures, Ontario seeks to eliminate bad actors from the system, fostering trust and fairness for immigrants striving to build a better future.

Ontario is also investing $100 million in 2024-25 to help newcomers settle, learn English or French, access training, and secure meaningful employment.

Research indicates that fully integrating internationally trained professionals into their fields could boost the province’s GDP by up to $100 billion over five years.

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Quick Facts

• OINP’s Role: Ontario nominates skilled individuals for permanent residence, with final approvals granted by the federal government.
• Regulatory Framework: Immigration consultants are regulated federally, while immigration lawyers are governed provincially.
• Innovative Pathways: Internationally educated nurses registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario are now exempt from requiring a bachelor’s degree under specific OINP streams.

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A Stronger Ontario for All

The proposed legislation reflects province’s commitment to protecting newcomers, strengthening the labor market, and maintaining the province’s reputation as a welcoming destination for immigrants.

By enforcing higher standards and severe penalties, the government aims to eliminate fraud and ensure the integrity of its immigration programs.

Stay tuned as Ontario unveils more details in the coming weeks, signaling its dedication to building a brighter, fairer future for all residents.

For more updates on immigration policies and opportunities in Ontario, follow us.

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