the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC).
Before acquiring the services of an immigration consultant, it is important to understand the difference between a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) and an unauthorized provider of immigration services. RCICs are required to abide by a strict Code of Conduct – available here. There will be numerous benefits associated with utilizing the services of a RCIC and serious risks associated with utilizing the services of these unauthorized providers. For more information, please read our information document for consumers, ICCRC – What It Means to You: The Consumer.
Regulated Consultants vs. Unauthorized Providers of Immigration Services:
| Attribute | Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant | Unauthorized Provider of Immigration Services |
| Accountable to ICCRC; complaints are taken seriously | Yes | No – accountable to no one |
| Monitored by ICCRC; non-compliance is taken seriously | Yes | No – may operate unknown to authorities |
| Supported by ICCRC to enhance quality of services | Yes | No – not supported by anyone |
| Knowledgeable and informed on immigration law and Canadian immigration system | Yes | No – no education prerequisite on immigration issues |
| Proficient in English or French | Yes | No – may be unable to communicate properly in English or French |
| Required to abide by stringent ethical and professional rules that are designed to protect consumers | Yes | No – not subject to any ethical requirements |
| Possess valid Errors and Omissions Insurance for enhanced consumer protection | Yes | No – may not have any Errors and Omissions Insurance |
| Work with agents known to ICCRC | Yes | No – no information on their associates |
| Required to provide evidence of good character prior to becoming Regulated | Yes | No – may have committed fraudulent or illegal activities in the past |
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