Verify the individual, not just the business name

IRCC provides links for checking authorized representatives. Immigration consultants must belong to the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants; lawyers and Quebec notaries must belong to the relevant professional body. Ontario paralegals are checked through the Law Society of Ontario. Verify that the person is in good standing.

Find the individual’s record yourself through the official register. Compare the name and contact details with the person you are dealing with. A logo, certificate image or impressive biography is not a substitute for that check.

Know what service you are buying

Ask for a written description of the work, who will perform it, charges, refund terms and how you can obtain your file. Separate document organization from immigration advice and representation. Do not assume that someone who can assemble a folder is authorized to select your legal strategy.

Original Documentation’s Canada guides provide educational information and practical organization. They do not establish that a reader qualifies, promise approval or replace advice from an authorized Canadian professional. When a question involves eligibility, inadmissibility, a refusal or disputed status, obtain the appropriate individualized help.

A guaranteed result is a warning sign

IRCC warns that no one can guarantee a Canadian job or visa. Treat claims of special access, assured approval or a shortcut around the official process with caution. Compare what is being offered with the actual program requirements before paying.

Use a deliberate pause when someone pressures you to act immediately. Verify the sender independently, inspect the destination of a payment and keep records of the conversation. Do not let urgency substitute for evidence.

You remain responsible for the information

IRCC states that applicants are responsible for information in an application even when a representative prepares it. False statements and fake or altered documents can have serious consequences. Read the complete application before authorizing submission.

Keep an independent copy of the submitted material and official receipts. Never sign a blank document. If you do not understand an answer, ask for an explanation before it is sent; do not accept “everyone does it” as a reason to use information you know is untrue.

If something is wrong, preserve evidence and use official channels

Save relevant messages, agreements and receipts without publishing sensitive identifiers. IRCC’s reporting page directs readers to the appropriate channels for scams, fraud or abuse. A professional-conduct complaint and a fraud report can be different processes.

Do not post passports, identity numbers or full immigration records in public comments or an ordinary inquiry form. Seek help through a verified channel and provide only the information appropriate to that channel.

Educational information, not legal advice or an eligibility assessment. Original Documentation is independent of the Government of Canada. Use the current official instructions for your circumstances; obtain advice from an authorized Canadian immigration professional for individual legal questions.

Official sources