BRAMPTON — The Ontario government is taking decisive action to address immigration fraud with new legislation targeting dishonest immigration representatives. The proposed bill seeks to establish strict standards for representatives assisting with the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and impose severe penalties for violations.
If passed, the legislation would introduce measures such as mandatory written contracts between representatives and applicants, proof of registration or licensing, and ensuring applicants have direct access to their application files. These changes aim to improve transparency and accountability, reducing opportunities for exploitation.
We’re cracking down on scumbag immigration consultants who scam and exploit people.
Today, we announced new measures that will protect newcomers under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), and put an end to scams with lifetime bans, higher fines, and new enforcement… pic.twitter.com/IBrquOZ8Ph
— David Piccini (@DavidPiccini) November 20, 2024
David Piccini, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, emphasized the importance of protecting newcomers from predatory practices. “Struggling to navigate a confusing federal immigration system, many newcomers put their trust in immigration representatives – many 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 said.
The proposed legislation includes strict penalties for fraudulent behavior, including multi-year bans and lifetime bans for those convicted of serious offences like human trafficking or withholding passports. Additionally, representatives who counsel or engage in fraud could face fines, bans of up to 10 years, or other penalties under the Ontario Immigration Act, 2015.
The government plans to expand its authority to issue fines for misrepresentation, raising the stakes for dishonest practices. Administrative penalties for representatives and employers who violate the Act have already been increased, with fines jumping from $2,000 to $10,000.
This initiative is part of Ontario’s broader Working for Workers reforms, which have been implemented through five legislative packages since 2021. The province’s efforts aim to make Ontario a safer and fairer place for newcomers, while maintaining its reputation as a top destination for immigrants.
Further details of the proposed legislation and its implementation are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
For more information on the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program and the province’s actions against immigration fraud, visit Ontario.ca.
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