Ontario Proposes Tougher Measures to Tackle Immigration Fraud

Brampton, November 20, 2024 – The Ontario government is taking decisive action to combat immigration scams that exploit newcomers and jeopardize their futures. A new bill, if passed, will introduce rigorous standards and enforceable penalties for immigration representatives involved in Ontario’s Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The measures aim to protect vulnerable immigrants and maintain the integrity of Ontario’s immigration system.

New Standards to Protect Newcomers

The proposed legislation will establish clear guidelines for immigration representatives assisting with OINP applications. Representatives will be required to maintain transparency and accountability by:

• Signing written contracts with applicants.
• Providing proof of their registration or licensing.
• Keeping applicants informed about the status of their applications.
• Ensuring applicants have direct access to their files.

These measures will enhance trust and reduce the risk of exploitation.

Tougher Penalties for Violators

The bill proposes severe consequences for representatives who commit fraud or other serious offenses:

• Three to ten-year bans for fraud-related activities.
• Lifetime bans for those convicted of serious crimes such as human trafficking or withholding passports.
• Expanded authority for imposing fines on representatives for misrepresentation, regardless of payment for services.

These penalties build on prior efforts, including increasing the minimum fines for dishonest actors from $2,000 to $10,000.

Addressing Broader Challenges

The legislation is part of Ontario’s ongoing Working for Workers Act series, which has introduced groundbreaking reforms since 2021. Recent initiatives include expanding pathways for healthcare workers and removing discriminatory work experience requirements for regulated professions. By prioritizing immigrants’ contributions, Ontario aims to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.

Community and Leadership Support

Key figures across Ontario expressed strong support for the initiative:

• David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, emphasized the moral duty to protect immigrants:
  “Many newcomers trust representatives to guide them through a complex federal immigration system. This legislation will safeguard their trust and hold bad actors accountable.”
• Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, praised the government’s commitment to protecting newcomers in one of Canada’s most diverse cities.
• Sara Asalya, Executive Director of Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto, highlighted the bill’s potential to foster a fairer immigration system.

Quick Facts

• The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reported 153 charges related to fraudulent immigration consultants between May 2019 and April 2024.
• In 2023, Ontario nominated 2,045 healthcare workers through the OINP, addressing critical labor shortages.
• Ontario is investing $100 million in 2024-25 to provide newcomers with language training, settlement services, and employment opportunities.

Moving Forward

With these proposed changes, Ontario aims to set a benchmark for immigration protection and fairness. The government is committed to ensuring that newcomers can build their futures in the province without fear of exploitation, while maintaining a robust and transparent immigration system that benefits all Ontarians.