Choosing someone to help with a Canadian immigration or citizenship matter is an important decision. Before paying for advice, confirm that the person is authorized and understand what a representative can—and cannot—promise.
Who may provide paid Canadian immigration advice?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) explains that paid representatives must be authorized. This generally includes immigration consultants who are members in good standing of the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), lawyers or paralegals who are members in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society, and Quebec notaries in good standing.
You do not have to hire a representative to submit an application. Government forms and instructions are available without charge. If you decide to use professional help, verification is one of the most important first steps.
Step 1: Search the CICC Public Register
The CICC Public Register is the official record of Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs). Search using the consultant’s name, College ID or company information. Review the licence status and any disciplinary information shown in the record.
Future Dreams Immigration is led by RCICs Onkar Singh (R709870) and Gurinder Singh (R710095). Prospective clients should independently confirm every consultant’s current status in the Public Register before retaining services.
Step 2: Confirm the identity matches
Compare the name and licence number in the Public Register with the consultant’s website, service agreement, invoices and communications. Be cautious if someone uses another person’s licence number, avoids providing a licence number or asks you to deal only through an unverified intermediary.
Step 3: Expect a written service agreement
Before work begins, ask for a written agreement that explains the services, professional fees, expected additional costs, payment schedule, responsibilities of both parties and how the relationship may be ended. Read the agreement and ask questions before signing it. Keep copies of the agreement, receipts and important correspondence.
Step 4: Be cautious about guarantees
No representative can guarantee that an application will be approved or that IRCC will process it within a particular time. Decisions are made by Canadian immigration authorities under the applicable law, program requirements and the evidence submitted. A responsible representative should discuss eligibility, risks, documentation and possible outcomes without promising a result.
Step 5: Review your application carefully
IRCC states that applicants are responsible for the information in their applications even when a representative prepares or submits the material. Review forms and supporting documents carefully, disclose relevant facts honestly and never sign a blank form. Ask for a complete copy of the final submission for your records.
Official resources
- CICC Public Register
- IRCC: Using an immigration and citizenship representative
- IRCC: Use of a Representative (IMM 5476) instructions
Speak with a regulated consultant in Brampton
Future Dreams Immigration serves clients in Brampton, the Greater Toronto Area and internationally. An initial discussion can help identify the relevant immigration pathway and the information required for a proper assessment.
Important: This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Immigration rules, forms and procedures can change. Always consult the current official government sources or obtain advice based on your specific circumstances.
Reviewed by: Onkar Singh, RCIC R709870 and Gurinder Singh, RCIC R710095
Last reviewed: August 21, 2026