Before acquiring the services of an immigration adviser, it is important to understand the difference between a Regulated Immigration Adviser and an unauthorized provider of immigration services. Regulated Immigration Advisers are required to abide by a strict Code of Conduct. Authorized Representatives (AR) have the training, experience, and the professional knowledge to assist immigration clients effectively.
ARs are accountable to their respective regulators, and are required to abide by the regulator’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. E.g. as RCICs, Immigration Consultants are regulated by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council [ICCRC], and are governed by the ICCRC Code of Professional Ethics.
Additionally, CAPIC members are subject to a robust set of CAPIC By-laws and Code of Ethics. There will be numerous benefits associated with utilizing the services of a Regulated Adviser and serious risks associated with utilizing the services of these unauthorized providers.
If you are looking to obtain the services from a RCIC, look at the Council’s list of members to ensure he or she is regulated by the Council – if his or her name is not on the list, he or she is NOT authorized. The up-to-date list will be accessible on the Council’s website.