You do not have to hire a representative to make an immigration application. If you choose paid help, check the person’s authorization and the proposed scope before you pay. A professional website, company registration, social-media following, or office address is not proof of a licence.
Verify the individual, not just the business
Use the College’s public register for immigration consultants, or the appropriate law society or Quebec notary regulator for other authorized representatives. Check the name, number, current status, entitlement to practise, and any restrictions.
Use the contact details on the regulator’s record to verify that you are dealing with that person. This helps distinguish a genuine professional from someone using another person’s identity or licence number. If the details do not match, resolve the discrepancy before proceeding.
Understand who will do what
Ask who is responsible for immigration advice, preparing the application, submitting it, and monitoring correspondence. Education agents, employers, translators, and settlement providers have different roles and authorizations.
If the matter involves a tribunal, court proceeding, Quebec-specific representation, or another specialist area, confirm the professional can handle that work. A general immigration engagement should not imply authority for every type of proceeding.
Get the terms in writing
Read the service agreement before signing. It should explain the work, fees, payments, responsibilities, and relevant terms. Ask about government fees, translations, medical examinations, testing, and other third-party costs.
Clarify how to contact the professional, how you receive copies, what happens if the scope changes, and how to end the engagement. Keep the signed agreement, invoices, receipts, and your application documents. Never sign blank forms.
Keep control of the facts in your application
Review the information submitted in your name. Tell the professional about previous applications, refusals, and material changes. Ask for an explanation when a statement does not reflect your circumstances.
No professional can guarantee approval, a faster government decision, a job, or admission. Refuse requests to fabricate documents or omit relevant information. If you have concerns, use the regulator’s official complaints information and obtain independent advice where appropriate.
Your planning checklist
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Official sources
This guide is general information. Check current official requirements and obtain advice for your circumstances before acting. It is not a substitute for a professional review.