Dangers Of Using Unlicensed Agents: From Visa Refusal, Bans, Unseen Debts—Protect Yourself!

Individuals when pursuing their dreams of studying or immigrating to Canada often seek assistance from study/PR agents or representatives.

Unfortunately, not all of these professionals operate within the legal framework. Unlicensed agents may promise easy and quick solutions, exploiting the vulnerability of applicants who are unfamiliar with the complex immigration system.

Our client Sikat (name changed for privacy), with ample funds to sponsor herself, sought the guidance of an agent for her study permit application. Tragically, the unlicensed agent advised that she use her uncle as a sponsor, even though she lacked the necessary documents to prove their relationship. Compounding the issue, Sikat’s uncle did not possess the financial means to support her application.

Additionally, the agent suggested she stay with a family member in Canada, despite her ability to afford her own place. In the end, she was unable to provide satisfactory details regarding her relationship with this family member, casting doubts on her application's credibility, and due to a lack of strong study planning, her initial application for a study permit was refused.

In need of expert guidance, she approached our consultancy for assistance and booked our Visa refusal service. The first thing we did was request a GCMS note to review the details and reasons for the refusal which explained what the officer's concerns were, then proceeded to address those concerns in a reapplication, putting forward a strong argument of how she met the requirement to apply for study permit in Canada and submitted the application.

Visa Refusal Management Service

Months later we received a procedural fairness letter (PFL) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stating that she owed money to the government. To her surprise, the application fee paid on her behalf by the previous unlicensed agent had been disputed by the financial institution, leading to a reversal of the payment and such a situation could potentially result in a 5-year ban on her application.

We moved to make a strong case for her, submitting all chats, screenshots, and emails between her and her former representative as proof that she didn't handle the previous application herself, and after a year and some months, her application was approved!

Studying or immigrating to Canada is an exciting opportunity for many individuals. However, it is essential to navigate the process carefully and choose reliable and licensed representatives to avoid potential pitfalls.

Now here are three reasons why you should NEVER use an unlicensed agent:

• Misinformation and Misrepresentation: Unlicensed agents may provide incorrect or misleading information, leading applicants down the wrong path. And as an applicant, you should always remember that in Canada you are at the risk of a 5-year ban for using an unlicensed agent and any misrepresentation that the unlicensed representative includes in your application and sends to IRCC.

• Lack of Expertise and Knowledge: Licensed representatives undergo rigorous training and possess up-to-date knowledge of immigration laws and processes. Unlicensed agents may lack the necessary expertise, leaving applicants vulnerable to errors, delays, and potential legal issues.

• Financial Exploitation: Unlicensed agents often charge excessive fees for their services, taking advantage of applicants' lack of understanding of the standard costs involved. Applicants may end up paying exorbitant fees without receiving the promised services or achieving the desired outcomes.

When in doubt always remember that you can find out for yourself if your agent is licensed or not.

Have you recently been refused a visiting visa, study permit, work visa, or even permanent residency? Speak to a licensed consultant, and if you still aren't sure what pathway to choose, book a Consultation with one of our consultants who can assess your eligibility and advise on the best option for you.