CBSA Investigation Leads to Conviction of Unauthorized Immigration Consultant in Canada

Unauthorized Ontario Immigration Consultant Convicted After CBSA Investigation

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) continues to uphold the integrity of Canada’s immigration system by prosecuting individuals who engage in fraudulent activities targeting new immigrants. Maneet ‘Mani’ Malhotra, a resident of Ontario, recently pleaded guilty in an Edmonton courtroom to one count under section 91 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) for providing immigration services without legal authorization.

In 2019, the CBSA initiated an investigation into Malhotra and her Edmonton-based business, NAMI Immigration Inc., following a referral from the Government of Alberta’s Temporary Foreign Worker Advisory Office. It was revealed that Malhotra had charged two clients $30,000 and $45,000 for arranging employment in Alberta, only to subject them to a fraudulent scheme involving fake job offers and forged documents.

The investigation uncovered further instances where Malhotra unlawfully provided immigration services, which included fabricating job offers and submitting forged documents to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Despite not meeting the requirements under IRPA to provide immigration-related services, Malhotra continued to operate her business without proper authorization.

On April 8, 2024, Malhotra pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to an 18-month conditional sentence, including six months of house arrest. Additionally, she was ordered to pay $148,000 in victim restitution.

Janalee Bell-Boychuk, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, CBSA, emphasized the agency’s commitment to dismantling fraudulent immigration schemes and protecting the integrity of Canada’s borders. She urged members of the public to report suspicious immigration activities to the CBSA to safeguard potential immigrants from exploitation.

Section 91 of the IRPA prohibits individuals from providing immigration advice for a fee unless authorized to do so. The CBSA, responsible for identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in immigration fraud, encourages the public to use resources available on IRCC’s website to protect themselves against fraud and obtain accurate information about immigration programs.

Suspicious activities like this can be reported to CBSA by contacting them at 1-888-502-9060.

As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, it’s disheartening to see cases of exploitation within our immigration system. Malhotra’s actions not only jeopardized the well-being of her clients but also undermined the integrity of Canada’s immigration processes. It’s imperative for individuals seeking immigration services to verify the credentials of consultants and ensure they are authorized to provide such services. Seeking assistance from reputable and licensed professionals can prevent falling victim to fraudulent schemes and ensure a smooth immigration journey.

Here’s How Immigration Consultant Regina Spreading awareness to ensuring Client Protection

At Connect Overseas Immigration Services Inc., we understand the significance of protecting clients and ensuring they receive competent and reliable immigration services. As an immigration consultant in Regina, Gurpreet Singh Brar strives to educate and raise awareness among clients and the public about the benefits of utilizing the services of licensed consultants like himself.

The Importance of Using Licensed Consultants:

Licensed Immigration consultants, such as Gurpreet Singh Brar, undergo rigorous training and adhere to strict ethical standards set by regulatory bodies. By choosing a licensed consultant, clients can trust that they are receiving accurate and lawful immigration advice.

Key Practices to Safeguard Clients and general public:

1. Proper Documentation: We emphasize the importance of signing retainer agreements and using representative forms correctly. This ensures that clients understand the scope of services provided and their rights as represented individuals.

2. Privacy Protection: We prioritize client confidentiality and ensure that all personal information remains secure and protected throughout the immigration process.

3. Transparency and Communication: We maintain open and transparent communication with clients, keeping them informed about the progress of their applications and addressing any concerns promptly.

4. Avoiding Fraudulent Practices: Through our blogs and educational resources, we educate clients about the risks associated with unauthorized consultants or “ghost consultants.” We encourage clients to ask questions, verify credentials, and avoid cash payments to safeguard themselves from potential fraud.

Spreading Awareness and Advocating for Client Rights:

Through our blogs and outreach efforts, we aim to shed light on the flaws within the immigration system and empower clients to make informed decisions about their immigration journey. We advocate for transparency, accountability, and the protection of client rights, ensuring that clients receive the quality services they deserve.

At Connect Overseas Immigration Services Inc., we are dedicated to educating individuals on the importance of utilizing the expertise of regulated professionals to protect them from such incidents. This ensures a smooth and stress-free immigration experience. With a licensed and reputable consultant like Gurpreet Singh Brar, clients can confidently navigate the complexities of the immigration process with peace of mind.