Before hiring an immigration consultant in Canada, learn how to verify an immigration consultant’s licence (RCIC) and check the CICC Public Register.
Before hiring a Canadian immigration consultant, learn how to verify an RCIC’s licence and check the regulator’s Public Register. Confirm that the person is authorized to provide the immigration advice or representation you need before paying for services.
Arnika Visa is led by MohammadReza Eslami, RCIC R710241. You can verify an immigration consultant by checking the individual’s name, licence number and current status in the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) Public Register. Always use the regulator’s official register rather than relying only on a website, social-media profile, business card or claimed association.
The College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) regulates Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) and Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in the public interest. The College’s role is to regulate its licensees. It does not provide immigration advice, process immigration applications or decide the outcome of an application.
The College succeeded the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) in 2021. Regulator names, rules and public guidance can change, so consult the College’s current official information when checking a professional’s status or learning about its processes.
Canadian immigration advice or representation for a fee or other benefit must be provided by someone authorized to do so. This may include a licensee of the CICC, a member of a Canadian law society, or a member of the Chambre des notaires du Québec. If you are unsure which regulator applies to a professional, verify their status directly with the relevant regulator.
Ask for a written service agreement before work begins. Make sure it clearly identifies the professional providing the service and describes the work included, fees and payment terms, possible additional costs, and the terms for ending the agreement or requesting a refund.
Ask who will work on your file, who your main contact will be, how you will receive updates, and whether you will receive copies of forms and documents submitted on your behalf. Keep a signed copy of the agreement, invoices, receipts and relevant correspondence.
Scammers may target people who are applying to visit, study, work, or immigrate to Canada. No representative can guarantee that an immigration application will be approved or that a particular processing time will be met. Immigration decisions are made by the responsible authorities. Be cautious of anyone claiming special influence, promising a guaranteed visa, or bundling immigration representation with a guaranteed job offer.
Immigration consulting and recruitment are different services and may be subject to different rules. Before paying for job placement or recruitment, verify that the provider is authorized to offer that service in the relevant jurisdiction.
If you believe a representative has acted improperly, review the regulator’s current complaint guidance and follow its official process. Keep relevant records, including agreements, payment evidence, messages and copies of application documents. This page provides general information and does not determine whether a particular person has breached professional obligations.
If you have received a refusal, our Canada visa refusal guide explains common refusal concerns. If you are considering another application, read our guide to reapplying after a Canada visa refusal.