Today, at a press conference hosted at Brampton’s City Hall, Mayor of Brampton Patrick Brown joined the Honourable David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, to announce proposed legislation to protect newcomers from immigration fraud.
“After strongly advocating to other levels of government, today’s announcement is a welcomed bridge towards rebuilding hope for all newcomers, particularly the many exploited international students who placed their trust into the hands of immigration ‘consultants’. Along with the creation of the Brampton Charter for International Students and the Residential Rental Licensing Pilot, legislation enforcing the standards for immigration consultants will protect newcomers from scams and immigration fraud, and many of the challenges faced by international students will be addressed. Brampton is fighting to protect their opportunity to thrive, not just survive.”
– Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5, Chair, Community Services
If passed, the proposed legislation will establish strict standards for immigration representatives assisting with the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). It includes penalties for misconduct, such as multi-year and lifetime bans, increased fines, and requirements for transparency between representatives, employers, and applicants.
According to the 2021 Census, nearly 53 per cent of Brampton’s population was born outside of Canada. The city is home to Ontario’s third-largest immigrant population, with nearly 344,000 immigrants representing 250 ethnic origins who speak 171 different languages. As a city welcoming thousands of newcomers each year, Brampton recognizes the importance of protecting those seeking to build new lives. The proposed legislation is a crucial step toward ensuring newcomers are treated with fairness, respect, and the opportunity to thrive in Brampton and anywhere in Ontario they choose to call home.
With significant services supporting newcomers and pathways to employment, the City remains a strong advocate for programs and policies that protect and uplift its newest residents. Brampton offers a wealth of opportunities for newcomers to grow and contribute, and this legislation reinforces the City’s commitment to their well-being.
The City of Brampton welcomes the proposed legislation and applauds the proactive measures aimed at protecting newcomers from exploitation while fostering fairness, accountability, and transparency in the immigration process. Brampton is committed to collaborating with all levels of government to prevent immigration fraud.
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