Facing imminent deportation from Canada, over 700 Indian students received a devastating blow when they discovered that the admission offer letters from their educational institutions were fake. The entire situation surfaced when the Canadian Border Service Agency (CBSA) scrutinized the documents used for student visas when they applied for PR in Canada. The CBSA revealed that these letters were not genuine.
The majority of these students arrived in Canada for their studies during 2018 and 2019. The most disheartening aspect is that many had finished their studies, obtained Canadian work permits, and gained work experience in the country.
As reported by the Toronto Star, these students had applied for study visas through Education Migration Services based in Jalandhar. The consulting firm, led by Brijesh Mishra, had charged students substantial amounts to manage tuition fees, and college and visa application fees. Following this revelation, the company's office in Jalandhar shut down abruptly, and Mishra disappeared without a trace.
In fact, only licensed lawyers and consultants registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) are legally authorized to offer immigration advice and services for a fee. Education agents must also hold a valid license from the CICC to operate within the confines of the law.
Unfortunately, some education agents take advantage of students who are eager to study and work in Canada for a chance to obtain PR. These agents operate without a license, do not sign contracts, and accept fees in cash.
During a community radio program, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser expressed concerns about certain promoters challenging to regulate within Canada and exploiting international students. He stated, "It's disheartening to witness the conduct of certain promoters around the world.
The Indian students became victims of a practice often referred to as a "ghost consultant." These are unlicensed immigration representatives or individuals posing as representatives from educational institutions. Services are offered to international students in exchange for a fee, but they get abandoned or "ghosted" after payment. This form of fraud is prevalent among students pursuing various permits and residency in Canada.
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Scammers know that international students often seek part-time work to support their studies, making them targets for fake job offers. These offers might involve jobs students didn't even apply for or invitations from recruiters asking for fees or personal details.
Some scammers exploit international students' housing needs by offering fake accommodations before they arrive in Canada. They demand an upfront fee and then vanish, leaving students either homeless or in severely inadequate living conditions.
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Remember, it's crucial to be cautious when encountering suspicious offers. For instance, receiving a high-paying job offer you didn't apply for might be a scam.
When uncertain about a threatening automated call, email, or text, it's advisable to hang up and locate the organization's contact details. Then, call them directly to confirm and verify the situation.
While social media can sometimes be deceiving, it's important to note that it's not a reliable source for finding immigration consultants or representatives. Scammers frequently pose as immigration service providers or government agencies on these platforms, making it harder to verify their authenticity.
International students pursuing studies in Canada face diverse challenges, from deceptive housing and job offers to complex immigration procedures. The support and expertise of an experienced immigration lawyer can make a significant difference, ensuring a smooth and error-free immigration journey for international students.
ImmiLaw Global is a Canadian licensed immigration firm with a proficient team of expert counselors and experienced immigration lawyers. Our specialized expertise guarantees personalized guidance for students exploring global study opportunities.
For any assistance needed regarding studying abroad or immigration purposes, contact us today.
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