Canada: New Immigration Oversight Framework Proposed in Alberta

The province of Alberta has introduced Bill 26, the Immigration Oversight Act, which proposes expanding provincial oversight of immigration-related activities. If passed, the legislation would establish new regulatory frameworks for employers, foreign worker recruiters and immigration consultants, with the stated objectives of increasing transparency and reducing the mistreatment of newcomers. 

 Under the proposal, employers seeking to hire temporary foreign workers would be required to register with the province before accessing federal programs, such as obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment. The bill would also introduce a licensing system for immigration consultants and foreign worker recruiters, alongside a set of prohibited practices applicable to all three groups. These prohibitions target conduct such as misrepresented or fraudulent job offers and charging unauthorized fees, among others.  Bill 26 would also grant Alberta new enforcement powers to investigate potential violations and impose penalties, including monetary fines, license suspensions, registration restrictions, and bans from hiring or recruiting. In more serious cases, offenses could result in court-imposed imprisonment. The legislation would also establish a formal complaints and review process, and a public registry enabling workers and the public to verify whether employers, recruiters and consultants are authorized to operate.  

If enacted, the Immigration Oversight Act would come into force upon proclamation. Further details, including the operation of the registry and licensing systems and the structure of penalties, would be set out in subsequent regulations. A timeline for passage has not yet been confirmed, although the bill is expected to proceed. 

 This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.