Warning regarding immigration scam.

York Regional Police wants to warn everyone regarding an immigration scam in the region.

Between 2006 and 2007, a man represented himself as an immigration consultant working from a Newmarket office and was offering his services to fill out paperwork to bring the relatives of victims to Canada.

One victim made an initial payment of $2,500 and a second $7,500 in order to get his services, but the victims never received any follow-up information from the suspect, said the police.

When the victims tried to find the suspect, they found that the office was closed and the phones were disconnected. Even the police officials were unsuccessful in finding the suspect.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada provides these tips to keep in mind when considering using an immigration representative:

1. There is no necessity to hire an immigration representative in order to apply for Canadian citizenship.
2. Immigration representatives do not have any special connections with the government officials and there is no way they can guarantee you a visa. Only the authorized officers at the Canadian embassies, high commissions, and consulates can decide whether you will get a visa or not.
3. DO NOT be tempted to use false documents as this will automatically result in the refusal of your application.
4. Beware of the Internet Scams and fake websites. Directly go to the website of Citizenship and Immigration Canada, www.cic.ga.ca where you will find free application forms and required guidance.
5. Processing fees are the same at all Canadian visa offices throughout the world.
6. Canadian visa offices will never ask you to deposit money into the personal bank account of any individual or to transfer money through private money Transfer Company.
7. If you have queries, then contact CIC or the visa office responsible for your area.