Improving practice: Insights from IAA pilot of onsite inspections
The Immigration Advisers Authority ran a pilot to test on-site inspections. We visited several Licensed Immigration Advisers (LIAs) at their offices to talk about their practices and check client file records.
The pilot focused on how advisers engage with clients, use written agreements, and charge reasonable fees.
Following the pilot, the Authority has decided to carry out on-site inspections as part of the licensing process wherever possible.
What we found
During the pilot, we identified the following key issues:
- Some advisers relied too much on third parties like agents, employers or family members. This limited their direct contact with clients.
- Some written agreements were missing important details, such as adviser identification, proof of licensing, and confirmation that professional responsibilities had been discussed
- A few advisers did not declare conflicts of interest when they represented both the employer and the employee.
- All advisers involved in the pilot were open to improving their practices and we are very appreciative of their participation.
Reminders for advisers
The Authority reminds all Licensed Immigration Advisers to:
- keep records of all communications, including WhatsApp messages with clients and third parties
- have direct engagement with the client to ensure you meet your professional obligations, particularly, under clauses 1 and 2(e) of the Code
- use interpreters or refer clients to other advisers when language barriers exist.