The Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) has launched its first national awareness campaign to protect people from fraudulent, unregulated immigration advisers.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the IAA’s role as the UK’s independent regulator of immigration advisers, while encouraging people to check that their adviser is properly authorised before trusting them with their case.
Pre‑campaign research conducted by the IAA shows that many advice seekers – particularly those facing urgent or complex immigration decisions – are unaware that immigration advisers must be regulated. This lack of awareness leaves individuals vulnerable to scams, poor-quality advice, financial loss, and serious harm to their immigration outcomes.
At the heart of the campaign is a simple message Before you trust them, check them. It encourages people to use the IAA’s free online Adviser Register, to quickly check whether an adviser is authorised to provide immigration advice.
Gaon Hart, Immigration Services Commissioner, said
People seeking immigration advice are often vulnerable and under significant pressure and it’s vital that they receive urgent expert advice. Unfortunately, that can make them targets for unregulated advisers.
This campaign gives people a simple way to protect themselves – by checking their adviser is properly authorised before placing their trust in them.
A fair and effective immigration system starts with ensuring that everyone gets the right advice, in a convenient location and with due urgency.
The IAA sets and enforces professional standards for immigration advisers and takes action against those operating illegally or providing substandard advice. By encouraging people to check an adviser’s status, the campaign aims to help individuals make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
The campaign will run nationwide across paid social media, digital platforms and out-of-home advertising, with content designed to reach people at the point they are most likely to seek help. Materials have been developed to be clear, accessible and reassuring, and are available in multiple languages to support communities across the UK.
It also supports the wider immigration advice sector by reinforcing the importance of regulation and building confidence in advisers who meet the required professional standards.
To check whether an adviser is regulated, visit the Adviser Register. To find a registered immigration adviser, use the Adviser Finder.