A Vancouver mother and daughter have been charged in connection with a fraudulent marriage scheme where foreign nationals were promised Canadian residency in exchange for money.
Vancouver police have arrested and charged a mother and daughter accused of orchestrating a marriage scam that targeted vulnerable individuals seeking permanent residency in Canada.
According to investigators, the duo allegedly accepted money from multiple victims—mostly foreign nationals—under the false promise that they would be paired with Canadian citizens in fake marriages. These sham unions were pitched as a pathway to secure immigration status in Canada.
The suspects reportedly charged thousands of dollars per arrangement and assured clients that the marriages would be processed smoothly through Canada’s immigration system. In reality, the marriages were never legally completed or were flagged by immigration authorities as suspicious.
Several victims were left out of pocket and without any immigration progress. Some also reported being threatened or coerced after demanding refunds.
Police have charged both women with:
- Fraud over $5,000
- Uttering forged documents
- Counselling to commit misrepresentation under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Authorities say more victims may still be out there and are urging them to come forward.
Canadian officials remind the public that entering into a marriage of convenience for immigration purposes is a serious offence. Victims of such schemes—especially those who paid under false pretences—are encouraged to report the incidents to law enforcement and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
