Unregulated adviser sentenced for providing unlawful services
Sebastian Valencia Jefferson was sentenced on Friday 6 December 2024 at Manchester Crown Court.
Sebastian Valencia Jefferson, 47, pleaded guilty on 17 September 2024 at Manchester Magistrates’ Court to 11 counts of providing unregulated immigration advice and services, contrary to Section 91 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. On 6 December 2024, he was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for 12 months, along with 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days, 150 hours of unpaid work, and a personal financial contribution. His company, Proxima Consulting Group Ltd, also received a fine.
As the sole director and shareholder of Proxima Consulting Group Ltd, Jefferson additionally pleaded guilty on the company’s behalf to the same charges.
John Tuckett, Immigration Services Commissioner, said:
“This outcome sends a clear message that providing immigration advice and services without proper authorisation will not be tolerated.
“Unregulated advisers put vulnerable individuals at risk, and we remain committed to working with our partners to investigate and bring offenders to justice.
“Together, we are safeguarding the public and ensuring the integrity of the immigration system. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who played a role in achieving this outcome.”
Between February 2021 and March 2023, Jefferson, operating through Proxima Consulting Group Ltd, submitted numerous immigration and nationality applications to the Home Office, primarily serving members of the Iranian community in North West England. During this period, he advertised his services openly on the company’s website and social media, despite knowing he was not authorised to provide immigration advice or services under UK law.
The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) was alerted by the Home Office to multiple applications linked to Jefferson, who lacked the required qualifications and authorisation. A thorough investigation, including a search of Proxima Consulting Group Ltd’s Manchester premises, was carried out in collaboration with the Home Office and Greater Manchester Police.
To make sure you’re getting professional immigration advice you can trust, always check your adviser is registered with the OISC. To search for a regulated adviser, you can use our online adviser finder and register.