Choosing a Migration Agent

It can be difficult to negotiate Australia’s complex and evolving immigration laws and policy. There are more than 100 visa sub-classes for temporary visitors to Australia, plus various pathways to permanent residence, so it is important to get the right advice.

In Australia, migration agents must be registered to provide immigration assistance services. Once registered, a good adviser can help a client’s chances by selecting the most appropriate visa, properly preparing the application with all necessary evidence and representing the case effectively during processing.

The Migration Institute of Australia, as the professional body , sets the highest standards of practice for their members.

“It can be confusing knowing whether you are getting what you’re paying for. The best way is to ask whether your advisor is a member of the Institute. Our members are all registered migration agents who have to abide by a Code of Ethics as well as the compulsory Code of Conduct.” says Maurene Horder, CEO of the Institute.

To be registered, migration agents must demonstrate sound knowledge of migration law and practice, and they must continually update their knowledge.

Registered migration advice practitioners who are members of the peak professional body, the Migration Institute of Australia, are committed to the highest professional and ethical standards. This gives clients an extra level of confidence in the conduct and advice of their migration consultant.

People seeking migration advice should check an agent’s background. Registered migration agents have a Certificate and registration number issued by the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (Office of the MARA) and requiring annual renewal.

Using an unregistered person can be risky. Their standards of knowledge and ethics are not subject to the checks and scrutiny of registered agents. They are also less likely to hold professional indemnity insurance which covers applicants’ claims in cases of negligence.

A registered migration agent must provide written advice about the fee they will charge and the service they will provide. They must also abide by the industry’s Code of Conduct which includes requirements on high ethical standards and professional business practices. Visa applicants can be assured that any behaviour that breaks these standards is not tolerated by the profession.

Education agents representing Australian education and training institutions are not regulated and should not be confused with the services provided by a registered migration agent. An education agent should disclose to clients if they are receiving a commission so clients are aware of any potential conflicts of interest. Remember, only registered migration agents are legally allowed to give migration advice.

Registered migration agents are not Immigration officials. They can advise on the probability of success but cannot 'guarantee' that a client will get a visa. Using a skilled professional who knows their way around the migration system means that visa applicants have a greater chance of meeting Government requirements.

Visa requirements change frequently. Recent changes to Australia’s skilled migration program mean that business people are being processed according to priority, depending on their occupation. Occupations deemed critical for Australia’s economy are continually being reviewed and are subject to change. A migration professional has up-to-date information on these kinds of changes.

Visa applicants are one step closer to achieving the right migration outcome when using a registered migration agent who is member of the Migration Institute of Australia.

You can find a registered migration agent who is a member of the Institute here.