Do I need to use a migration agent?
There is no requirement for you to use a migration agent to lodge your visa application, however, if you are not familiar with the process or feel don’t feel confident that you understand your options and can adequately manage your application, it would be advisable for you to seek professional assistance.
Australian Immigration Law is very complex and is constantly being amended, so engaging the services of a registered agent could save you time and a lot of money on refused applications.
What is meant by registered migration agent?
Migration Agents who operate within Australia, must be registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA). They must attend training sessions each year to maintain their current knowledge of the legislation, among other requirements to be eligible to re register each year. Migration Agents operating in Australia must also display their registration number.
However a person operating as a Migration Agent outside of Australia does not have to be registered with any regulatory body.
It is highly advisable that you select an agent who is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) for your protection.
How can a migration agent assist me?
Qualified migration agents are skilled and knoweldgeable in at least, but not limited to, the following areas;
- advising what visa class may best suit your case
- assist with, or complete appropriate documentation in support of your case
- advise on the appropriate completion of supporting or required documentation and forms
- accurately prepare your case file for presentation to DIAC for review
- submit your application and supporting documentation, whilst communicating with DIAC and other required bodies on your behalf
- provide additional or subsequent advise on more complex cases or matters
- assist and advise with any subsequent reviews or re-applications, if needed
How do I find a migration agent?
Migration agents operating within Australia are required by law to be registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA). Registered migration agents can be found on this website or at the following sites;
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| Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) http://www.mia.org.au |
Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) http://www.themara.com.au |
The Yellow Pages http://yellowpages.com.au |
The OMARA website also lists discaplined and de-registered agents, before engaging any agent you should confirm their current registration status. It is in your interest to use a registered migration agent, migration agents are bound by law to act in the best interests of their client with stiff penalties, including imprisonment, for breaches of these requirements.
What should I expect from a migration agent?
All migration agents have a requirement to;
- provide you with written advice about the fee's charged and exactly what services will be delivered
- to act professionally and in a timely manner
- abide by the Migration Agents' Code of Conduct
How do I engage and appoint a migration agent?
You will need to authorise your selected migration agent to act on your behalf before they can commence working for you.
Your Registered Migration Agent will then provide you with a written agreement outlining all fees, the visa you are applying for and all terms and conditions.
Your agent require you to sign forms or letters to advise the required professional bodies that they will act on your behalf.
How much does a migration agent cost?
Migration Agent fee structures vary, depending on the services offered. there is no set or regulated fee structure. More information regarding fee's may be obtained directly from your selected migration agent or general information is available at the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authory website.
