Migration Agent

WHY USE A MIGRATION AGENT

Australia’s migration rules are complex and subject to frequent change. If you are a potential migrant you can get an assessment of your chances of success by consulting a migration agent. And if you decide to make an application to migrate, an agent can make the whole process easier and more effective.
Careful assessment before lodging an application could mean important savings in time, cost and effort. For example, an application may only be made under one visa or migration category at any one time. And an application which is declined under one category cannot be considered under another. So a fresh application is required, which means new documentation and another fee.
Chances of acceptance increase greatly when a careful assessment is made of an individual’s or a family’s circumstances, so that the correct category is chosen for application.
The agent will also follow up with the processing office after lodgment to minimize delays and comply with documentation requests. The agent will also keep you informed about the status of the application and about any relevant changes to policy or regulations that could affect the outcome.

HOW TO CHOOSE AN AGENT

Given the advantages of dealing with a migration agent what should a client look for in appointing an agent?

There are several things:

• EXPERIENCE

Ask questions about their experience in dealing with your type of case, their fees and payment arrangements, whether they practice as migration consultants on a full-time basis or whether they are involved in other professional activities as well. Do not hesitate to ask about their success rates.

• CONTRACT/ENGAGEMENT LETTER

Seek a written contract or engagement letter from the agent. This should include such matters as the class of visa to be applied for, the agents fee, payment schedule and services provided.

• SETTLEMENT ASSISTANCE

Your MIA registered agent, being Australian based, is well placed to provided valuable assistance and contacts to assist your successful settlement in Australia. These may include banks, accountants, lawyers, real estate agents, education specialists,
Government Departments and Chambers of Commerce.
Having gone through the above process to select an agent you can feel confident your case is in good hands. If a problem arises and you believe the agent has not demonstrated a sufficient degree of professional competence or integrity, then do not hesitate to complain to MARA.
Please remember that if you deal with an unregistered offshore agent you are taking a real risk. Such persons are not accountable to any Australian authority for their actions and have not had to demonstrate any knowledge of Australian migration policy and procedures.