Why use a Migration Agent?
You are not legally required to use a Migration Agent to apply for any visa. However, for what maybe one of the biggest decisions of your life, and one which can affect your family and loved ones, it is wise to consider obtaining skilled and professional assistance. If you decide to engage a migration agent, you should use a Migration Agent who is registered with the Office of the Migration Agents' Registration Authority (MARA). In Australia, it is illegal to provide migration advice and assistance without being registered with MARA.
When you use the services of a registered migration agent, you can be assured that the person has met MARA's rigorous conditions for registration. Registered migration agents are legally required to:
- pass character tests
- comply with MARA's Code of Conduct
- hold the prerequisite Australian Migration Law qualifications
- maintain professional legal library and current knowledge of Australian Migration Law
Using a migration agent may be optional, but consider the benefits of engaging one:
- maximise your chance of success in your skills assessment, sponsorship and visa applications
- minimise potential problems and delays that can result from a lack of knowledge in Australian migration law & procedure
- take advantage of professional guidance on procedural matters
If your visa application is straightforward and you would prefer to manage these processes yourself, information is available from the Department of Immigration And Citizenship.