How do I know which Australian immigration agents I can trust?

Mon, 04th December 2023

Many people have had bad experiences with dishonest Australian immigration agents. Sometimes, these people end up with no money left in their bank accounts, and even worse, they get deported because the visa they thought was real turned out to be fake!

To make sure you're dealing with a legit immigration agent, check if they are listed on the Office of Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) website. If you can't find them there, it's best to walk away and not deal with them.

There are also other signs of fake agents, like making false promises or telling outright lies. Some common lies include:

• 1. "I guarantee you'll get a visa." No one can guarantee that except authorized Australian immigration officers.
• 2. "Pay now to register for the migration program." You only pay for your visa application when you actually submit it.
• 3. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity." Be wary of agents who call offering visas as a special opportunity; they might just be trying to take your money!
• 4. "I can pay the charges for you." You can pay your own visa application charge, and a legitimate agent will never insist on handling your money without your consent.
• 5. "I have a special relationship with the Department of Home Affairs." Nobody has a special relationship; all visa applications are treated fairly.
• 6. "I am a skilled migration service provider/Australian Government registered/department registered." Only trust agents with a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN).
• 7. "Don't worry, the Department of Home Affairs is still processing your visa." Always ask for written confirmation of your application's progress, and if the agent can't provide it, contact the Department of Home Affairs directly for feedback.
• 8. "I need to keep your original documents." Usually, the Department of Home Affairs only wants certified copies, so be cautious about giving away your original documents to prevent identity fraud.

Remember to be cautious and verify the legitimacy of any immigration agent to avoid falling victim to scams.

What To Do Next?

If your intention is to relocate to Australia/Canada seeking assistance from specialists at SIEC could prove beneficial, given their extensive knowledge of Australian visas and skill assessments. We are the highly Certified MARA Agents listed on the Register of Migration agents and is licensed to provide legal immigration assistance for individuals wanting to migrate overseas and have the capacity to provide comprehensive support throughout the entire journey.