Using a Registered Migration Agent
Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA)
Applying to migrate to Australia is a complex process and to be granted a visa you must satisfy the lawful requirements of the Department of Immigration & citizenship (DIAC). If you do decide to appoint a migration agent to represent you, DIAC strongly advise that the agent is a member of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).
Registered Migration Agents are highly skilled professionals and act in the same manner as that of an accountant or solicitor and must keep a professional library reflecting current migration legislation and policy plus annually provide evidence of continual professional development. This is a mandatory requirement of MARA who oversee the code of conduct and good standing of registered agents to ensure accountability to the professional body.
The MARA issues a document entitled Information on the Regulation of the Migration Advice Profession which will help you to understand the benefits of choosing a Registered Migration Agent. This document also outlines procedures for you to lodge a formal complaint against a registered agent if the code of conduct was not applied or if you have been misrepresented. It is a legal requirement for a registered agent to forward a copy of this document to you. If you engage a company that does not have a registered agent you will not be covered by this protection.
Grahame Igglesden - Registered Migration Agent 9901024
Grahame Igglesden is a Registered Migration Agent [9901024] and is responsible for administering the code of conduct regulated by MARA. Additionally, senior partners within Concept Australia can demonstrate considerable experience with the Australian Government and are therefore conversant with the high standards of professionalism and integrity demanded by their previous positions within a government environment. Appointing Concept Australia will therefore give you peace of mind that you are being represented by a company whose registered migration agent and staff will apply a professional code of conduct at all times and provide advice and assistance strictly within MARA guidelines.
What should I look for in a registered migration agent?
It is recommended that you:
- Ensure that the Registered Migration Agent is based permanently in the UK
- Enquire about the background and historical operation of the company
- Determine how the staff acquired their knowledge
- Find out what services will be provided throughout the visa process.).
- Obtain in writing a quote for all fees payable.
- Seek a guarantee that there are no hidden disbursements
- Discuss the success rate achieved on behalf of clients
Realistic Expectations
A registered agent is unable to seek preferential treatment with DIAC or other government agencies including assessing authorities?
This question is often raised by applicants and to read some of the comments expressed on chat-site forums you may have formed the impression that migration agents can influence decisions. This is not the case and you should be mindful of any promises that cannot be delivered.
A migration agent registered or otherwise is unable to arrange priority processing on your behalf, personally arrange with a DIAC case officer for you to jump the queue or make you eligible if you are not. All applications are processed in chronological date order and according to priority deemed by the Minister.
A knowledgeable and professional migration agent can, however, prepare your case in accordance with migration regulations and an accurate submission with all relevant documents held on file will enable the DIAC case officer to assess your application more quickly at the processing stage.
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