Why Choose a Qualified Migration Agent?

How to Choose a Good Visa Service Provider?

While it is not a legal requirement in Australia to engage a registered visa service provider, it is advised that you do. Isn't it always better to engage someone who is qualified and really knows what they are doing, because your visa application can be a complex process - right?

There are many steps involved in obtaining a visa and you wouldn't want to make any careless errors. These could cost you dearly as your visa application may not be the best it can be; something you didn't mean to do, but did inadvertently anyway. top filipino agent australia

In Australia we normally refer to a Visa service provider as a Migration Agent. These are experts that help people to obtain a visa to enter Australia. Most Migration Agents will be qualified and should be registered with the Migration Agents Regulatory Authority.

What is the Migration Agents Regulatory Authority?

Australia has had some form of regulation in this industry for a long time now. The official body is known as the Migration Agents Regulatory Authority. The focus of the latest changes to the rules and regulations has been to remove the total self-regulation of the industry. This self regulation has caused distress to the representation of the industry, so many people haven't had put as much of their trust in these professionals as the Government would have liked.

Deciding to migrate overseas is a life-changing decision. It involves significant financial and emotional investments and it is vital they have confidence in the professionalism and integrity of their Migration Agent.

If you visit the Migration Agents Regulatory Authority website, you will find heaps of information to help you. If you know of a executive visa service provider that you would like to engage, you can do a search on the website and you will be able to find out if that person is registered or not.

As with most professions, there is a Code of Conduct that was established and monitored by the Migration Agents Regulatory Authority. education consultant australia

What is the Code of Conduct that ALL Visa Service Providers MUST abide by?

If a visa service provider does not comply with the Code of Conduct (and it is found out) then the Migration Agent may be deregistered.

There are some interesting things in the Code of Conduct that you should know. For example, Agents are required to have a high knowledge of the australian skilled migration Act and relevant Regulations. Any changes to Policies can have a massive effect on visa applications, so ensure that your Agent is up-to-date with all Policy amendments. Visa service providers are often in a position where they could easily take advantage of people who do not know all the relevant laws.

A registered agent is not permitted to act for someone if they have a conflict of interest and that includes anyone they might intend to go into business with. While there is no set fee that a australian skilled migration Agent will charge you, it is discretionary. This does not mean that they can charge whatever they like! Under the Code of Conduct they are required to charge what is reasonable in the circumstances. You should ring around and get a few quotes to ensure that you are not getting ripped off!

Skilled Migrant Work Visa.

If you are looking to apply for a skilled migration work visa, you may find the process much easier with the help of a professional Migration Agent. If you are going to use a visa service provider who is not registered, be precautious and ask them about their qualifications and experience. Also, it might pay off to ask them why they are not registered. It does seem to give the public a measure of confidence if visa service providers are registered with the Migration Agents Regulatory Authority. top educational agent melbourne

Remember, if you are seeking a skilled migrant work visa, then you should engage a visa service provider, because the application can be a very complex process. If you are applying for an Australian student visa, you may be able to apply for this on-line and may not require a visa service provider.