Migration Agent vs Immigration Lawyer: Which Do You Need?

What they are: Professionals registered with MARA (Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority) who specialise in Australian immigration.

Qualifications: Graduate Diploma of Australian Migration Law and Practice (or equivalent). Must pass annual knowledge tests and maintain professional development.

What they can do: - Advise on visa options - Prepare and lodge visa applications - Represent you with the Department of Home Affairs - Assist with skills assessments - Handle nominations and sponsorships

Cost: $2,000-$8,000 for most visa types.

Best for: Standard visa applications — skilled, partner, student, employer-sponsored. The vast majority of migrants use an agent, not a lawyer.

What they are: Qualified lawyers who specialise in immigration law. They hold a legal practising certificate AND are registered with MARA.

What they can do (that agents can't): - Represent you in court (AAT/Federal Court appeals) - Handle complex legal arguments - Advise on criminal character issues - Manage judicial review applications

Cost: $5,000-$20,000+ depending on complexity.

Best for: Visa refusals and appeals, complex character issues, ministerial intervention requests, judicial review.

Use a migration agent when: - Applying for a straightforward visa (skilled, partner, student) - You need help with a skills assessment - Your employer is sponsoring you - You want professional help but don't have a complex case

Use an immigration lawyer when: - Your visa has been refused and you need to appeal - You have character concerns (criminal history, visa cancellation) - Your case involves complex legal issues - You need representation at AAT or Federal Court - You're facing deportation

Start with an agent. If your case becomes complex, a good agent will refer you to a lawyer. Many firms have both agents and lawyers working together.