Question 1

What is a migration agent?

Accepted Answer

A migration agent is a professional licensed by the Australian government to provide immigration assistance. They help with visa applications, appeals, and compliance matters. All registered agents must hold a current MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority) registration. You can browse all registered agents in our directory.

Question 2

What is the difference between a migration agent and an immigration lawyer?

Accepted Answer

Migration agents are specialists registered with MARA who focus exclusively on immigration matters. Immigration lawyers are legal practitioners who may also handle migration cases. Both can represent you before the Department of Home Affairs. The key difference is that lawyers can also represent you in court, while agents typically charge lower fees. Our guide on whether you need an agent covers this in detail.

Question 3

Do I really need a migration agent?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your situation. Simple visa applications (like a tourist visa) can often be done yourself. However, for complex cases — skilled visas with points tests, partner visas requiring extensive evidence, employer-sponsored visas, or appeals — a registered agent significantly improves your chances. Refusal rates for unassisted skilled visa applications are notably higher. Read our detailed analysis to decide.

Question 4

How do I find a good migration agent near me?

Accepted Answer

Start by searching our agent directory by your location. You can filter by suburb, visa type, and language spoken. Check their MARA registration status using our MARA verification tool, read client reviews, and compare agents side-by-side before making a decision. We recommend contacting at least 2-3 agents for initial consultations.

Question 5

Can a migration agent guarantee my visa will be approved?

Accepted Answer

No. Any agent who guarantees visa approval is acting unethically and likely breaching their professional obligations. The Department of Home Affairs makes all visa decisions independently. A good agent will honestly assess your chances, prepare the strongest possible application, and advise you of risks. Be wary of agents making unrealistic promises.

Question 6

Can I use a migration agent based in a different city or state?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Migration agents can assist clients anywhere in Australia and internationally. Many agents work remotely via video calls, email, and secure document sharing. That said, some people prefer face-to-face meetings, especially for complex cases. Browse agents in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or any location.

Question 7

How much does a migration agent charge in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary significantly depending on the visa type and complexity. Typical ranges: partner visa assistance $3,000-$7,000, skilled visa $2,500-$5,000, employer-sponsored visa $3,000-$8,000, student visa $500-$1,500, and AAT appeals $3,000-$10,000+. These are agent fees only — government visa application charges are separate. Use our cost estimator tool for a personalised estimate.

Question 8

What are the government visa application fees?

Accepted Answer

Government fees (called Visa Application Charges or VACs) vary by visa subclass. As of 2024-25: Partner visa (subclass 820/801) is $8,850, Skilled Independent (subclass 189) is $4,640, Employer Sponsored (subclass 482) is $1,730-$3,035, Student visa (subclass 500) is $710, and Parent visa (subclass 143) is $4,990 plus $50,090 second instalment. Check individual visa pages for current fees.

Question 9

Do migration agents offer payment plans?

Accepted Answer

Many agents offer payment plans or staged billing, where you pay an initial deposit and the remainder in instalments tied to application milestones. Some charge a fixed fee upfront while others bill hourly. Always get a written cost agreement before engaging an agent — this is a MARA requirement. Request quotes from multiple agents to compare pricing structures.

Question 10

Is there a free initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

Some agents offer a free 15-30 minute initial consultation, while others charge $100-$300 for a detailed assessment. Free consultations are typically shorter and more general. A paid consultation often provides a thorough assessment of your eligibility and a clear pathway forward. Request a quote to find agents offering free initial consultations.

Question 11

Can I get a refund if my visa is refused?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your agreement with the agent. Most agents do not offer refunds for refused visas because they are paid for their professional services, not for a guaranteed outcome. However, some agents offer partial refunds or reduced fees for appeal work. Government visa application charges are generally non-refundable. Always clarify refund policies before signing an engagement agreement.

Question 12

What are the most common visa types in Australia?

Accepted Answer

The most popular visa categories include: Partner visas (subclass 820/801 and 309/100), Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), Employer Sponsored visas (subclass 482 and 494), Student visas (subclass 500), Parent visas (subclass 143 and 103), and Graduate visas (subclass 485). Browse all visa types in our directory.

Question 13

Which visa should I apply for?

Accepted Answer

The right visa depends on your circumstances — your relationship status, occupation, employer sponsorship, age, English proficiency, and more. Take our visa quiz for a personalised recommendation, or use the points calculator if you are considering a skilled visa. A migration agent can provide a formal assessment of your best options.

Question 14

How long does a partner visa take to process?

Accepted Answer

Partner visa processing times vary considerably. Onshore (subclass 820/801): the temporary stage typically takes 15-28 months, and the permanent stage is assessed about 2 years after the temporary grant. Offshore (subclass 309/100): usually 18-30 months for the temporary stage. Processing times fluctuate — check our processing times tool for current estimates.

Question 15

What is the points test for skilled visas?

Accepted Answer

The points test applies to subclass 189, 190, and 491 skilled visas. You need a minimum of 65 points, calculated from age (max 30 points for ages 25-32), English proficiency (up to 20 points), work experience (up to 20 points), qualifications (up to 20 points), and other factors. In practice, competitive scores are typically 80-95+ points for most occupations. Use our points calculator to check your score.

Question 16

Can I switch from a student visa to a work visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is a common pathway. After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which allows you to work for 2-4 years depending on your qualification. From there, you can transition to an employer-sponsored visa or a skilled visa if you meet the requirements. Read our student visa guide for detailed pathways.

Question 17

What is the difference between a temporary and permanent visa?

Accepted Answer

Temporary visas allow you to stay in Australia for a set period with specific conditions (e.g. work restrictions). Permanent visas grant indefinite stay, work rights, access to Medicare, and a pathway to citizenship after 4 years. Many visa pathways involve a temporary visa first, then transitioning to permanent residency. See our visa types page for both categories.

Question 18

What happens during the first meeting with a migration agent?

Accepted Answer

During an initial consultation, the agent will review your personal circumstances, immigration history, qualifications, and goals. They will assess your eligibility for relevant visa options, outline the process and timeline, discuss fees, and identify any potential issues. Bring your passport, qualifications, employment records, and any previous visa documentation. You can request a consultation through our platform.

Question 19

How long does a typical visa application take?

Accepted Answer

Timelines vary enormously by visa type. Student visas can be processed in 1-4 weeks. Skilled visas typically take 6-12 months. Partner visas take 15-30 months. Parent visas (non-contributory) can take 15-30 years. Employer-sponsored visas usually take 2-6 months. These are processing times only — preparation can add weeks or months. Check our processing times tool for current data.

Question 20

What documents do I need for a visa application?

Accepted Answer

Common documents include: passport, birth certificate, police clearances, health examination results, English test scores (IELTS/PTE), qualification assessments, employment references, and financial evidence. Partner visas require extensive relationship evidence. Skilled visas need skills assessments. Use our visa checklist tool for a detailed list tailored to your visa type.

Question 21

What happens if my visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your visa is refused, you typically have 21-28 days to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). Your agent can help prepare the appeal, which involves a fresh review of your case. Some refusals can also be addressed through ministerial intervention or a new application. Acting quickly is essential — deadlines are strict. A migration agent experienced in appeals is highly recommended.

Question 22

Can I work while my visa application is being processed?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your current visa status. If you hold a substantive visa with work rights, those rights generally continue. If you applied onshore and hold a bridging visa, it may or may not include work rights depending on the visa type. Bridging Visa A typically mirrors your previous visa conditions, while Bridging Visa E may have restrictions. Your agent can confirm your specific work entitlements.

Question 23

How do I track my visa application status?

Accepted Answer

You can check your application status through your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. Your migration agent can also check on your behalf if they have been appointed as your authorised representative. If you have not heard anything for an extended period, your agent can submit a status enquiry to the department.

Question 24

What is MARA?

Accepted Answer

MARA is the Migration Agents Registration Authority, a statutory body that regulates migration agents in Australia. It maintains a public register of all licensed agents, sets professional standards, handles complaints, and can sanction or deregister agents who breach the code of conduct. Always verify an agent's registration using our MARA check tool.

Question 25

How do I verify if a migration agent is registered?

Accepted Answer

Use our MARA verification tool to instantly check any agent's registration status. You can search by name or MARN (Migration Agent Registration Number). Every agent in our directory has been verified against the official MARA register. You can also check directly on the MARA website.

Question 26

What should I do if I have a complaint about a migration agent?

Accepted Answer

First, try to resolve the issue directly with the agent or their firm. If that fails, you can lodge a formal complaint with the Office of the MARA (OMARA). Complaints can cover overcharging, incompetence, dishonesty, or breaches of the Code of Conduct. OMARA can investigate, issue sanctions, impose conditions, or cancel an agent's registration. Complaints are free and can be lodged online at the MARA website.

Question 27

What qualifications do migration agents need?

Accepted Answer

To become a registered migration agent, a person must complete a Graduate Diploma of Australian Migration Law and Practice (or equivalent), pass a registration exam, maintain professional indemnity insurance, and meet character requirements. Agents must also complete continuing professional development (CPD) each year to maintain their registration. This ensures a minimum standard of competence.

Question 28

Is it illegal to use an unregistered migration agent?

Accepted Answer

It is illegal for an unregistered person to provide immigration assistance for a fee in Australia. Penalties can apply to the unregistered provider, not to you as the client. However, using an unregistered agent is extremely risky — you have no regulatory protections, no complaints mechanism, and no guarantee of competence. Always verify registration with our MARA check tool.

Question 29

What should I do when I first arrive in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Key first steps include: activate your visa (if required by first-entry date), apply for a Tax File Number (TFN), open an Australian bank account, register for Medicare (if eligible on your visa), arrange health insurance (mandatory for many visa types), and register with your local council. Our settlement guides cover each step in detail.

Question 30

Can my migration agent help after my visa is granted?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many agents provide ongoing support including: monitoring visa conditions, preparing for permanent residency transitions, citizenship applications, family visa sponsorship, and employer compliance matters. Some agents offer packages that cover the entire journey from temporary visa through to citizenship. Check agent profiles in our directory for their full range of services.

Question 31

How do I apply for Australian citizenship?

Accepted Answer

To be eligible for citizenship by conferral, you generally must: have been a permanent resident for at least 12 months, have lived in Australia for at least 4 years (including 12 months as a permanent resident), be of good character, and pass the citizenship test. The current application fee is $490. Processing typically takes 10-18 months. A migration agent can help ensure you meet all requirements.

Question 32

What are my obligations as a visa holder?

Accepted Answer

Visa conditions vary by subclass but commonly include: maintaining valid health insurance, notifying the department of address changes, not working more than permitted hours (for student visas: 48 hours per fortnight during term), leaving Australia before your visa expires, and not engaging in criminal activity. Breaching conditions can result in visa cancellation. Check your specific conditions in your visa grant letter.

Question 33

Can I sponsor my family members once I am in Australia?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your visa type. Permanent residents and citizens can sponsor partners for a partner visa and parents for a parent visa. Some temporary visa holders can include family members in their application. Employer-sponsored visa holders can often add dependants. Each sponsorship has specific income and relationship requirements. Consult a migration agent for your specific situation.

Question 34

What happens if my visa expires while I am in Australia?

Accepted Answer

If your visa expires and you have not applied for a new visa, you become an unlawful non-citizen. This can result in detention and removal from Australia, and a re-entry ban of up to 3 years. If you realise your visa is about to expire, apply for a new visa immediately (which grants a bridging visa in most cases) or contact a migration agent urgently. Prevention is always better — set calendar reminders well before expiry.

Migration Agent FAQ

About Migration Agents