Why Registration Matters
In Australia, only registered migration agents and Australian legal practitioners can provide immigration assistance for a fee. Anyone else doing so is committing a criminal offence under the Migration Act 1958.
Unregistered agents operate outside regulatory oversight — if something goes wrong, you have no recourse through the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).
How to Check MARA Registration
Step 1: Go to the MARA online register at mara.gov.au Step 2: Search by name, registration number, or business name Step 3: Confirm the agent's registration is current (not expired or cancelled) Step 4: Check their registration history — has it ever been suspended or cancelled?What a Legitimate Agent Must Provide
Registered migration agents must:
- Give you a written agreement before providing services
- Provide a costs disclosure statement
- Not take undisclosed commissions from visa service providers
- Maintain professional indemnity insurance
- Follow the Code of Conduct for Registered Migration Agents
Red Flags to Watch
- Guarantees a visa outcome (illegal — no one can guarantee a visa)
- Asks you to sign documents in a language you don't understand
- Charges significantly below-market fees
- Cannot provide their MARN (Migration Agent Registration Number)
- Operates only on social media with no Australian business address
- Asks you to transfer money to a personal account
If Something Goes Wrong
Complaints about registered agents can be made to MARA. For unregistered agents, report to the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force.
Compare verified MARA-registered migration agents → View our scam alerts →