Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA)
The Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) is an Australian government body that regulates migration agents who provide immigration and visa advice to people looking to move to Australia. MARA is part of the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA), which is overseen by the Department of Home Affairs.
MARA ensures that migration agents are qualified, competent, and adhere to professional standards.
Key Points About MARA:
Regulation of Migration Agents: MARA is responsible for maintaining a register of migration agents who are qualified and authorized to provide immigration assistance. Only agents who are registered with MARA are legally allowed to provide advice on visa applications and other immigration-related matters for a fee.
Code of Conduct: All registered migration agents must adhere to a Code of Conduct set out by MARA. This code ensures that agents provide professional and ethical services, keeping the best interests of clients in mind. It covers areas like client communication, confidentiality, and financial transparency.
Required Qualifications: To be registered with MARA, migration agents must have the appropriate qualifications, which typically involve completing specific training programs or courses related to Australian immigration law. They also must pass a skills assessment and meet other professional standards.
Consumer Protection: MARA plays a key role in consumer protection. If you hire a migration agent who is registered with MARA, you have the right to lodge complaints with MARA if you believe the agent has acted improperly. MARA investigates complaints and has the authority to penalize or remove agents from the register if they breach the code of conduct.
Only registered migration agents can provide paid visa or immigration advice in Australia. If an agent is not registered with MARA, they are not legally allowed to charge for advice on visas or immigration processes, and you should be cautious when dealing with unregistered individuals.
How to Check if an Agent is Registered with MARA
You can easily check if a migration agent is registered by visiting MARA’s online search tool to find agents by name, registration number, or location. This ensures you are dealing with a qualified professional who is legally allowed to assist with your visa application.
Why Should You Use a MARA-Registered Migration Agent?
- Expertise: A registered agent will have up-to-date knowledge about immigration laws, visa processes, and any changes to regulations.
- Consumer Protection: If an agent is registered with MARA, you are protected by the agency’s oversight and complaints process.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the agent follows a professional code of conduct helps ensure you’re receiving quality advice and service.
If you’re looking to hire an agent to help with your visa application or other immigration matters, it’s a good idea to make sure they are MARA-registered.