If you are planning to move into Australia, migration agents are probably the best people that can help you. They are highly trained in processing your visa and will be able to help you out of tight situations during the application period. However, before you immediately get the first agent you meet, you might also well read on.
While there are indeed a lot of immigration agents around, there are also many unscrupulous one. And then, there are people who actually pose as real agents, and luring victims with the promise of an easy visa application. These unscrupulous individuals often chalked up large amounts of cash from unsuspecting people, who are only hoping to get a fast way to enter Australia.Just recently, a man was convicted in Sydney for immigration fraud. He posed as an immigration agent and duped two people of more than $2500 worth of money. As punishment, the court ordered the man to pay back the victims the same amount that they have lost and is also required to serve a two-year custodial sentence.
The conviction was welcomed as a good sign that the Department of Immigration and Citizenship is indeed dead serious is its fight against illegal immigration agents. The department have said that they will still continue in their effort to stop these people from victimizing applicants. However, they have also urged the public to also help on putting a stop on this.
One of the things that the department has advised people getting their visa is to always look out for only registered migration agents. Immigration officials said that applicants should always look through the list of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) to see the roster of registered agents that are duly recognized by the department. The MARA list also comes with useful information that can guide you in getting in touch with these agents.
On the other hand, if a supposed agent is the one who walks to you and offers his services, be a bit wary of it. It would be a good idea if you get his credentials first and check it with the authorities in order to be sure that he is indeed a legitimate agents. Many registered agents who go by this approach actually are more than willing to give you their professional information in order to boost their credibility.
On the other hand, be careful with regards to payment of the services of an agent. If your agent immediately asks you payment with any work being done yet. Take this as a sign to get away from him. You should also get a quotation of the services rendered to get a good idea of how much the charge really is.
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