There are many things in life that we can do ourselves or pay someone to do for us. In most cases, many people opt to do the job themselves because they think it’s easy and because it’s supposedly cheaper. Many learn though that DIY can sometimes cost you more money in the long run, eat into your time and sometimes cause unnecessary stress.
The same can be said when it comes to deciding whether to engage the services of a registered migration agent when applying for a visa. Many think it’s just a case of filling out some forms, lodging them and then waiting for an answer. This may be the case for very few people but in a majority of cases its more complex.
The story of the baby on the bridging visa
A couple was applying for a Temporary Skills Shortage Visa (subclass 482). They decided not to use a registered migration agent. When they lodged the application in June 2021, they failed to inform the Department of Home Affairs that they had a baby the previous January. Their failure to inform the department of their child resulted in the baby not having a legal status for almost a year after it was born. In February this year they were able to obtain a Bridging Visa E for the baby.
Bridging visas are temporary visas granted to non-citizens who have lodged a visa application and are waiting for it to be granted. Bridging Visa E is granted to some to allow them to make arrangements to depart Australia, finalise their immigration matter or await an immigration decision.
The aforementioned couple will now need to go offshore with the baby to apply and wait for a visa to be approved while they are overseas. This option is not only costly but also time consuming. Unfortunately, this family can’t afford to take the necessary leave to go overseas with the baby as it will affect their employment in Australia if they take indefinite leave to wait for their baby’s visa to be approved.
Could this situation have been avoided?
By employing the services of a registered migration agent from the beginning, a lot of this hassle could have been prevented. A registered migration agent would have ensured that the couple’s documentation was correct and that their child had been declared to the Department of Home Affairs.
The subclass 482 visa has a subsequent entrant option for family members of subclass 482 holders. Had they used a registered migration agent then they would have been made aware of this option and not be facing their current issues.
The benefits of using a registered migration agent
While using a registered migration agent does cost money, there are many benefits to using one.
They are industry regulated
A migration agent needs to be registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) in order to give migration advice. They are continually monitored for integrity of conduct and quality of immigration assistance.
To meet qualification requirements for registration they must have a sound knowledge of migration law and procedures, maintain up-to-date knowledge, complete ongoing professional training, be of good character and abide by the migration agents code of conduct.
There’s a higher chance of success
Registered migration agents work with visa applications every day so they will ensure that your application is as strong as it can be thus improving your chances of a favourable outcome.
They have the relevant knowledge and expertise
Registered migration agents have the knowledge and expertise to ensure all aspects of your visa application are completed correctly and you have all the relevant supporting documentation.
They save you time and stress
Applying for a visa can be time consuming and stressful. A migration agent will be able to complete your application in a timely manner. There may also be times throughout the application process when it’s essential to speak with the Department of Home Affairs or other relevant organisations, a registered migration agent will be able to undertake these tasks on your behalf.
They can solve complex issues
It’s possible your visa application is more complex than usual. A migration agent will be able to assist you with any issues regarding your application and help you work towards a successful visa application.
As registered migration agents, the team at Visa Solutions Australia can assist you with all your migration needs. If you would like to speak to a migration agent about your visa application, contact Visa Solutions on 1800 828 008 or send us an email.
