Why use a registered migration agent?

It’s easy to understand why people lodge visa applications themselves, as they think it will save time and money. The trouble is that there can be long-term ramifications if a visa application is not lodged correctly. Here at Visa Solutions Australia, we recently met a client who had tried to lodge a permanent residency visa himself. As a result of a very simple error (the application was sent to the Department of Immigration & Border Protection (DIBP) by post instead of by courier), the application was considered to be invalid, and the outcome was that he was then in Australia illegally. The poor chap had to go onto a bridging visa and came to us for advice.

In the complex world of migration, it’s easy to make mistakes. Did you know for example that if you leave Australia holding a ‘Bridging visa A’, you generally cannot return to Australia. The correct process is to obtain a ‘Bridging Visa B’ before you leave Australia, so that you can return without difficulty after your trip overseas.

Running the risk of rejection

The DIBP receives thousands of works, family, student and migrant visas each year. Many will be successful but there are plenty of others which will fail.

A registered migration agent will know how the system works and what a DIBP Case Officer wants to see. They are qualified in this area for a reason – they are specialists in this field.

Get the right visa

We’ve heard of quite a few cases where people lodge applications themselves but then realise they have selected the wrong visa. For example, be very wary of coming into Australia on a tourist visa if you plan on staying here in the long-term – too many people aren’t aware of the limitations with certain visas. Some visas allow you to stay in the country while they’re being processed, and others don’t. Do you really know which is the case with your visa?

DIBP Case Officers are sticklers for evidence. You may think that what you submit is adequate, but you should always check what you’re putting forward. For example, supporting government documents or official correspondence carries more weight in a Partner visa application than private letters.

All the information is cross checked, so make sure it’s consistent, don’t say you are separated when you are still married and always check your dates. If you’re lodging a Partner visa, feel free to update your information while it’s in the queue to prove the relationship is stable and ongoing.

Misleading evidence

By using Visa Solutions Australia’s Registered Migration Agents, you can be assured that you will be providing the correct documents. If you lodge a visa application with documents that are viewed as being bogus or misleading, your application could be refused under the “Public Interest Criteria 4020” condition. In addition to the refusal itself, you may then face a 3-year exclusion period. An example of where misleading information is commonly seen is in the results of English language tests. Remember that DIBP Case Officers check test scores and registration numbers to verify English Language certificates!

Get the right skilled visa for your occupation

When applying for a skilled visa, it’s important to nominate the right occupation. Some professions have different titles, and you may accidentally select the wrong one. If this isn’t consistent with your qualification, such an error may lead to a rejection.

Take the stress out of your application by using a migration agency

The Department of Immigration and Border Control sends a clear message on its website advising people that while it’s not a requirement to use an agent, the process will be easier and faster if you do.

What’s more with impending visa changes, the process looks likely to be more complex and problematic.

Visa Solutions Australia has a reputation of being one of the most trusted migration agencies in this country. Our clients’ needs always come first so speak to us today find out more.