Safeguarding Against Migration Scams & Unregistered Migration Agents
Only migration agents registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) can legally provide immigration assistance in Australia. MARA-registered migration agents have professional standards for practicing ethically and with up-to-date migration knowledge, to ensure they are accountable to giving migrants
This is important for many reasons, as without the accountability of OMARA, in September 2025, authorities uncovered more than 470 false protection visa claims resulting in many applicants who used unregistered agents being charged high fees for applications that were almost certain to be refused.
Red flags to avoid when choosing an Australian migration agent:
1. They are not registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority
This is the biggest warning sign. Always ask for a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN) and verify it on the official MARA register of migration agents (mara.gov.au) before working with anyone or signing a contract.
Avoid anyone who:
- Refuses to provide a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN)
- Does not have their Migration Agent Registration Numbers (MARNs) easily accessible on their website and/or documentation
- Claims registration is not required
2. Claims of guaranteed visas or ‘fast-track’ promises
No registered migration agent can guarantee a visa grant or special processing timelines, visa decisions are made only by the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA).
Avoid agents who advertise things like:
- “Guaranteed Permanent Residency”
- “Fast visa processing”
- “Guaranteed invitation for skilled visas”
3. High pressure sales tactics
Scammers and other bad-faith professionals use urgency to stop you from checking their credentials or seeking other advice. This can be a good sign that they are not wanting to act in your best interest.
Be cautious if you are told to:
- “Pay now or lose your spot”
- Sign immediately to lock in a “limited-time offer”
4. Large upfront payments, hidden fees or vague pricing
Under the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) Code of Conduct, registered migration agents must be clear and transparent about fees. They are required to disclose all costs, provide itemised lists of services, and explain refund options if outcomes are not communicated within a reasonable time.
Avoid agents who:
- demand large upfront fees (especially cash or payment to personal accounts),
- provide no written quote,
- are unclear about total upfront cost,
- doesn’t clearly outline which fees are for their services, and which are fees from the government or other entities
This is especially important for high‑cost visas such as contributory parent visas or skilled migration visas which often involve separate fees at various stages of the visa process. Clear pricing and expectations help you plan and avoid unexpected costs. Consumer Guides in multiple languages provide additional support for international applicants.
5. Offers of fake documents, jobs, or ways to bend the rules
Serious red flags include any suggestions to:
- Submit false documents
- Buy fake job offers or employment letters
- Work illegally on a visa
- Disregard any visa conditions
These actions are unlawful and can result in visa refusal, long-term visa bans, and severe legal consequences.
How can I protect myself?
To protect yourself, you can use the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA) online search tool to verify a migration agent’s registration and review any disciplinary history. Agents who breach their obligations may face cautions, suspensions, or bans.
Get legal, ethical help from True Blue Migration
Or, for complete peace of mind, contact our team. True Blue Migration’s team of Registered Migration Agents are committed to providing ethical, expert advice with an understanding of the vulnerability and stress that often come with starting your immigration journey. We’ll provide you with information about your options and the process, and the option for an obligation-free contract so you have the information you need to decide if you’d like to move forward.
If you’re considering an Australian visa, complete our free assessment form, or contact us directly for a friendly, honest conversation to get you started.
Email: info@truebluemigration.com
Phone: 03 9038 9070