Australia Immigration Services

Excellent resources for Australia immigration services include the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA), and the migration agents who are registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA). Less official sources of information only include renowned guidebooks, tourism websites, and various airline websites dealing with Australia. Because DIMIA is restricted to providing forms and information, the most reliable services are offered by migration agents.

Trying to obtain a permanent residency visa can be relatively simple, in which case, you might be able to negotiate the procedures by yourself. Others have done it, but many have run into stumbling blocks or have not properly understood what was expected at some step along the way. The consequences of delays, or an unprocessed, returned application, or an outright rejection are too great not to have the best counsel possible.

Levels of Services Available

First, you need to locate migration agents who offer a range of services. Some agents offer a free, online skilled visa assessment, while some others charge for this service. This initial evaluation is critical, because you can find out immediately whether or not you have a chance of succeeding, and, if so, how much assistance and legal advice you might need.

Inquire of each migration agency if it provides written advice online based on in-depth research of the Migration Act 1958 and Migration Regulations 1994. Does it offer ongoing, online and telephone support? Do you have access to advice on skills assessment issues? Can you get advice on employment and settlement issues? If you ask these questions of several agencies, you are sure to find one that meets all your needs.