The demand for migration services is peaking, especially in hubs like Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay). However, whether you are consulting someone locally or looking for migration agents in Melbourne, you must ensure they have the legal right to represent you.If you’re wondering, “How to tell whether a visa agent I’m considering is trustworthy?”, you need to look for specific identifiers. A legitimate Australian immigration consultant will always prioritise transparency and follow the Migration Agents Code of Conduct.
1. No Verifiable MARA Registration (MARN)
The most significant red flag is an agent who cannot provide a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN). In Australia, it is a criminal offence to provide immigration assistance for a fee unless you are a MARA-registered migration agent.
• The 2026 Standard: Always verify the 7-digit MARN on the official OMARA website. Even for Bombay migration firms, the lead consultant managing your Australian file must be registered.
Why MARA Registration Matters
A MARN is not just a number; it is a seal of government-approved competence. Agents must undergo thorough legal training and pass background checks. In 2026, the OMARA has increased its oversight, meaning an active registration proves the agent is compliant with the latest 2026 legislative instruments. If an Australian immigration consultant claims they “don’t need” a MARN because they are offshore, be extremely cautious. While they can provide general information, they cannot legally represent you in a complex case without a license.
2. Guarantees of 100% Visa Success
If a consultant promises a “guaranteed” visa, walk away. The Migration Agents Code of Conduct strictly prohibits agents from guaranteeing a successful outcome. In 2026, Australian visa fraud often involves “guaranteed” spots in the Skills in Demand visa stream; this is a lie used to trap vulnerable applicants.
The Reality of Government Decisions
Only a Case Officer at the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) can grant a visa. A legitimate Australian immigration consultant will provide a “probability of success” based on your profile, but they will never promise a result. Promising a 100% success rate is a primary tactic used in Australian visa fraud to collect high upfront fees before disappearing.
3. Demanding Cash Without a Written Service Agreement
A professional Australian immigration consultant will never accept cash without documentation. Legitimate MARA-registered migration agents are legally required to provide a Written Service Agreement (a contract) that outlines fees, the scope of work, and refund policies before any money starts.
Financial Protection in 2026
Under Australian law, your money should be held in a Client Trust Account. This means the agent cannot use your funds for their business expenses until they have actually completed the work for you. Unregistered Australia PR visa consultants often ask for payments via Western Union, Cryptocurrency, or personal bank accounts. This is a massive red flag. Always insist on a tax invoice that includes a valid ABN (Australian Business Number).
4. Encouraging “Fake” Documents or Experience
If an agent suggests “creating” work experience or backdating documents to pass a skills assessment, they are setting you up for a permanent ban. In Melbourne, Australia, the Department of Home Affairs uses advanced AI verification for 2026 applications to detect document fraud instantly.
The Consequence of Fraud (Public Interest Criterion 4020)
Using an unethical Australian immigration consultant who submits false information can trigger PIC 4020. This is a 10-year ban from Australia. In 2026, the DHA has a specific “Visa Integrity Team” that cross-references offshore bank statements and tax records from countries like India to ensure work experience is genuine. If your agent asks you to lie, they are not protecting you; they are endangering your future.
5. Lack of a Professional Physical Office
Be cautious of Australia PR visa consultants who only operate via WhatsApp or generic email addresses like Gmail. A reputable Australian immigration consultant will have a physical presence and a professional digital footprint.
Verification of the Digital Footprint
Check their “Disciplinary Decisions” history on the OMARA portal. If you are looking for migration agents in Melbourne, look for a physical office address you can visit. Professional firms use domain-specific emails (e.g., info@company.com.au) rather than free services. Scammers often use the names of famous firms but change one letter in the email address.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Choose a Migration Agent in Australia
Step 1: Search the OMARA Register
Go to the official portal and enter the agent’s name. This is the only way to confirm if they are truly MARA-registered migration agents. Check for any “Disciplinary Decisions” to see if they have been cautioned in the past. If their status says “Suspended” or “Never Registered,” do not proceed.
Step 2: Ask About the 2026 Skills in Demand Visa
The Skills in Demand (SID) visa replaced the old 482 visa in late 2024. A qualified Australian immigration consultant should explain the three tiers:
- Specialist Skills Stream: (Salary over $141,210).
- Core Skills Stream: (Salary over $76,515).
- Essential Skills Stream: (Labour agreements).
If your consultant is still talking about “Medium-Term TSS streams,” their knowledge is outdated.
Step 3: Compare Fees and Expertise
While you may want the “cheapest” option, the best Australia immigration consultants charge based on complexity. For a standard Skilled Independent (189) visa, professional fees in 2026 typically range from $3,500 to $5,500 AUD (excluding GST and government charges). Ensure they have experience with the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) in case your application requires a merits review.
Comparison: Registered Agents vs. Unregistered Consultants
Not sure if your current consultant is MARA-registered?
Don’t risk a 10-year ban. Get a professional eligibility assessment from our Melbourne-based migration experts. We’ll review your profile against the latest 2026 Skills in Demand criteria.
Final Thoughts for 2026 Applicants
Whether you are starting your journey from India or you are already an international student in Melbourne, the quality of your consultant determines your future. Don’t fall for “easier migration pathways” that sound too good to be true. Stick to MARA-registered migration agents who prioritise transparency over empty promises.
Australia’s borders are open, but the “entry gate” is narrow. Using an expert Australian immigration consultant ensures that your application is lodged correctly the first time, saving you thousands of dollars and years of waiting.
FAQs
How to detect a fraudulent immigration consultancy?
Look for “fraudulent agents” who refuse to sign your application as your representative. In 2026, a legitimate agent must lodge a Form 956 stating they are acting on your behalf. If the form doesn’t include a MARN, they are not legally representing you, which is a major sign of Australian visa fraud.
Which is a good Australian migration agent?
A good agent is transparent about your points score and realistic about the Melbourne or Sydney invitation rounds. They should provide a tax invoice and use a secure Client Trust Account for your funds. They will also advise you on the PTE/IELTS scores required to be competitive.
How to tell if a visa agent is trustworthy?
Trustworthy agents will always provide a copy of the Consumer Guide as required by law. They will also be up-to-date on the 2026 Migration Program planning levels, which are currently set at 185,000 places.
How much proof of funds or bank balance is required for an Australian visa in 2026?
While there is no universal "magic number" for every visa, the Department of Home Affairs requires evidence that you can support yourself without relying on public funds. For 12-month student visas in 2026, you must typically show at least AUD 29,710 in living costs, plus your tuition fees and travel expenses. If you are applying for a tourist visa, experts generally recommend a balance of AUD 5,000 to AUD 8,000 for a short stay. These funds must be shown through consistent bank statements over 3 to 6 months; sudden, large deposits can trigger a refusal, as they may appear as "loaned" funds specifically for the application.
Is it worth the cost to hire a MARA-registered migration agent in 2026?
Hiring a professional is often considered a "security measure" because Australian immigration laws are dynamic and subject to frequent policy shifts. A MARA-registered migration agent stays current with these changes, such as the new 2026 Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) rules, ensuring your application is not lodged under outdated criteria. Beyond paperwork, they provide a customised strategy, identifying the best pathway among skilled, employer-sponsored, or regional visas, which can prevent a costly refusal. Given that government visa fees are non-refundable and can exceed AUD 4,910 for skilled PR, an agent’s expertise can ultimately save you thousands by helping you "get it right the first time".
