Applying for a visa in Australia can be a complex process for many people to navigate. However, the rules exist to protect Australian society from fraud and prevent unauthorised people gaining entry to our country. In order to make the visa application easier to understand many people use the services of a migration service. Most of these companies are law abiding, and they provide a valuable service, but there are fraudulent firms operating in Australia that should be avoided.

The DIAC Warning:

The DIAC has issued a warning recently regarding the conduct of migration specialist and future visa applicants. Fraud is treated very seriously in Australia and applicants found guilty of fraud are subject to penalties. These penalties can be a prevention from lodging an application for a period of three years or even a complete exclusion from entering Australia.

There is also a code of conduct for migration agents that must be adhered to. At its worst, fraud can include providing fraudulent documents or other misleading information. However, an agent can face severe penalties even if there is no clear intention to commit fraud. The penalties for an agent could result in them being formally de-registered and losing their ability to conduct a migration business.

What Constitutes Visa Fraud?

People that are intending to migrate to Australia must protect themselves from the potential for fraud. Unscrupulous criminals can disguise themselves as DIAC officials, but there are signs to look out for that a potential fraud may be taking place.

An offer of a guaranteed visa that arrives unexpectedly is a sure sign of fraud. A specialist migration company or DIAC will never offer a guaranteed visa. A migrant has to lodge the application and only then will a decision be made depending upon the applicant's ability to comply with the necessary requirements.

When paying for a visa application fee, the money should be paid directly to the designated account. A legal migration specialist will never ask for a pre-processing payment. Any subsequent fees will be paid directly to an agency that is authorised by the Australian government or to the migration specialist dealing with the application.

There is no need to provide original documents; a legal visa processor only needs certified photocopies. Original documents are only necessary if they are specifically requested by DIAC.

A migration specialist will have all the relevant details available and have no need to conceal or provide fake information. Always ensure that your chosen agent has a Migration Agents Registration Number (MARN), an office address, a statement of service, a website and that they offer you a contract.