When To Use A Migration Agent?

[actiondell4]

Has anyone ever used the services of a migration agent either in Thailand or Australia?

I know they are expensive but when you talk to them they talk as if your Thai friends visa application will be successful if you use them and how they know people etc.

One qouted me 35000 baht in Bangkok and in Australia $80 per hour .

What are they like service wise in Thailand?

I know they take the hassle out of everything,forms filled in etc.

But who would you reccomend them for?

Also how do you become a migration agent in Thailand,do you need a Lawyers degree?

Edited April 9, 2008 by actiondell4

[rgs2001uk]

wouldnt touch them with a barge pole.

i know a british guy that got ripped off in australia for about 1,500 ozzy dollars using one.

i honestly believe if your application is honest and you have nothing to hide, then apply through the appropriate embassay, the staff are there to assist, and can usually tell genuine cases.

off course theses agencies will tell you they can assist you, thats what they are in business for, i cant imagine them telling you, no mate dont waste your money with us, all we do is rip you off, cheaper to do it yourself, off course they know people etc etc.

dont waste your time.

[Mossfinn]

Has anyone ever used the services of a migration agent either in Thailand or Australia?

No, but I have in the UK on both UK and Irish situations.

I know they are expensive

Depends on what you consider to be expensive.

but when you talk to them they talk as if your Thai friends visa application will be successful if you use them and how they know people etc.

Just a hook, I am afraid, certainly in consideration to the UK Embassy.

What are they like service wise in Thailand?

I know they take the hassle out of everything,forms filled in etc.

But who would you reccomend them for?

Pretty poor from what I can gather and I think it is a little stretched that they take the hassle out of everything, particularly when they cock it up, as for recommendations I wouldn't not in Thailand anyway, use a recognised Agent that has the relevant countries governing bodies stamp of approval.

Also how do you become a migration agent in Thailand,do you need a Lawyers degree?

You go to the local copy artist and put a copy brass plate on the wall, along with your copy certificate of a Masters Degree.

Moss

PS

And just to be a pedant, are you sure you mean a 'Migration Agent'.

[david96]

Here is the website of the the Migration Agents Registration Authority in Australia.

http://www.themara.com.au/Online/default.asp

There are times when you should use a migration agent,

1 If English is not your first language.

2 If your application may have difficulty meeting the criteria for the visa class.

3 If you have to submit a review by the MRT.

4 If you have to deal directly with the administration staff of DIAC in Australia or overseas and the matter is complex.

5 If you are refused a visa or a visa is cancelled (in some cases).

6 If you are applying for a work related visa.

Above are only some examples.

Migration agents are licenced in Australia.

In Thailand those that claim to be migration agents are no more than a translation service.

Migration agents do not obtain visas for an applicant they prepare the documentation and submit the application.

Most visas for Australia, tourist,financee and spouse can be prepared by the applicant or sponsor without much difficulty.

Australian migration agents are up to date with the current legislation and current requirements and protocol regarding Immigration. (to Australia)

If you think you are going to have problems you may well be advised to contact one, the first appointment is usually free in Australia.

[kiakaha]

Has anyone ever used the services of a migration agent either in Thailand or Australia?

I know they are expensive but when you talk to them they talk as if your Thai friends visa application will be successful if you use them and how they know people etc.

One qouted me 35000 baht in Bangkok and in Australia $80 per hour .

What are they like service wise in Thailand?

I know they take the hassle out of everything,forms filled in etc.

But who would you reccomend them for?

Also how do you become a migration agent in Thailand,do you need a Lawyers degree?

If you cant read and write they could be useful to help the applicant understand the immigration rules and fill in the form