Migration Consultant vs Migration Agent — What’s the Difference?
If you are searching for help with your Australian visa, you have probably come across both “migration consultants” and “migration agents.” These terms are often used interchangeably, but there is an important distinction that could affect the quality and legality of the advice you receive.
What is a Migration Agent?
A migration agent is a professional who is registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA). This registration is a legal requirement in Australia for anyone providing immigration assistance for a fee. MARA-registered agents must hold a Graduate Diploma in Australian Migration Law, meet ongoing professional development requirements, and hold professional indemnity insurance.
The title “registered migration agent” is protected by law. Only MARA-registered professionals can use it.
What is a Migration Consultant?
The term “migration consultant” is not a protected title in Australia. Anyone can call themselves a migration consultant, regardless of whether they hold MARA registration. Some consultants are fully MARA-registered and use the term “consultant” as an alternative. Others may not hold any formal registration or qualifications.
This is the critical difference: the word “agent” requires registration; the word “consultant” does not.
Key Difference: MARA Registration
The most important question to ask any migration professional is: “Are you MARA-registered?” Regardless of whether they call themselves a consultant, agent, adviser, or expert, only MARA registration gives you the protections of the regulated system — including:
- Verified qualifications in migration law
- Professional indemnity insurance
- A formal Code of Conduct
- A complaints process through OMARA
- Accountability and potential deregistration for misconduct
How to Check if Your Consultant is MARA Registered
Visit the official Office of the MARA register and search for your consultant by name or registration number. If they do not appear on the register, or their status is not “Current,” they are not authorised to provide migration advice for a fee. Read our full guide on how to check MARA registration →
Why Migration Expert Uses MARA-Registered Agents
At Migration Expert, every professional who provides migration advice is a fully MARA-registered agent. We believe this is the only way to ensure our clients receive qualified, insured, and regulated advice. Our agents hold current MARA registration, have completed the required Graduate Diploma in Migration Law, and meet all ongoing professional standards.
Whether you are applying for work visas, partner visas, employer sponsorship, or permanent residency, you deserve the protection that comes with MARA registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use a migration consultant who is not MARA registered?
We do not recommend it. An unregistered consultant has no guaranteed qualifications, no professional indemnity insurance, and you have no formal complaints process if something goes wrong. Always verify MARA registration.
Are migration consultants overseas MARA registered?
Some migration consultants operating overseas may hold Australian MARA registration. However, many do not. If you are using an overseas consultant, verify their MARA registration on the official register. Using a MARA-registered agent based in Australia ensures full regulatory protection.
Is there a difference in cost between a consultant and an agent?
Costs depend on the individual professional and the complexity of your case, not on whether they call themselves a consultant or an agent. What matters is their MARA registration, experience, and the quality of their service. Visit our visa fees page for guidance.
