Entering Australia is a challenging process that may require more effort and expertise than you are able to manage on your own. With the different types of Australian visas available, it may be time-consuming for you to determine one that specifically applies to your situation. Add to that the set of requirements you need to furnish to the migration office. With all of these challenges, it is a good thing that world overseas immigration is here to help.
Propelled by tourism and employment, many foreigners are willing to go to great lengths to enter Australia. But without the help of a professional agent, you run the risk of falling into traps which may result in migration fraud. Some unscrupulous individuals might take advantage of your being uninformed and even scam you out of your money.
Fraud is a criminal offence in Australia that imposes severe penalties to people proven to be involved in such crime. This means that even if you are the victim, you will also have to face the consequences. For instance, if some unregistered person has lodged the application for you with or without your knowledge of his or her being uncertified, you are equally responsible for the act.
Migration fraud can be prevented if you know the following signs to look out for:
- You are demanded to produce cash payment without the agent issuing you a receipt.
- You are charged exorbitant fees. Before any deal with an agent, make sure to check out the regular rates and fees that registered migration agents charge through the Office of the MARA website.
- You are not presented any contract of service and fees by the agent.
- You and the bogus agent deal at a café, pub, or restaurant. Also, you are provided only with a mobile phone number or a post office box and no office address.
- You are not provided with a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN).
What you need to know:
- You do not need to hire an immigration representative to apply for a visa or for Australian citizenship.
- Immigration representatives do not have special connections with Australian government officials and cannot guarantee you a visa.
- Only authorized officers at Australian embassies, high commissions and consulates can decide whether or not to issue a visa.
- Don’t be tempted into using false documents as this will result in the refusal of your application.
- Beware of internet scams and false websites.
- Processing fees are the same at all Australian visa offices around the world. Fees in local currency are based on official exchange rates and correspond with the amount in Australian dollars.
- Austalian visa offices will never ask you to deposit money into an individual’s personal bank accounts or to transfer money through a specific private money transfer company.
- If you have questions, contact us or the visa office responsible for your area.
Common Types of migration Fraud
- Businesses Promising Premium Services
- Non-Governmental Web Sites
- Visa Lottery Claims
- Services Offered by “Notarios Publicos”
Tips for Avoiding migration Fraud
Applying for a visa or adjusting one’s immigration status can be quite daunting, especially for individuals who are unfamiliar with the law, language or culture. Here are some tips to help you avoid some of the more common immigration scams:
- Read all form instructions carefully and fill in all required fields.
- Remember to review your form, make sure you fully understand it, and sign it before sending your form
- Do not sign blank forms.
- Filing fees are accepted via money order, certified check or credit card.
- Keep copies of all documentation, including forms filed
- Obtain a receipt for any payment made to an immigration attorney or accredited representative.
- If you are working with an immigration lawyer, check the bar association of your state to make sure the attorney is eligible to practice law there.
- If you are working with a non-attorney, make sure that individual is an accredited representative, as recognized by the Dept. of Justice’s Board of Immigration Appeals.
- Consider seeking a second opinion if you have any doubts about a professional who may be handling your case.
How to Report migration Fraud
If you believe you have been the victim of migration fraud, you may report the alleged scam to the Federal Trade Commission or file a complaint with your state. Simply reporting an incident of migration fraud will not affect your immigration case, so make sure you take whatever additional steps are necessary to properly handle your application or petition.
You can come in the office directly for any immigration query. But it will be beneficial for you complete your free assessment visa form before the meeting. So that the consultant has all the knowledge about your profile and he can guide you properly.To know any further you can mail us at-Info@worldoverseasimmigration.com