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How to Avoid Fake Immigration Agents: A Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying a MARA Agent (2026)
Moving abroad is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions an Indian family makes. That is exactly why fake agents target people planning a move to Australia, Canada and other popular countries. They promise guaranteed visas, quick jobs and secret shortcuts, then disappear with the money.
Most people ask the same question before they sign anything: how do I know this immigration consultant or MARA agent is genuine? The good news is that you do not have to guess. Every real registered agent can be checked on an official government register in a few minutes.
This guide explains what a registered agent is, the new rules that now apply, how to verify an agent step by step, the warning signs of a scam and what to do if something has already gone wrong. If you would rather have a verified expert look at your case, you can speak with our MARA registered Australia PR visa consultants before you pay anyone.
What Is a MARA Agent and Why Does Registration Matter?
A MARA agent is a migration agent registered with Australia's Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA). The name MARA comes from the old Migration Agents Registration Authority. Today that role sits with OMARA, a part of the Department of Home Affairs.
Every registered agent receives a MARN (Migration Agent Registration Number). It is a unique seven-digit number. If someone calls themselves a MARA agent but cannot give you a MARN that appears on the official register, treat that as a red flag.
What registration actually guarantees
To get and keep registration, an agent has to meet set standards. These include:
- An approved qualification in Australian migration law and practice, plus a prescribed exam
- Character and identity checks
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Ongoing professional development to stay current with visa law
- Following the Migration Agents Code of Conduct, which covers honesty, fees, records and client care
What registration does not guarantee
Registration is the legal minimum, not a promise of a visa. Only the Department of Home Affairs decides visas. A registered agent cannot guarantee an outcome, and the Code of Conduct does not allow them to mislead you about your chances. What registration gives you is accountability: if a registered agent behaves badly, you can complain to OMARA and the agent can be sanctioned.
Why Fake Immigration Agents Are Still a Problem in 2026
Visa rules for Australia, Canada and the UK have tightened over the past two years. When rules get harder, desperate applicants look for shortcuts, and scammers step in to sell them.
Here is the uncomfortable part for applicants in India. Australian law makes it a criminal offence to give paid immigration assistance in Australia without registration. But a Home Affairs review has confirmed that this part of the Migration Act does not apply outside Australia. In plain words, an unregistered person in Delhi, Punjab or Hyderabad can advise on Australian visas, and OMARA has no power over them.
That is why choosing a registered agent matters so much from India. Registered migration agents also work in India and are bound by the same Code of Conduct as agents in Australia. An unregistered offshore advisor is bound by nothing.
Common scams Indian applicants face
- Guaranteed visa or PR offers in exchange for a large upfront payment
- Fake job offers with an "employer sponsorship" that does not exist
- Fake offer letters from colleges, especially for student visas
- Impersonation of a real registered agent using their name and MARN but a different phone number or email
- Fake government calls claiming your visa will be cancelled unless you pay a "fine"
- Tourist visa traps, where people are sent abroad on a visitor visa and told they can work
What Changed for Migration Agents in 2026
Australia rebuilt the rulebook for migration agents this year. The old Migration Agents Regulations 1998 reached their sunset date, and new instruments took over. The table below summarises the main updates that matter to clients.
| Area | Before | From 1 April 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Core regulations | Migration Agents Regulations 1998 | Replaced by the Migration Agents Regulations 2026, with four new legislative instruments commencing on the same date |
| Code of Conduct | Code of Conduct Regulations 2021 | Code still applies, with consequential changes to match the new framework |
| Becoming an agent | Earlier list of approved course providers and English rules | Updated approved education providers, English language requirements and Notice of Intention process |
| Registration fees | Set under 1998 charge rules | Fee structure kept the same for now, with any change left to a future budget |
| Enforcement | Smaller OMARA team | OMARA staffing tripled, and the government reported 61 agents sanctioned since 2021-22 (as at March 2026) |
Figures are taken from Department of Home Affairs and OMARA announcements in 2026. Always check the OMARA website for the latest position.
For you as a client, the message is simple. The system is getting stricter on bad registered agents, but it still cannot reach unregistered operators sitting outside Australia. The register is your strongest protection.
Step-by-Step: How to Verify a MARA Agent Before You Pay
Follow these steps in order. The whole check usually takes less than ten minutes, and it can save you lakhs of rupees and years of your plans.
- Ask for the agent's full name and MARN in writing. A genuine agent will share it without hesitation. Many put it on their website, visiting card and email signature.
- Open the official register yourself. Go to the OMARA Register of Migration Agents. Never use a link sent to you on WhatsApp, because scammers create look-alike pages.
- Search by MARN or name. Confirm that the status shows the agent as registered, not lapsed, suspended or cancelled.
- Match every detail. Compare the name, business name, email, phone number and address on the register with the details you were given. If they do not match, contact the agent only through the details on the register.
- Check for sanctions. OMARA publishes disciplinary decisions. A quick search tells you if the agent has been cautioned, suspended or barred.
- Confirm who will handle your file. Many offices have counsellors and sales staff. Ask which registered agent will actually prepare and lodge your application, and get that name in writing.
- Insist on a written service agreement. It should list the services, the fees and how payments are made. Registered agents must also give you the OMARA Consumer Guide.
- Check Form 956. When an agent acts for you with Home Affairs, they lodge Form 956 (appointment of a registered migration agent). The MARN on it must match the register.
- Keep proof. Take a screenshot of the register result with the date, and save every invoice, receipt and email.
If the advisor is an Australian lawyer
Since 2021, Australian legal practitioners with a current practising certificate can give immigration assistance without registering with OMARA. So a lawyer will not show up on the OMARA register. Instead, check their practising certificate with the law society or legal regulator in their Australian state or territory.
How to Verify an Immigration Consultant for Canada, India and Other Countries
MARA rules only cover Australia. If you are applying elsewhere, each country has its own regulator and register. The table below shows where to check the most common types of visa consultant.
| Country or service | Who can charge for advice | Where to verify | What to look for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | Registered migration agents and Australian lawyers | OMARA register (portal.mara.gov.au) or state law society | Seven-digit MARN with registered status |
| Canada | Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs), provincial lawyers and paralegals, Quebec notaries | CICC public register (college-ic.ca) | RCIC number starting with R, licence active, eligible to provide service |
| India, overseas jobs | Recruiting Agents licensed by the Ministry of External Affairs | eMigrate portal, "List of active RA" | Licence number shown in office and adverts |
| India, company checks | Any registered business | MCA company search and GST portal | Company name, address and directors match the paperwork |
Canada: checking an RCIC immigration consultant
In Canada, the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) licenses consultants. Its public register is the official RCIC immigration consultant list. The rule applies even when the consultant sits outside Canada, including in India. If someone charges you for Canadian immigration advice, they must be on that register or be a licensed lawyer, paralegal or Quebec notary.
When you apply, the representative is named on IRCC's Use of a Representative form (IMM 5476). Make sure the name and licence number on that form match the CICC register. If you are planning Canada Express Entry, this check should come before you share any login details or documents.
India: overseas job recruitment rules
Under the Emigration Act 1983, anyone recruiting Indians for jobs abroad must hold a licence from the Ministry of External Affairs. The MEA has warned that many illegal agents work only through Facebook, WhatsApp and text messages. Its advisory also caps recruiting agent service charges at Rs 30,000 plus GST, with a receipt.
Note that this licence covers job recruitment. India has no single government licence for study abroad or PR advice, so for those services you should rely on the destination country's register, such as OMARA or CICC.
Red Flags: How to Spot a Fake Visa Consultant
Scammers are getting smarter, but most of them still show the same signs. Walk away if you notice any of these.
- "100% visa guarantee" or "PR guaranteed." No genuine visa expert can promise this, because only the government decides.
- A claim of special contacts inside the embassy or Home Affairs. There are no back doors.
- No MARN or RCIC number, or a number that does not match the register.
- Pressure to pay today because "seats are closing" or "the quota ends tonight."
- Cash only, or payment into a personal account.
- They keep your passport or ImmiAccount login and refuse to share application updates.
- Job offers that need only a tourist visa.
- Contact only over WhatsApp, with no office, landline or verifiable address.
- Fees far lower or far higher than the market without a clear breakdown.
To make the difference clear, here is a side-by-side comparison of genuine and fake agents.
| Checkpoint | Genuine registered agent | Fake or unregistered agent |
|---|---|---|
| Registration number | Shares MARN or RCIC number and invites you to check it | Avoids the question or gives a number that does not match |
| Promises | Explains eligibility, risks and realistic timelines | Guarantees visas, jobs or PR |
| Agreement | Written service agreement and itemised invoice | Verbal deal, no paperwork |
| Government fees | Explains that visa charges go to the government | Bundles everything into one unexplained amount |
| Transparency | Gives you access to lodgement receipts and updates | Hides your application details |
| Accountability | Can be reported to OMARA or CICC | No regulator to complain to |
How to Choose the Right Immigration Consultant for Your Case
Once you know an immigration consultant is registered, the next question is whether they are right for you. Registration tells you who is allowed to help. It does not tell you who is good at your type of visa.
Questions to ask in your first meeting
- Which visa subclass or program suits my profile, and why?
- What are the main risks or weak points in my case?
- Who exactly will prepare and lodge my application?
- What are your professional fees, and what are the government fees?
- How and when will you update me?
- What happens if the law changes during my application?
Look for specific experience
Skilled migration, student visas, partner visas and employer sponsorship are very different areas. A good consultant will show real familiarity with your pathway, whether that is the General Skilled Migration visa, a skills assessment through VETASSESS, or an English test choice such as CELPIP for Australian PR.
Before any meeting, run your numbers on our Australia PR points calculator. You will ask sharper questions and spot vague answers more easily.
Common Mistakes People Make With Visa Consultancy Services
Even careful applicants slip up. These are the mistakes we see most often from people who come to us after a bad experience elsewhere.
Trusting reviews and social media alone
Five-star ratings and slick reels can be bought. A big following is not proof of registration. Always go back to the official register.
Paying the full fee upfront
Staged payments tied to clear milestones protect you. Be wary of anyone who insists on the whole amount before any work starts.
Sharing passwords and original documents
You should always be able to see your own ImmiAccount or IRCC account. Never hand over your passport for "safe keeping" without a written receipt and a clear reason.
Assuming a big office means a registered agent
Large worldwide immigration consultancy services sometimes employ counsellors who are not registered. That can be fine, as long as a registered agent signs off and represents you. Ask for that agent's name and number.
Ignoring the small print on refunds
Read the refund policy before you pay. A genuine agreement explains what happens if your application is refused or if you withdraw.
What to Do If You Have Been Scammed by a Fake Agent
If you think you have been cheated, act quickly. The sooner you report, the better the chance of stopping further losses.
- Stop all payments and do not send more documents.
- Collect evidence: chats, call logs, receipts, bank statements and any fake letters.
- Report cyber fraud in India on the national cyber crime portal (cybercrime.gov.in) or the helpline 1930, and file a complaint with your local police.
- Report a registered Australian agent by making a complaint to OMARA.
- Report fake agents or visa fraud linked to Australia through Border Watch on the Australian Border Force website.
- Report a Canadian consultant to the CICC, and report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Report illegal job recruiters to the MEA through the eMigrate portal or its helpline.
- Get a fresh, verified opinion on whether your visa application can still be saved or corrected.
Why Work With a Verified Immigration Consultant Like GIEC Global
GIEC Global helps Indian applicants with Australian PR, study visas and skilled migration from our office in South Extension, New Delhi, with offices in Australia, the UK, Canada and Sri Lanka. Our Australia advice is reviewed by a registered migration agent, and we encourage every client to check that MARN on the OMARA register before signing anything.
That is the standard we think every visa consultancy should meet, including us. If you are comparing immigration consultants in Delhi NCR, ask each one the same questions in this guide and see who answers clearly.
- Honest eligibility checks, including telling you when a pathway does not suit you
- Written agreements with a clear split between our fees and government charges
- Regular updates and full access to your own application
- Guidance across Australia, Canada, the UK, Europe and more through our PR visa consultant team in Delhi and Canada PR consultant services
Conclusion: Verify First, Pay Later
Fake agents count on one thing: that you will trust them without checking. A genuine MARA agent or licensed immigration consultant will always welcome the check, because their registration is public and their name is on the line.
In 2026, the steps are simple. Ask for the MARN or RCIC number, search the official register yourself, match the details, read the written agreement and never accept a visa guarantee. Those few minutes are the best investment you will make in your move abroad.
If you want a second opinion from a verified expert, book a free session with GIEC Global and bring your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions About MARA Agents and Immigration Consultants
How do I check if a migration agent is registered in Australia?
Open the Register of Migration Agents on the official OMARA portal and search by the agent's name or seven-digit MARN. Confirm the status shows registered, and that the name, business, email and phone match what you were given. If anything differs, contact the agent only through the details listed on the register.
What is a MARN number?
A MARN is the Migration Agent Registration Number given to every registered migration agent in Australia. It is a unique seven-digit number. A genuine agent will share it openly, and you can enter it on the OMARA register to confirm the agent's current registration status before you pay anything.
Is it legal for an unregistered agent in India to give Australian visa advice?
Australia's registration law applies to immigration assistance given inside Australia, so OMARA cannot act against unregistered advisors based in India. That does not make them safe. You have no regulator to complain to, no Code of Conduct protecting you and no insurance cover, which is why choosing a registered agent matters.
Can a MARA agent guarantee my visa or PR?
No. Only the Department of Home Affairs decides visas. A registered agent can assess your eligibility, prepare a strong application and explain the risks, but cannot promise the result. Anyone offering a guaranteed visa, guaranteed PR or a secret shortcut is a clear warning sign of a scam.
How much does an immigration consultant cost in Canada?
There is no fixed government rate. Fees depend on the program, the complexity of your case and the consultant. A licensed RCIC should give you a written agreement that separates professional fees from IRCC government fees. Compare several licensed consultants and avoid anyone who will not put the fee in writing.
Which consultancy is best for Canada immigration?
The best choice is a consultant whose RCIC licence is active on the CICC public register, who has real experience with your program, and who explains risks honestly. Check their licence number, read the service agreement and ask who will represent you on the IMM 5476 form before you pay.
Is Canada rejecting 80% of Indian visas?
That figure comes from 2025 media reports on study permits, not all Canadian visas. IRCC data reported by Reuters showed about 74 per cent of Indian study permit applications refused in August 2025, with some reports citing close to 80 per cent. Check the latest IRCC data before deciding.
Who are the top 10 Canadian immigration consultants?
There is no official top 10 list. The CICC licenses consultants but does not rank them, and paid ranking websites are not reliable. Shortlist consultants whose licence is active on the CICC register, compare their experience with your program and choose the one who gives clear, written advice.
How do I find a regulated Canadian immigration consultant near me?
Use the "Find a consultant" search on the CICC website, which works as the official RCIC immigration consultant list. You can search by name, licence number or company. Consultants in India must also be on this register if they charge for Canadian immigration advice.
Should I hire a Canada immigration lawyer or an RCIC?
Both can legally represent you for a fee. Lawyers are licensed by provincial law societies and can also act in court matters, while RCICs focus on immigration applications. For most standard applications either works well. Verify a lawyer with the relevant law society and an RCIC on the CICC register.
Do immigration lawyers in Canada offer a free consultation?
Some lawyers and consultants offer a free first call, while others charge for a detailed assessment. A free call is useful for an initial overview, but proper advice needs a review of your documents. Whatever the fee, confirm the person's licence before sharing personal details.
Which consultancy is best for Australia immigration?
Look for a consultancy where a MARA agent you can verify on the OMARA register handles your file. Check their experience with your visa type, ask for a written agreement and make sure they explain both professional and government fees. Honest advice about weak points is a good sign.
Who are the best Australian migration agents?
OMARA does not rank agents, so "best" depends on your case. Good agents are registered, experienced in your visa subclass, clear about fees and risks, and easy to reach. Check registration and any disciplinary decisions first, then compare how well each agent understands your profile.
Can I get PR in Australia in 2 years?
It is possible for some applicants, depending on occupation, points score, skills assessment and invitation rounds. Direct permanent visas such as subclass 189 or 190 can move faster if you are invited early, while regional pathways take longer. Your timeline depends on your profile and current processing times.
Do registered migration agents offer a free consultation?
Many registered agents and consultancies offer a free initial call to understand your goals. A full written assessment often costs more because it takes detailed work. Before any session, confirm the agent's MARN on the OMARA register so you know who you are speaking with.
Can an Australian lawyer help with my visa without a MARN?
Yes. Since 2021, Australian legal practitioners with a current practising certificate can give immigration assistance without registering with OMARA. They will not appear on the OMARA register, so verify them through the law society or legal regulator in their state or territory instead.
How do I check an overseas job recruiting agent in India?
Visit the eMigrate portal of the Ministry of External Affairs and open the list of active recruiting agents. Licensed agents must display their licence number. The MEA advisory caps their service charge at Rs 30,000 plus GST and requires a receipt for any payment.
What should I do if a fake visa agent took my money?
Stop paying, save all evidence and report the fraud on India's national cyber crime portal or helpline 1930, along with a police complaint. Report Australia-linked fraud through Border Watch and Canadian consultants to the CICC. Then get a verified expert to review your application status.
What is Form 956 in Australian visa applications?
Form 956 is used to appoint a registered migration agent or lawyer to act for you with the Department of Home Affairs. It shows the agent's details and MARN. Ask for a copy and check that the MARN on the form matches the OMARA register.
Can a consultancy use counsellors who are not registered agents?
Yes, many visa consultancy services employ counsellors for initial guidance. The key is that a registered migration agent or licensed consultant must give the actual immigration advice and represent you. Ask for that person's name and registration number, and check it yourself on the official register.
Mr. Suman Prem is the Founder and CEO of GIEC Global India, an international education and immigration consultancy serving students, skilled professionals, and families across India. With experience in the education and migration industry, he leads the organisation in helping individuals explore international study opportunities, student visas, skilled migration, permanent residency (PR), and other immigration pathways.
Under his leadership, GIEC Global has developed a presence across multiple international destinations, supporting clients with overseas university admissions, education counselling, visa guidance, and immigration services. The organisation focuses on providing personalised guidance, transparent communication, and professional support to help clients make informed decisions about their international education and migration goals.
