How to Check If Your Migration Agent Is MARA Registered

Step 1: Get the Agent's Name and MARN

Before you check the register, collect two pieces of information from your prospective agent: their full legal name (as it would appear on official registrations) and their Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN). The MARN is a unique 7-digit number assigned to each registered agent. Legitimate agents display their MARN on their website, in email signatures, on fee agreements, and in any written advice they provide. The requirement to display the MARN is a legal obligation under the Migration Act. If an agent refuses to provide their MARN, or says they do not have one because they operate 'differently', do not engage them. Every legally operating paid migration adviser has a MARN — there are no exceptions for registered agents.

Step 2: Search the OMARA Register

Go to the OMARA public register at omara.gov.au. On the homepage, there is a 'Search the register' function. You can search by: the agent's full name; the MARN they have provided; or the name of their firm or company. Do not search by MARN alone if you have not already been given a MARN by the agent — start with their name to find the MARN independently. This prevents a common scam where an operator provides a real MARN that belongs to a different registered agent. Always search by name first, then verify the MARN shown in the result matches what the agent gave you.

Step 3: Read the Registration Result Carefully

When you find a result for your agent, check three things. First, registration status: this must show 'current'. If it shows 'suspended' or 'cancelled', the agent is not currently authorised to practise. Second, the MARN: confirm the 7-digit number shown matches the MARN the agent provided to you. If they do not match, stop. Third, the firm name: confirm the firm name matches what the agent told you they work for. A mismatch in any of these three fields is a serious warning sign. Print or screenshot the register result for your records before proceeding with any engagement.

What If You Cannot Find the Agent on the Register?

If your search returns no result for the agent's name, there are several possibilities. The name may be slightly different — try variations of the spelling, or search by firm name instead. The agent may operate under a trading name different from their registered name. If you still cannot find them, do not engage them until they can explain the discrepancy. Ask the agent for their MARN in writing, then search specifically for that MARN. If a search by both name and MARN returns no result, or returns a cancelled or suspended registration, the person is not legally authorised to provide paid migration advice. Report concerns about unregistered operators to OMARA.

Red Flags to Watch For

Beyond the register check, these signs indicate a potentially problematic agent. They refuse to provide a MARN or delay when asked. They guarantee visa approval — the Code of Conduct prohibits this; no ethical agent makes guarantees. They ask for large upfront payments with no written fee agreement. Their fee is dramatically lower than the market rate for your visa type — quality work has a cost, and extreme discounting often signals cutting corners. They communicate only via WhatsApp or social media and have no professional website or verifiable business address. They claim to have 'connections' at the Department of Home Affairs that will help your case — no such advantage exists, and claiming it is a red flag. They cannot clearly explain the visa pathway, the process, or the likely processing time for your case.

Lawyers and Other Exemptions

Australian-registered lawyers can provide migration advice without being MARA-registered — their legal practitioner registration covers them. If you are using a law firm for your visa, verify the lawyer's current practising certificate through the relevant state or territory Law Society rather than through OMARA. A few other narrow exemptions exist (Department staff, MPs) but these do not apply to any commercial migration adviser. If someone claims to be exempt from MARA registration and is charging you for migration services, verify their claim carefully — exemptions are narrow and specific.

Why Migratio Only Works With Registered Agents

Every agent on the Migratio platform has been verified against the live OMARA register before being included. When you submit a case brief and receive matched agents, each agent's MARN has been confirmed as current. You can still independently verify any agent's registration at omara.gov.au — and you should. Migratio's role is to make finding a qualified, matched agent easier, not to replace your due diligence. The matching service is free for applicants — describe your situation once and receive up to 3 MARA-registered agents matched to your visa type and circumstances.

How long does it take to verify a migration agent?

Under two minutes if you have their name or MARN. Go to omara.gov.au, search the register, and confirm the status shows 'current'. That is all it takes.

Can a migration agent have more than one MARN?

No. Each registered agent has one MARN that stays with them throughout their career. If an agent claims to have multiple MARNs, that is incorrect.

What should I do if I find out my agent was not registered?

Stop engaging them immediately. Report the unregistered operator to OMARA. If you have already paid fees, you may need to pursue recovery through consumer protection channels — ACCC, your state fair trading office, or a small claims tribunal. You should also seek a registered agent to review any work the unregistered person did on your behalf.

Does a current MARA registration mean the agent is good?

Registration means they are qualified and legally authorised to practise. It does not measure their quality, experience with your visa type, or communication standards. Check reviews, ask about specific experience with your case type, and compare multiple agents before choosing.

Can I check an agent's disciplinary history?

The OMARA register shows current status (current, suspended, or cancelled). OMARA also publishes decisions from disciplinary proceedings — these are searchable on the OMARA website under 'Decisions'. A search for the agent's name in OMARA's published decisions will show any past disciplinary outcomes.

Is it safe to use an online migration agent?

Yes, as long as they are MARA-registered. Many registered agents work entirely online and provide excellent service to clients across Australia and overseas. The key check is registration status — location (online vs office) is less important than MARN verification.