Migration Agents Approved to Witness Statutory Declarations

From September 18, 2018, registered migration agents in Australia have been authorised to witness statutory declarations. This legislation enhances the ability of migration agents to assist clients in meeting their visa application requirements. Check here for more info.

What is a Statutory Declaration?

A statutory declaration is a written statement that the individual declares to be true, signed in the presence of an authorised witness. These declarations are frequently used in legal and visa-related matters to:

• Verify personal details like names and addresses.
• Provide evidence supporting Australian visa applications.
• Explain circumstances such as lost passports.

Key Points to Remember:

• Making a false statement in a statutory declaration is a criminal offence punishable by up to four years in prison.
• Statutory declarations are different from affidavits. While both are statements of fact, affidavits are confirmed by oath or affirmation for court use, whereas statutory declarations are not.

Who Can Witness a Statutory Declaration Outside Australia?

For individuals located outside Australia, a statutory declaration can be witnessed by:

• Australian notaries public.
• Certain officials at Australian embassies, high commissions, or consulates.

Witnesses must have an official administrative connection to Australia. This includes:

• Australian-registered professionals.
• Members of Australian professional bodies, such as Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.

How to Have Copies of Original Documents Certified

Migration agents are approved by the Department of Home Affairs to certify copies of original documents for visa, nomination, and sponsorship applications. This can simplify the process, as migration agents are already well-versed in visa requirements and documentation. For more information from the Australian Government check here .

Steps to Certify Documents with a Migration Agent:

1. Locate a Registered Migration Agent: Ensure your migration agent is registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA).
2. Prepare Your Original Documents: Bring the original documents and their copies to the migration agent.
3. Certification Process: The migration agent will review the documents, compare them to the originals, and certify the copies as true representations.
4. Use in Visa Applications: Submit the certified documents as part of your visa application.

FAQs About Migration Services in Australia

What does a migration agent do?

A migration agent provides professional assistance with visa applications, including advising on eligibility, preparing documents, and representing clients in dealings with the Department of Home Affairs.

Can migration agents certify documents?

Yes, registered migration agents are authorised to certify documents and witness statutory declarations for visa-related purposes.

Do I need to use a migration agent for my visa application?

While not mandatory, using a migration agent can significantly improve your chances of a successful application by ensuring compliance with Australian visa regulations.

How do I verify if a migration agent is registered?

You can check a migration agent’s registration status on the MARA website.

Migration agents play a critical role in assisting visa applicants by certifying documents, witnessing statutory declarations, and providing expert advice. With the right migration agent, like those at ImmAid ANZ, you can navigate the visa application process with confidence and ease.

For reliable and professional migration assistance, contact ImmAid ANZ today at 1300 44 66 22 and take the first step toward achieving your Australian dream.

With our in-depth knowledge and experience, we make the process efficient and stress-free, helping employers meet their workforce needs while offering workers opportunities to build a future in Australia. Let us support you in every step of your Employer Sponsored Visa journey.