Australian visa scams: how to spot and report them

What are the warning signs?

Home Affairs says scam agents might:

• not understand migration law
• give incorrect advice or make false promises
• take your money without lodging your application
• give you little detail about your application or visa status
• submit false documents or statements
• fail to tell you when the department makes a decision

Home Affairs also warns of scams that encourage people to work in Australia illegally. No agent can guarantee a visa, and warns about agents who guarantee jobs or withhold documents until extra fees are paid.

What can happen if I use a scam agent?

Home Affairs says you may lose money, have your visa cancelled, be refused entry, become ineligible for future visas, be banned from returning, or be left stranded or sent home.

Whose responsibility is it?

Yours. Home Affairs says you are responsible for checking the conditions of the visa you apply for, even if someone else completes and submits the application.

How do I report a scam?

• Border Watch (Home Affairs): for migration fraud, unregistered agents and victims of fraud. Reports can be anonymous.
• Scamwatch (ACCC): for suspected scams.
• Local police or consumer protection in your country, if you were scammed from outside Australia.

Home Affairs suggests dealing only with official channels: the Home Affairs website, reputable travel agents, Australian Visa Application Centres, or the Australian High Commission or Embassy in your country.