You do not need to know which visa to apply for before speaking with a migration adviser. A useful first consultation starts with your goals, your circumstances and the questions you need answered. A little preparation helps the adviser focus on what matters to you.
THREE THINGS TO KNOW
Write down your goals and any upcoming dates before the meeting.
Bring an accurate history and the documents relevant to your situation.
Leave knowing what needs further assessment, who will do what and the agreed next step.
01
Start with what you want to achieve
Explain why you are considering Australia and what you would like your next few years to look like. You might be planning to work, study, join family, visit or employ someone from overseas. Include the people who would be moving with you, your preferred location and any practical constraints. You do not need to arrive with a chosen visa subclass.
02
Put the key facts in date order
Prepare a short timeline of your studies, employment, travel and Australian visa history. Include your current location and any application, grant, refusal or cancellation correspondence. Highlight dates in official letters and tell the team about urgent matters when booking, so they can consider whether an earlier discussion is needed. Do not wait for a routine appointment if a deadline is approaching.
03
Bring relevant documents, not every document
Ask the team what they would like to see before your appointment. Depending on your circumstances, useful starting points may include a current visa grant notice, a résumé, qualifications, employment information, course documents or relevant family details. Keep the originals and provide clear copies using the secure method agreed with your adviser. A general website enquiry is not the place to upload identity documents or a complete case file.
04
Ask how the advice and service will work
Useful questions include: What can be assessed now? What information is missing? What alternatives should I consider? What is included in the proposed service and what would cost extra? Ask how fees, communication and responsibilities will be explained in writing. The OMARA register and consumer guidance can help you check an agent’s registration before engaging them.
05
Separate an initial discussion from a complete assessment
An introductory conversation may identify possible directions and further evidence to gather. It does not mean an application is ready to lodge or that a particular outcome is assured. Ask the adviser to distinguish what is known, what still needs checking and which decisions you should hold off making until more information is available.
06
Finish with a clear next step
Before the meeting ends, confirm what you will provide, what the adviser will assess and how you will hear back. Keep a note of the agreed actions and request clarification if anything is unclear. ANZ Migration can help you begin that conversation with a practical review of your circumstances and goals.
CONSULTATION PREPARATION
Your consultation checklist
- A short summary of your goals and questions
- Your current location, visa history and important dates
- Relevant correspondence and documents requested by the team
- Questions about service scope, fees, communication and next steps
Continue with official guidance
OMARA: choosing a registered migration agentThis guide is general information, not an assessment of eligibility. Requirements can change. Obtain advice about your circumstances before acting.