Gibsons 10 Posted October 10, 2009 Quite a simple question really and apologies if it's a silly one! Is there such a thing as a 'better than others' agent to use when applying for a Visa ( I'm going to be applying for a Independent Skilled Migration Visa) or are they all much of a muchness?:confused: Cheers in advance.... 457 in 9 May 11.. Granted 27 May 11..Permanent Residency applied 8 Mar 12 granted 30 March 2012!!! (3 weeks from submission to decision) Settled on the Central Coast (Terrigal) and living the dream!!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
The Pom Queen 5,776 Posted October 10, 2009 I would personally prefer to go with one that has been used by others with great results. There are quite a few on here that are highly thought of, for example Alan Collet at Go Matilda. Also make sure they are registered agents. If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ali 16,190 Posted October 10, 2009 I'll second what Kate says, look for recommendations. Lots of PIO members have used an agent there are a few mentioned regularly in very favourable terms. I just want PIO to be a happy place where people are nice to each other and unicorns poop rainbows Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest juliemtaylor Posted October 10, 2009 We used Peter Chiam of PTLabs as he specialises in IT assessments and visa's. Go Matilda on her, George Lombard and Cheryl Bird are all recommended on here. Julie x Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Shaz36 235 Posted October 10, 2009 Hi, I think some agents have more specialty in certain areas, so if your occupation is one that requires a little more specialised knowledge, for example, at the skills assessment stage, then I'd find out which agent has dealt with more visas in that area. I chose Go Matilda as they had great recommendations on here, and also Alan Collett is an accountant and has dealt with the assessing body a lot, so knew exactly what should be provided, and what was not so important. Its good to have peace of mind when sending of your documents for assessment knowing that you should get a positive result. I just got my visa in the last few days and can honestly say that the whole process was explained every step of the way, without bombarding me with too much info at any one time. The skills assessment went smoothly, the visa application lodged promptly after that, and good advice on when to do the IELTS and meds/pcc's. Very happy with them and would definitely recommend them. My sister is also using them, although has a different person dealing with her application as her OH is an engineer. Good luck in choosing one, Shaz Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NTH SHARMAN 194 Posted October 10, 2009 Hi the Gibsons. Just echoing the other replies. Depends where you are but we used Ian Harrop. Great company, held our hands all the way. Worth every penny. T xx Domestic Goddess For Hire your home cleaned with pride Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest guest33730 Posted October 10, 2009 Yep Same here - I used Go matilda, they have been outstanding and very professional. Most of their staff worked for the Aussie embassy doing visa processing at some point so they know how things work. If you are in the UK ask for John Sylvester and at least take advantage of the free initial consultation with him - you'll see what I mean!! Daniel Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest suni123 Posted October 10, 2009 Please make sure you go through a registered MARA agent. Verify the registration number with DIAC, I belive there is a way to check. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
freebo 441 Posted October 10, 2009 Yep Same here - I used Go matilda, they have been outstanding and very professional. Most of their staff worked for the Aussie embassy doing visa processing at some point so they know how things work. If you are in the UK ask for John Sylvester and at least take advantage of the free initial consultation with him - you'll see what I mean!! Daniel I'd also be happy to recommend Go Matilda ACS Group B 14/5/09-25/6/09|PR Appllied 27/7/09- Granted 3/11/09|Touchdown 10/5/10|Citizen 8/10/14 :cool: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest gozzo Posted October 10, 2009 We used Go Matilda they come very highly recomended on PIO, that's why we used them. They made it a very easy process, but it ain't that hard to do yourself, it all depends if you have the time to research it, and Also have the confidence to do it and not worry that you have messed it up once it's submitted. Simon. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stevie ellis 2,329 Posted October 10, 2009 | never used them but wish i did . I would use gomaltilda. i have had more advise from them for nout than the agent i have used for a few quid. Good luck :cute: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest JoanneHattersley Posted October 10, 2009 My parents used go Matilda and they were great! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Lanky Lad 760 Posted October 10, 2009 Quite a simple question really and apologies if it's a silly one!Is there such a thing as a 'better than others' agent to use when applying for a Visa ( I'm going to be applying for a Independent Skilled Migration Visa) or are they all much of a muchness?:confused: Cheers in advance.... I think its a valid question and the answer is YES. Look on this forum for agents who get good reports, like Alan Collett ( Go Matilda) and George Lombard, (Sydney) etc then contact a few for advise. Most if not all will give a basic free consultation to consider the applications merit. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest gizzmo888 Posted October 11, 2009 Hi - we are using Go Matilda - they are brilliant , very professional and lots of advice - we decided to use them after reading about other people's experiences and to date can't fault them - would thoroughly recommend them. 175 Visa applied 23/04/09, Co 18/0/09 - just sent medicals and PC's -........... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Gibsons 10 Posted October 11, 2009 Cheers for all of the replies people!! It seems that for a smooth process, the use of an agent may help. I have registered with Go Matilda & will be speaking to them as soon as possible about applying for a 175 visa, luckily I'm an electrical/electronics engineer so my skills are on the CSL for 'priority' processing, although realistically I know it will take an age to process etc......However, at 42yrs young, I had better get my finger out....... 457 in 9 May 11.. Granted 27 May 11..Permanent Residency applied 8 Mar 12 granted 30 March 2012!!! (3 weeks from submission to decision) Settled on the Central Coast (Terrigal) and living the dream!!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites