Can I apply for a visa overseas?

This will depend on the subclass you are applying for, but as a general rule, you can apply for a visa from outside Australia. If you are unsure of your application requirements, please consult our office directly.

Is it better for me to use an Australian lawyer/migration agent or a migration agent from my home country?

We highly recommend engaging an Australian lawyer or migration agent as opposed to a migration agent from your home country. The reality is that you want your migration lawyer or agent to be on the ground and close to the factors that will influence your matter. The insight of a locally-based professional will be invaluable to you as you embark on your migration journey. You will be glad to know that here at Hartleys Lawyers, we are both migration agents and lawyers.

Migration lawyer and agent - whats the difference?

Migration law is a complex area that has intersections with federal and foreign policy, ever-changing regulations and constantly evolving subclasses. The key difference between an Immigration Lawyer and a Migration Agent is that an Immigration Lawyer must meet more rigorous professional standards and a higher level of continuing practical development and supervision. A Lawyer’s registration with the Victorian Legal Services Board and with MARA must be renewed every year requiring continuing professional courses for both regulatory bodies. On the other hand, a Migration Agent must renew their registration with MARA each year and complete 10 hours of continuing professional development.

Another difference is that your communications with a lawyer are protected by legal professional privilege which means that these communications are protected from disclosure subject to few limited exceptions. The legal professional privilege does not extend to communications with Migration Agents. However, both Migration Agents and Immigration Lawyers have an obligation to their clients to not disclose confidential information without the client’s written consent, unless required by law.

Furthermore, our immigration lawyers are admitted to the High Court of Australia, meaning they can appear for you in any Commonwealth Court.

Do you offer any other legal services?

We are able to assist you with any other legal matters you may have in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Law, Conveyancing, Estates or if you simply wish to update your Last Will and Testament.