Although you do not have to use a registered
migration agent to lodge your visa application, they might be able to help you
if your case is complex or you require immigration assistance.
Registered migration agents are required to:
• have a sound knowledge of migration law and procedure
• act professionally and in a timely manner
• abide by the Code of Conduct for registered migration agents
• have appropriate insurance
• be a fit and proper person to give immigration assistance and be a person of
integrity (this will involve criminal history checks).
If you have a problem with a registered agent, you can make a complaint to the
Authority – FIPSA .
Why shouldn’t I use an unregistered migration agent?
In South Africa, unregistered people working
as migration agents are not breaking the law but are unregulated and you have
no recourse for poor advice which will have devasting consequences on your
application and your future in South Africa .
This is because people who are not registered might:
• not know about current South African legislation and procedures
• give you incorrect advice
• make false claims about your chances of success.
Advantages of a registered Immigration Practitioner:
• knows the current South African Immigration legislation and procedures
• writes a licensing exam and is registered with FIPSA / Law Society
• will always give you correct advice
• will be honest about your chances of success
• will go for regular training with Department of Home Affairs, Department of
Labour, VFS and Department of Trade and Industry.
Applying in South Africa: if you want to report an unregistered person, you can
contact us (free of charge).
Applying outside South Africa: if you are outside South Africa and suspect that an unregistered person has broken the law, you can report them to your local law enforcement authority and tell your nearest immigration office or SA Embassy .
If you think that a migration agent is acting unprofessionally, you should also tell your nearest immigration office ( Department of Home Affairs ) .
SA Migration International is registered with FIPSA ( Forum of Immigration Practitioners ) and the Department of Home Affairs