Artificial Intelligence is reshaping how work is done in every profession, and the migration service is no exception. Nowadays, the use of generative AI tools is becoming increasingly common in migration as well, but it comes with strict legal and ethical responsibilities.
At Growmore Immigration, as a team of Registered Migration Agents (RMAs), we understand the importance of providing accurate, professional, and lawful immigration advice.
The Australian government has recently provided clear guidance on how AI can and cannot be used in migration services to ensure that all applicants are properly protected. Here is the full information:
Who Can Legally Provide Immigration Assistance?
Under section 280 of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), only certain individuals are authorised to provide immigration assistance in Australia:
• Registered Migration Agents (RMAs)
• Australian legal practitioners
• Certain exemptions, such as close family members of a visa applicant
Section 276 of the Act defines immigration assistance to activities such as preparing, lodging, or advising on visa applications. This means it is not legal to use AI to write or help with a visa application unless it is done by someone who is an authorised person.
If anyone outside of this category gives this immigration assistance, including AI-generated advice, it is unlawful and may result in penalties.
The law is clear: AI cannot replace the expertise and legal responsibility of a qualified RMA or legal practitioner.
Key Legal and Ethical Rules for RMAs Using AI
RMAs may choose to use AI when offering immigration assistance. However, they are still responsible for the immigration advice they provide. This means that an RMA who uses AI and provides inappropriate or inaccurate information to a consumer remains responsible for that information, regardless of the source. Our practice ensures that AI is used ethically and securely, fully complying with the Code of Conduct for RMAs, including:
• Maintaining confidentiality under section 35 of the Code
• Not adding any personal details of our clients to any AI tools
• Ensuring all advice is professional, competent, and reliable
Guidance for Visa Applicants
If your migration agent plans to use AI in handling your application, they must:
• Inform you in advance
• Obtain your written consent for using your personal details
• Ensure your information is kept confidential and secure
So, make sure you take the advice from an ethical Registered migration agent in Australia, and if you have ever found any concerns about an RMA’s conduct that he/she may have breached the Code, then you can complain or report your concern with OMARA by using this link: https://portal.mara.gov.au/SearchAgent/
At Growmore Immigration, we use AI carefully to support our work, while every piece of advice is personally checked by our RMAs. Your information is always protected with us, and we make sure every step of your application is handled ethically, accurately, and with care.
For guidance on Australia PR or to discuss your suitable visa options in Australia, contact us now.
Email: info@growmore.one | WhatsApp: +61 434 202 021 | Phone: +61 3 8764 3334