Get Licenced
Migration Agents registered in Australia applying for a New Zealand licence
If you are an agent registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) in Australia you can apply for a New Zealand licence using the process set out in the Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Act.
Remember, if you are providing immigration advice about New Zealand, you need to apply for a licence. However, as a MARA-registered agent you will benefit from applying under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement (TTMRA).
- The Arrangement is implemented in New Zealand by way of overarching legislation: the Trans Tasman Mutual Recognition Act 1997 (TTMR Act). All laws are subject to the TTMR Act unless specifically excluded or exempted.
- The Act recognises the regulatory standards adopted in Australia regarding equivalent-registered occupations.
- Providing MARA-registered migration agents meet all the requirements, the TTMRA streamlines the registration process.
You must give notice in writing to the Registrar and provide the information prescribed by Section 19(2) of the TTMR Act. You will need to supply supporting documents and a fee. The Registrar will decide your application within one month of the date of receipt. The licence is for individuals and not companies.
You will not be tested on your understanding of New Zealand immigration matters before being granted a licence. However, advisers and agents licensed under the TTMR Act must comply with the code of conduct.
If you are a lawyer with an Australian practising certificate you can apply. However, lawyers who hold a current New Zealand practising certificate; and their employees who provide immigration advice within the scope of their employment agreement are not allowed to be licensed New Zealand immigration advisers.
The Registrar may postpone or refuse registration if any of the information you provide is false or misleading; if circumstances have change; if you have not provided all the required information; or the prescribed fees have not been paid. You have a right of appeal to the Trans-Tasman Occupations Tribunal established by the Ministry of Justice to hear appeals under the TTMR Act.
- For more information see the Trans-Tasman Recognition Policy chapter in the Policy Manual
- Find out about the cost of a licence