Migration (Specified Courses and Exams for Registration as a Migration Agent) Instrument 2026

Current rules

This instrument, known as the Migration (Specified Courses and Exams for Registration as a Migration Agent) Instrument 2026, details the specific courses and examinations required for registration as a Migration Agent. It sets out prescribed minimum scores to be achieved in examinations and the periods for their completion. Additionally, the instrument includes application and transitional provisions, such as requirements for submitting evidence of prescribed courses completed before its commencement and for specific TOEFL iBT scores.

Overview

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has published a new legislative instrument, effective 16 March 2026, detailing the specific courses and examinations required for individuals seeking registration as migration agents. This update replaces the previous 2018 instrument, outlining new requirements and transitional arrangements for applicants.

What changed in the latest version

This new rule is important for people who want to become a Migration Agent in Australia. It sets the exact study and exam requirements for getting registered as a professional. The old rule from 2018 is no longer active. This means new applicants must now follow the rules in this 2026 document. The rule includes special arrangements for courses people started before the new rule. It also includes special rules for Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test (TOEFL iBT) scores. This helps people who were already working to meet the requirements. It helps keep things steady, even with the rule change.

Explained simply

Imagine you want to help people move to Australia, but first, you need to prove you're good at it. This new rule lists exactly which classes you have to take and which tests you need to pass to become a 'migration agent' – someone who helps with visas and immigration. It's like a new set of instructions for getting your license to do this job, and it replaces the old instructions from 2018.

Frequently asked

Version history

1. v1Effective 16 Mar 2026EffectiveHigh impact
   Migration (Specified Courses and Exams for Registration as a Migration Agent) Instrument 2026

   Australia's Department of Home Affairs made a new rule. It is called the Migration (Specified Courses and Exams for Registration as a Migration Agent) Instrument 2026. This rule started on 16 March 2026. This new rule replaces an older one from 2018. The old rule was called the Migration (IMMI 18/003) Instrument 2018. The new rule sets out the courses and exams people must take. It also says what scores they need. This is for people who want to become a Migration Agent. This rule also states how long people have to complete exams. It includes special rules for courses taken before 16 March 2026. It also has special rules for scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test (TOEFL iBT).

Timeline

1. Announced

   16 Mar 2026

   The Australian Department of Home Affairs has published a new legislative instrument, effective 16 March 2026, detailing the specific courses and examinations required for individuals seeking registration as migration agents. This update replaces the previous 2018 instrument, outlining new requirements and transitional arrangements for applicants.

2. Takes effect

   16 Mar 2026

   This instrument specifies the prescribed courses, examinations, minimum scores, and periods for completing examinations required for registration as a Migration Agent. It also includes application and transitional provisions, including for evidence of prescribed courses undertaken before its commencement and for TOEFL iBT scores.