Australian Immigration Daily News

The Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) has made a significant decision on 24 March 2025, cancelling the registration of Migration Agent Nilli Singh Bhandari. This action follows a thorough investigation into multiple complaints and a serious breach of professional conduct. Key findings include:

• Failure to deliver services: Ms. Bhandari was engaged by 33 clients for a range of employer-sponsored visa applications, with fees paid between $3,100 to $30,400, yet no services were provided, and refunds were not issued.

• Misuse of MARNs: It was discovered that Ms. Bhandari used the Migration Agent Registration Numbers (MARNs) of two other registered agents without their consent.

• Deceptive practices and dishonesty: The investigation revealed that she misled clients and acted in a manner inconsistent with the professional standards outlined in the Migration Agents Code of Conduct.

• Failure to communicate: She closed her business without notifying clients or providing alternative representation.

As a result of these findings, Ms. Bhandari has been deemed unfit to provide migration assistance and her registration has been cancelled under the Migration Act 1958. She is now prohibited from reapplying for registration for a period of five years.

This decision reinforces the importance of upholding integrity and professionalism in the migration advice industry. It serves as a reminder to all registered migration agents to adhere to the Code of Conduct and ensure that we act in the best interests of our clients at all times.

Source: OMARA-Investigations---Sanction-Decision-Executive-Summary---Nilli-Singh-Bhandari.pdf