New Professional and CPD Rules for Registered Migration Agents from April 2026

Registered migration agents are subject to updated professional-development and conduct requirements designed to maintain ethical, competent and accountable practice.

Effective date: 1 April 2026.

What changed

Four replacement legislative instruments commenced, with consequential Code changes. OMARA states both Ethical Standards and RMA Code of Conduct subjects are mandatory at one CPD point each, subject to transitional provisions.

The replacement instruments and consequential Code changes commenced on 1 April 2026. OMARA notes transitional provisions, so the registration and CPD period must be checked before deciding how they apply.

Who may be affected

Practice-wide professional compliance; indirect protection for every client matter.

Re-registration planning and CPD records need to reflect the new mandatory subject rules. Staff procedures should align with the current Code compilation, not an archived PDF.

What this does not mean

These changes are professional obligations for migration agents. They do not alter a client’s visa criteria, but they support the quality, ethics and accountability of migration services.

Important points

• Ethical Standards is a mandatory one-point CPD subject.

• RMA Code of Conduct is a separate mandatory one-point CPD subject.

• A maximum of six CPD points may be gained online in one day.

• Private study must be completed within 12 months of enrolment.

• The current Code compilation should be used for procedures, training and file audits.

Summary

Registered migration agents must follow professional and ethical rules, maintain current knowledge and complete mandatory professional development. These requirements help protect clients and the integrity of migration advice.

Official source

Official source: OMARA

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Important information

This article provides general information only and is current as at 12 August 2026. It is not legal or migration advice. Australian migration law, policy, fees and processing arrangements can change, and the correct approach depends on the facts and documents in each matter. Visa outcomes and processing times cannot be guaranteed.

For advice based on your circumstances, you may book an initial consultation with Chin & Co Migration Agency.