Sanctioned agent detail

Decision Date:
:
2025-03-13 12:00 AM

Agent Name:
:
Hari Pokharel

MARN:
:
1571651

Decision:
:
Cancelled
 

Decision Summary

 
On 13 March 2025, the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (the Authority) decided to cancel the registration of Registered Migration Agent (RMA) Mr Hari Pokharel (MARN: 1571651) following an investigation into four complaints regarding the Agent’s conduct.

The Authority found that the RMA breached his obligations under clauses 2.1, 2.4, 2.7(c), 2.8, 2.9, 2.9A, 2.15, 2.23, 3.1, 3.2, 5.2, 5.3 and 7.2 of the former Code of Conduct for Registered Migration Agents (the former Code) as in force prior to 1 March 2022.

The Authority found that the RMA:
• Was involved in an arrangement where payment was exchanged for a sponsorship related event and in doing so failed to act in accordance with the law (being section 245AR of the Act).
• Failed to act in the legitimate interests of clients and to deal with clients competently, diligently and fairly.
• Failed to have due regard to a client’s dependence on the RMA’s knowledge and experience.
• Held out unsubstantiated or unjustified prospects of success when advising clients in relation to a merits review application.
• Failed to keep clients fully informed in writing on the progress of their application.
• Made statements in support of applications, or encouraged the making of statements, which he knew or believed to be misleading or inaccurate.
• Attempted to mislead or deceive the Authority.
• Exerted undue pressure on clients.
• Failed to take all reasonable steps to maintain the reputation and integrity of the migration advice profession.
• Failed to comply with his confidentiality obligations.
• Failed to give clients written confirmation (in an Agreement for Services and Fees) of the services to be performed.
• Carried out work in a manner that unnecessarily increased the cost to a client.
• Failed to comply with client monies handling obligations.

The Authority was also satisfied that the RMA was not a person of integrity, or otherwise was not a fit and proper person to give immigration assistance.

A decision summary can be found below.
 
 
Decision File:
:
 

Notes and Activities