Migration Lawyers - Visa, Citizenship & Immigration Law

Every immigration law matter is different. As leading immigration lawyers based in Sydney CBD, we guide clients through the complete visa application process – from partner visas and skilled migration to permanent residency, Australian citizenship, and visa appeals. Our MARA-registered team provides practical advice, fixed-fee services, and representation before the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), Federal Circuit Court, and Federal Court of Australia.

Same-day response, and 100% online service across NSW. No Sydney office visit required.

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5.0 ★★★★★ | 600+ Reviews

CMI Legal - Est. 2014

Law Society NSW Member

Chatswood Office

Australia-wide & International

Immigration Services We Specialise In

From temporary visas to permanent residency and citizenship, we cover every stage of your migration journey.

Skilled & Work Visas

We manage skilled migration and employer-sponsored applications, including the skilled independent visa (189), employer nomination scheme (186), regional sponsored migration scheme (187), and subclass 482 Temporary Skill Shortage visas. We coordinate skills assessments, nominations, and compliance with Australian employers.

Student Visas

We assist with student and graduate visas (subclass 500 and 485), preparing Genuine Student evidence, financial documentation, and ensuring ongoing visa compliance. We also advise on transitions from student visas to permanent residency pathways and on temporary work rights during study.

Business & Investor Visas

We structure business visa and investor applications, aligning immigration law criteria with commercial investments and complex eligibility requirements. We assist Australian employers with employer nomination scheme applications and labour agreement negotiations.

Partner & Family Visas

We prepare strong temporary partner visa (820/309) and permanent partner visa (801/100) applications, evidence de facto partner relationships, address evidentiary requirements, and manage refusals or family violence claims.

Citizenship & Bridging

We guide Australian citizenship applications and manage bridging visas to maintain lawful status during processing, refusals, or review proceedings. We assist with residence requirements, character test issues, and applications under the Australian Citizenship Act 2007.

Visa Appeals & Cancellations

We represent clients in visa refusals and cancellations, preparing administrative appeals tribunal applications, judicial reviews before the Federal Circuit Court, and ministerial intervention requests under sections 351 and 417 of the Migration Act.

Australian Immigration Law Made Simple

We support visa applicants from all walks of life – skilled workers
pursuing employer sponsorship and skills assessment, families
reuniting across borders, and long-term residents preparing for
Australian citizenship.

Our Sydney immigration lawyers translate the complexity into clear, actionable advice. We assess your situation, identify the correct visa subclass, and prepare your application to meet every requirement of the Department of Home Affairs. Whether you are applying for a temporary partner visa, pursuing permanent residency, or seeking Australian citizenship, we manage your immigration journey from first consultation to final decision.

Court Representation

ART, Federal Circuit Court, Federal Court — only lawyers can appear

Document Preparation

Front-loaded submissions to reduce processing delays

Corporate Clients

Sponsorship, compliance, labour agreements for employers

Plain English

We reduce legal terms so you can make informed decisions

We Support People at Every Stage

Partners & Families

Couples reuniting, parents joining children, families building their life in Australia

Skilled Workers

Professionals pursuing employer sponsorship, skills assessments, or independent migration

Students & Graduates

International students studying in Australia and graduates transitioning to work visas

Businesses & Employers

Organisations sponsoring foreign workers, managing compliance, and navigating labour agreements

How We Handle Your Immigration Matter

Why Choose an Immigration Lawyer Over a Migration Agent?

Migration agents can help with paperwork and some visa services, but only a qualified immigration lawyer can advise on court strategy, appear in judicial review, and manage complex immigration matters in federal courts.

As an established Sydney law firm registered with the Law Society of NSW and the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), we hold ourselves to the highest professional standards. Our principal lawyer has more than a decade of experience guiding non-citizen applicants – students, skilled workers, partners, families, and businesses – toward successful outcomes under Australia’s immigration laws.

Represent you before the ART, Federal Circuit Court, and Federal Court
Strategic planning for complex multi-step visa pathways
Front-load documents to reduce Department processing delays
Direct communication with the Department of Home Affairs
Ministerial intervention requests where appropriate

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Start with a confidential
consultation.

We’ll evaluate your situation, outline visa options, and set a clear plan.

Why Sydney Clients Choose Our Team

MARA Registered

Professional support meeting the highest industry standards under the Migration Act 1958.

Fixed-Fee Pricing

Upfront quotes — no hidden charges, no billing surprises. Know the cost before you commit.

Clear Communication

Plain English advice. We explain the law so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

11+ Years Experience

Since 2014 — successfully assisting applicants across all visa categories and complexities.

Client Testimonials and Reviews

    
 
 
         
   Ying Wan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an excellent experience with CMI Legal during our property purchase. The team was highly professional, detail-oriented, and extremely knowledgeable throughout the entire process. They carefully reviewed all contracts, clearly explained potential risks, and provided practical advice at every stage, which gave us great peace of mind. Communication was prompt and clear, and they were always patient in answering our questions. Their efficiency and attention to detail made what could have been a stressful process smooth and well-managed. We would confidently recommend CMI Legal to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy conveyancing and legal services, with special thanks to Tina for her professionalism, patience, and exceptional support throughout the process.
  
 
        
   郭小姐 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Attorney Tina was professional and patient; I am very grateful for her legal assistance during my home sale process.
  
 
        
   Solutions NovaBuild 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. John and Tina are the best! I just had another settlement through them. Everything was so smooth and they are reminding you every step for the key points.
  
 
        
   P W 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently used CMI and worked with Tina for my property settlement. Tina was extremely helpful, patient and very professional throughout the entire process. She explained everything clearly, kept me updated at every step and made the whole experience smooth and stress-free. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer. Highly recommend Tina and the CMI team!
  
 
        
   Andy Hsieh 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have Tina as my solicitor. She has been outstanding throughout the entire contract exchange and settlement process. She is always the first to respond, timely, and extremely efficient. Her attention to detail is exceptional, and she consistently makes sure everything is in the buyer’s best interest. Super attentive, helpful, and genuinely caring. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Tina to anyone looking for reliable and professional legal services.
  
 
        
   David Lin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Many thanks to Senior Lawyer Tina Tang for helping me handle the sale of my property in Sydney. She liaised with the real estate, banks and buyers broker and explained everything well and handled the sale meticulously.Her professional ability, experience and sense of responsibility are trustworthy. I recommend Tina and CMI for anyone looking for support in real estate sales.
David Lin
  
 
        
   Denis Lebrun 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. John Zhang has been absolutely great in helping me with my EOI and application for a skilled visa in Australia. On both calls I've had with John, I have had a multitude of questions for him which he answered in depth and gave me all the information I required. He really has a great amount of knowledge and I would highly recommend him and the CMI legal team for their efficiency and professionalism.
  
 
        
   Joe Shi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Tina Tang is doing excellent service job as a profesional lawer and provide valued information about property purchase issue.Thank you so much,we are appreciated to your skilled help and hope to cooperate with your esteemed company,current residential living apartment 506/2-4 Culworth Ave Killara should be put in market,we hope Tina Tang will provide support as well.thank you so much.
Joe Shi
  
 
        
   Jing LI 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was very fortunate to have Tina TANG from CMI as my conveyancing solicitor for the recent sale of my property. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication throughout the entire process — from preparing the contract, exchanging contracts, right through to settlement. What impressed me the most is that even after settlement, she continued to go above and beyond to assist me as the vendor, making sure everything was properly taken care of.

Her diligence, patience, and attention to detail gave me great peace of mind and took away a lot of the stress of selling a property. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable, professional, and truly supportive conveyancing solicitor. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
 
        
   Sabrina Ng 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outstanding service from start to finish.  Tina Tang handled my unit's sales contract with exceptional professionalism.  Communication was always clear and prompt, making the whole process smooth and stree free.  I highly recommand Tina to anyone seeking a reliable and knowledgeable solicitor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a migration agent and an immigration lawyer?

Both can lodge visa applications, but only an immigration lawyer can represent you in federal court, provide advice protected by legal professional privilege, and manage judicial review proceedings. If your matter involves a refusal, cancellation, or court appeal, a lawyer offers stronger legal protection.

Can you help if my visa has been refused?

Yes. We conduct an urgent analysis of your refusal, identify grounds for review, lodge Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) applications, and, where merits exist, pursue judicial review before the Federal Circuit and Family Court or the Federal Court of Australia.

How long does a partner visa take to process?

Onshore partner visas (subclass 820) typically take 12–24 months or longer. Our front-loading approach, submitting comprehensive evidence at lodgement, helps reduce delays caused by requests for further information from the Department.

Do skilled migration visas need skills assessments?

Yes. Most skilled visas require a positive assessment from the relevant authority for your nominated occupation, such as Engineers Australia, ACS, VETASSESS, or TRA. We coordinate the entire assessment and application process.

How long does the visa application process take?

Processing times vary significantly by visa subclass. Skilled independent visa applications typically process in 6–12 months; temporary partner visa applications in 12–24 months; and subclass 482 employer-sponsored visas in 3–6 months. Front-loading documents and addressing character requirements at lodgement reduces processing delays caused by requests for further information.

Can I work while on a student visa?

Student visa holders can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.

What is the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)?

The ART conducts merit review of visa refusal and cancellation decisions. We prepare submissions, gather evidence, and represent you at the hearing.

What is the difference between permanent residency and Australian citizenship?

Permanent residency allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, but does not grant Australian passport rights, voting rights, or unconditional re-entry. Australian citizenship, granted under the Australian Citizenship Act 2007, provides full rights, including a passport, voting, and consular assistance overseas. Most permanent residents become eligible to apply for citizenship after four years of lawful residence in Australia, including 12 months as a permanent resident.

Can a migration agent represent me in the Federal Court?

No. Only a registered immigration lawyer can appear before the Federal Circuit Court or the Federal Court of Australia. Migration agents are limited to lodging visa applications and representing clients at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. If your matter involves judicial review or constitutional questions, you need a lawyer who is admitted to the Supreme Court and registered with the Law Society of NSW.

Book Your Migration Consultation

Our qualified immigration lawyers offer paid consultations to guide you through your visa or migration journey. Get practical advice you can trust from
a Sydney-based team.

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