If you’re appointing a migration agent to act on your behalf, you’ll need to complete a Form 956 — Advice on the Use of a Migration Agent or Exempt Person. But what if you’re overseas or can’t physically sign the form? Can you use an electronic signature?
Can You Electronically Sign a Form 956?
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The short answer, based on the experience of migration professionals, is yes. Many agents report that the majority of their Form 956s are signed electronically by clients without any issues from the Department of Home Affairs.
There is no specific prohibition in the migration regulations against using electronic signatures on Form 956. Migration professionals have noted that they regularly use electronic signatures and have never encountered problems with the Department rejecting them.
Methods of Electronic Signing
There are several ways to electronically sign a Form 956:
- Digital signature platforms: Tools like DocuSign, Adobe Sign, or similar platforms that capture a legally recognised electronic signature
- Scanned signature: Some agents and clients use a scan of their actual handwritten signature applied to the PDF document
- Typed signature with declaration: Some agents accept a typed name as a signature accompanied by a written declaration of intent
Why This Matters
Being able to sign Form 956 electronically is particularly important in situations where:
- The visa applicant is overseas and cannot meet the agent in person
- There are urgent time constraints and posting a physical form would cause delays
- The client is in a remote location without easy access to printing and scanning
Best Practice Tips
While electronic signatures are widely accepted, it’s still good practice to:
- Keep a record of how the signature was obtained (e.g., email trail, platform log)
- Ensure the client understands what they’re signing and consents to the appointment
- Use a reputable platform that provides an audit trail if possible
- Retain the signed form on file as part of your records
The key takeaway is that you don’t need to delay your visa application just because you can’t physically sign a form in person. Electronic signatures are a practical and widely accepted solution.
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Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Visa rules and policies can change, and individual circumstances vary. We recommend booking a consultation with one of our registered migration agents to discuss your specific situation.
Reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services
MARA Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2318017
This article is written and reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services, a MARA-registered migration agency based in Australia. As registered agents, we are bound by the Migration Agents Code of Conduct and required to provide accurate, up-to-date advice based on Australian migration legislation. Information is reviewed against the latest Department of Home Affairs policy.
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