What this form is for
Form 956 notifies the Department that a registered migration agent, Australian legal practitioner or exempt person has been appointed to provide immigration assistance for a matter, or that the appointment has ended. It can also record whether that person is appointed to receive documents.
When you may need it
The appointed person generally completes the form when a new appointment begins or ends. A separate Form 956 is generally used for each matter. If a person is only being appointed to receive correspondence and will not provide immigration assistance, Form 956A may be the appropriate form instead.
Before you start
Confirm the exact matter, applicants and authority being recorded before signatures are collected.
- Client details: Names, dates of birth and Department identifiers for the client and any included applicants.
- Matter details: Application type, transaction reference number, client number or other file reference.
- Appointee details: Contact details and the applicable registration, practising-certificate or exempt-person information.
- Communication choice: Whether the appointee is also authorised to receive Department documents.
Section-by-section guidance
- Appointee and capacity: Identify whether the person acts as a registered migration agent, legal practitioner or exempt person and provide the requested professional details.
- Client and applicants: Check that every person and matter intended to be covered is clearly identified.
- Appointment and correspondence: Record whether the appointment is beginning or ending and whether the person will receive written communications.
- Declarations and signatures: Ensure the correct people sign and date the relevant declarations after reviewing the completed form.
Common mistakes
- Using Form 956 where the appointment is only for an authorised recipient.
- Assuming one form automatically covers unrelated applications or matters.
- Missing a required client or appointee signature or date.
- Using a reference number that does not match the relevant application.
- Failing to clarify who should receive future Department correspondence.
Supporting records
Have the relevant Department references, applicant details and professional registration or practising information available. Keep the signed form and evidence that it was provided to the Department.