Why we published this
The international mobility industry has a trust problem, and vague answers are how most bad engagements begin. These are the questions we would want a member of our own family to ask — and they apply to us as much as to anyone else.
On money
- What is the total cost, and what specifically is excluded from it?
- Which payments go to you, and which go to a third party such as a government or a translator?
- What happens to my money if the application is refused?
- Is the fee structure available in writing before I commit?
On the process
- Who actually performs the regulated steps — you, or a licensed partner firm?
- What is your honest assessment of my chances, including the weak points?
- What is the realistic timeline, and what most often causes it to slip?
- What is required from me, and by when?
On accountability
- Are you regulated, and if so by whom? If not, say so plainly.
- Can I speak to a client with a case similar to mine?
- What is outside your control, and what do you take responsibility for?
- How do I raise a complaint, and to whom does it go?
The pattern to watch for
You are not testing for perfect answers. You are testing whether a firm will say 'that is outside our control', 'that depends on the authority', or 'I do not know, let me confirm'.
An advisor who is never uncertain about a process governed by other people's decisions is telling you something important.
