We set out to do things better

Howard & Tran Immigration Services was born from a commitment to do things better. After 27 years with the Department of Immigration, Garry Howard saw too many lawyers and migration agents letting vulnerable clients down. Determined to change that, he founded Howard’s Immigration Services in 1999 to deliver expert advice and genuine support to people navigating Australia’s complex migration system. Since then, Garry has successfully guided thousands of migrants and employers to achieve their visa goals.

In January 2025, the practice entered a new chapter with the appointment of Hoa Tran (Esther) as Asia Relationship Manager and the evolution of our name to Howard & Tran Immigration Services. Esther brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in immigration. Fluent in Vietnamese, she specialises in supporting applicants from Asian communities – particularly those from non-English speaking backgrounds – by removing language barriers and providing clear, practical guidance through the immigration and citizenship process.

Together, Garry and Esther combine decades of expertise with cultural understanding and a genuine passion for helping people. Whether it’s resolving complex visa issues, preparing for citizenship or supporting businesses to sponsor workers, Howard & Tran Immigration Services makes the journey smoother, clearer and more successful.

Who we are

We are a dedicated team with big hearts. We’re always ready to take your call, discuss your concerns and answer your questions openly and honestly.

Our mission

To make the visa process as seamless and painless as possible during what is often a stressful time.

Our vision

To provide expert immigration advice and support with competence, transparency and integrity.

Our team

Meet the people who will guide you on your migration journey:

Garry Howard, Director (RMA 9804095)

Garry has dedicated more than 45 years to the field of Australian immigration. He began his career with the Department of Immigration in the 1970s, progressing through middle and senior management roles, including the Employer Sponsored Temporary and Permanent Visa area at the Parramatta office. This extensive experience gave Garry invaluable insights into immigration law and the department’s processes. He now brings this unmatched knowledge and expertise to Howard & Tran Immigration Services to achieve the best outcomes for his clients.

Hoa (Esther) Tran, Director

Esther brings more than 15 years of experience in the immigration sector from her work in Singapore. She now applies her expertise at Howard & Tran Immigration Services, supporting clients through immigration and citizenship process. Esther also helps the Vietnamese community through online and face-to-face courses that build English skills and knowledge needed for citizenship tests and interviews. Her experience has earned her a valuable reputation across Australia, Singapore and Vietnam, making her a trusted advisor for clients navigating the complex immigration pathway.

Eva, Senior Visas Case Manager

With more than 19 years of experience with our company, Eva manages a wide range of visa applications and processing. She brings with her a law degree from the Philippines and has entrenched herself as a knowledgeable and experienced case manager.

Vivienne, Senior Case Officer

Vivienne has more than 15 years of experience with us, specialising in the Partner and Family visas area. She has 18 years of experience working with the Department of Immigration and has a wide range of knowledge and experience in many areas of immigration processing.

Donna, Visa Case Administrator

Donna is a recent member to our team. She handles Australian citizenship applications, visitor visas applications and oversees administration and reception.

Danny, Visa Case Administrator

Danny is a recent member to our team. He is based in Vietnam, specialising in supporting our Vietnamese clients with their Australian immigration and citizenship applications. He is fluent in Vietnamese and English.