Australia is a top destination for skilled migrants, international students, and professionals. As these individuals settle down, many wish to reunite with their families, especially their parents. To facilitate this, the Australian government offers several Parent visa options. However, choosing the right visa and understanding the complex requirements can be daunting. This comprehensive guide explores the different types of Parent visas available in Australia, their eligibility requirements, application process, processing times, and tips for a successful outcome.

Overview of Parent Visa Categories

Australia offers a range of Parent visa options under two main streams:

1. Permanent Parent Visas

2. Temporary Parent Visas

Each visa type has different eligibility requirements, processing times, and costs. The right visa for an applicant depends on factors like the number of children in Australia, age, financial status, and how quickly one wishes to join their children.

Permanent Parent Visa Options

There are four primary types of permanent Parent visas:

• Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

• Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)

• Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)

• Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864)

Let’s examine each one in detail.

Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

The Subclass 103 visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live permanently in Australia. However, it has a very long processing time, often exceeding 30 years, due to limited annual places.

Key Requirements:

• Sponsored by an eligible child in Australia

• Meet the Balance of Family test

• Meet health and character requirements

• No age restriction

Pros:

• Low application fee

• Leads to permanent residency

Cons:

• Extremely long wait times

• Must remain outside Australia while waiting (unless holding a bridging visa from another valid application)

This visa is ideal only for those who are in no hurry to migrate or are already in Australia on another long-term visa.

Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)

The Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) also grants permanent residency but has faster processing times—usually between 4 to 6 years.

Key Requirements:

• Sponsored by a child who is a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Meet the Balance of Family test

• Pay a significantly higher visa application fee

• Health and character criteria must be satisfied

Pros:

• Faster processing than Subclass 103

• Leads directly to permanent residency

Cons:

• High visa cost (can exceed AUD 45,000 per parent)

• Must stay outside Australia unless holding an appropriate bridging visa

This visa is popular among parents who can afford the higher cost and wish to migrate sooner.

Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)

The Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is for parents who are old enough to qualify for the Australian age pension, making it available only to certain age groups.

Key Requirements:

• The applicant must be onshore (inside Australia)

• Meet age requirements (pension age)

• Be sponsored by an eligible child

• Pass the Balance of Family test

• Must not have a visa refusal or other conditions that prevent them from applying

Pros:

• Onshore application—can stay in Australia on a Bridging Visa during processing

• Lower cost than contributory visa

Cons:

• Extremely long processing time (could take over 30 years)

• No work rights during bridging period unless separately applied for

Ideal for aged parents already in Australia who are willing to wait.

Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864)

This visa is the onshore equivalent of the Subclass 143 and allows eligible aged parents to apply while in Australia.

Key Requirements:

• Must be of pension age

• Must be in Australia at the time of application and visa decision

• Meet Balance of Family test

• Must have a sponsor

• Must pass health and character requirements

• High visa fee (similar to Subclass 143)

Pros:

• Onshore processing with bridging visa

• Quicker than non-contributory options

• Leads directly to permanent residency

Cons:

• High cost

• Still a few years’ processing time (but shorter than non-contributory)

It is suitable for aged parents currently in Australia and who can afford the fee.

Temporary Parent Visa Options

For parents who wish to temporarily join their children in Australia, there’s one major temporary visa:

• Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)

This visa does not lead to permanent residency, but it offers long-stay visitation privileges.

Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)

The Subclass 870 visa allows parents to stay in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years per visa and renew for a maximum of 10 years. No Balance of Family test is required.

Key Requirements:

• Must be sponsored by an approved Australian citizen or permanent resident child

• Sponsor must meet income requirements

• Must have adequate health insurance

• Cannot work while in Australia

• Must apply from outside Australia

Pros:

• Allows long-term stay

• No Balance of Family test

• Fast processing (compared to permanent visas)

Cons:

• High annual fee and additional renewal costs

• No pathway to permanent residency

• Cannot work

Ideal for families looking to reunite for extended visits without the long wait of permanent visa options.

What Is the Balance of Family Test?

The Balance of Family test is a crucial eligibility requirement for most permanent Parent visas. It assesses how many of the parent’s children live permanently in Australia.

To meet the test:

• At least half of the children must be eligible Australian citizens or residents, OR

• More children live in Australia than in any other country

Children from all relationships and residing in any country must be counted.

Failure to pass this test disqualifies parents from most permanent options, except for the temporary Subclass 870.

Sponsorship Requirements for Parent Visas

To sponsor a parent for a visa, the sponsoring child must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Be a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Have lived in Australia for a certain period (usually 2 years or more)

• Agree to support the parent(s) financially and socially

• Provide an Assurance of Support if required (usually for contributory visas)

Sponsors may also be required to undergo background checks and meet income thresholds, especially for temporary visas like the Subclass 870.

Assurance of Support (AoS)

An AoS is a legal commitment from a sponsor (or another person) to financially support the visa holder for up to 10 years, ensuring they do not rely on public funds.

An AoS usually involves:

• A bond payment (refundable)

• Proof of stable income

• Agreement to repay any social security payments the visa holder may claim

This is common in Subclass 143 and Subclass 864 visa applications.

Application Process Overview

1. Determine Visa Type
   Choose the right visa based on age, location (onshore/offshore), urgency, and finances.

2. Prepare Documents

   • Passport

   • Birth certificates

   • Proof of relationship

   • Financial documents

   • Health and police clearances

3. Lodge Visa Application
   Submit online via the ImmiAccount portal or via paper form if applicable.

4. Pay Application Fee
   Payment is in stages for contributory visas—initial and second installment.

5. Undergo Health and Character Checks
   Required for all permanent visas.

6. Wait for a Decision
   Processing times vary widely—from 3 years to 30+ years.

7. Receive Visa and Enter/Remain in Australia
   Once granted, parents can enter or stay in Australia depending on the visa type.

Processing Times for Parent Visas

• Subclass 103: Over 30 years

• Subclass 143: 4–6 years

• Subclass 804: Over 30 years

• Subclass 864: 4–6 years

• Subclass 870: 3–6 months

Note: These times are subject to change based on annual visa caps and global conditions.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early: Especially for permanent visas with long queues.

• Ensure document accuracy: Mistakes can lead to rejection or delay.

• Use a registered migration agent: For guidance through complex cases.

• Maintain health and police checks: These must be valid and current.

• Understand financial obligations: Be ready for AoS and visa charges.

Conclusion

Understanding Australia’s Parent visa options requires careful consideration of eligibility, financial resources, and long-term goals. Whether you are looking to reunite permanently with loved ones or visit for an extended period, there is likely a visa that fits your needs.

For those who prioritize permanent migration and are prepared for high costs, contributory visas like Subclass 143 or 864 offer the fastest route. On the other hand, families seeking flexibility may opt for the Subclass 870 visa for extended stays.

By preparing well in advance, gathering the correct documents, and staying informed about changes in immigration policy, families can successfully navigate Australia’s Parent visa system and enjoy the rewards of being together once again.