Australia offers several pathways for parents wishing to live in the country, including both permanent and temporary visa options. Whether you’re considering a Contributory Parent Visa or the Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa, it’s important to understand the differences and requirements.

Parent Visas can involve significant costs and lengthy processing times, so understanding your options before applying is essential. Some visas may take many years to process, while temporary options can allow parents to spend time with family in Australia sooner.

Contributory Parent Visa (Offshore)

  • Permanent (Subclass 143) 
  • Temporary (Subclass 173) 

These visas provide a quicker route to permanent residency, with the Subclass 173 allowing parents to reside in Australia temporarily for up to two years. After that, they can apply for the permanent Subclass 143 visa. The key features of the Contributory Parent Visa are the higher application fees and the Assurance of Support requirements. 

While these visas generally have shorter processing times compared to other Parent Visa options, applicants should plan carefully for the significant financial commitment involved, including visa charges and other associated costs.

Note: Offshore applicants are not eligible for a Bridging Visa and must apply for a visitor visa or consider a temporary Parent Visa during processing.

Aged Contributory Parent Visa (Onshore)

  • Permanent (Subclass 864) 
  • Temporary (Subclass 884) 

The Aged Contributory Parent Visa offers both temporary and permanent pathways. Applicants must meet the ‘Aged’ requirement, meaning they are old enough to qualify for an Australian pension. This visa allows applicants to stay in Australia on a temporary visa and later convert to permanent residency. 

Onshore applicants can obtain a Bridging Visa and work full-time while waiting for processing.

Choosing between an offshore and onshore application can have important implications. Onshore applicants may be able to remain in Australia while their application is processed, while offshore applicants may need to consider alternative visa options to visit family during the waiting period.

Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa (Subclass 870)

  • Temporary visa (3 to 5 years) 

This visa allows parents to live in Australia for up to 10 years in total, but it does not lead to permanent residency. To apply, a Family Sponsorship must be approved first. The sponsor must be an Australian Citizen, permanent resident, or Eligible New Zealand Citizen living in Australia for at least four years, and who earns an income above a certain threshold.

The Subclass 870 visa can be a suitable option for parents who want to spend extended periods with family in Australia without committing to a permanent visa pathway.

Parent Visa or Aged Parent Visa

  • Permanent (Subclass 103/804) 

These non-contributory Parent Visas provide a permanent pathway to residency but come with significantly longer waiting periods. The Subclass 103 Parent visa can take up to 30 years to process. 

Onshore Aged Parent Visa applicants can obtain a Bridging Visa during processing. 

Due to the long processing times for non-contributory Parent Visas, many families explore temporary alternatives while waiting or consider whether a Contributory Parent Visa may better suit their circumstances.

Key Information to Consider Before Applying

Processing Times

Parent Visa processing times can vary significantly depending on the visa type and individual circumstances. Applicants should be prepared for potentially lengthy waiting periods, particularly for non-contributory Parent Visas.

Visa Costs

Costs are an important consideration when choosing a Parent Visa pathway. Contributory Parent Visas generally have higher application fees but offer a faster pathway compared to non-contributory options. Applicants should also consider additional costs such as health checks, police checks, and financial obligations.

Onshore vs Offshore Applications

Whether you apply from inside or outside Australia can affect your visa options. Some visas allow applicants to remain in Australia while waiting, while offshore applicants may need alternative visa arrangements if they want to visit family during processing.

Healthcare Access

Parents moving to Australia should also consider healthcare arrangements. Medicare access is limited to those applicants from countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements. It is recommended that onshore applicants arrange their own private health insurance.

What You Need to Know: 

  • Most Parent Visas have a Balance of Family Test, which requires applicants to have at least half of their children as Australian citizens, permanent residents, or Eligible New Zealand citizens living in Australia. 
  • Consideration should be given to financial costs, waiting periods, and eligibility criteria before applying. 
  • Processing times can vary greatly depending on the visa type and individual circumstances. 

Understanding the differences between each Parent Visa option can help families choose a pathway that aligns with their goals, budget, and timeframe.

For more detailed information on the Parent Visa options available, get in touch with one of our immigration agents for assistance.