Recently, we've received many inquiries about parent migration. Today, we'll clarify the most common questions to help you make informed decisions.
Q: What are the requirements for parent applicants?
A:
Meet the Balance of Family Test: At least half of their children must be Australian PRs or citizens.
Have an Assurer (usually their PR/citizen child) to provide financial support.
Be in good health without serious medical conditions.
Q: What are the requirements for the sponsor?
A:
Must be an Australian PR or citizen who has lived in Australia for at least 2 years.
Commit to providing financial assurance and meet minimum income requirements.
Q: What are the common parent visa types?
A:
There are four main categories:
Subclass 103 (Non-Contributory Parent Visa)
Subclass 143 (Contributory Parent Visa)
Subclass 804 (Aged Non-Contributory Parent Visa)
Subclass 864 (Aged Contributory Parent Visa)
Key Differences: Contributory vs. Non-Contributory
Processing Times:
Non-Contributory (103/804): ~29 years waiting period
Contributory (143/864): ~12 years waiting period
Cost: Contributory visas require an additional AUD $43,600 contribution fee payable before visa grant.
Important Age Considerations
Aged Parent Visas (804/864): For parents aged 67+
Must be applied for onshore
Comes with a Bridging Visa allowing stay in Australia during processing
Can travel with a Bridging Visa B (BVB)
Younger Parents (<67):
Can apply onshore or offshore but no bridging visa
May use Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa for extended stays (3-5 years, renewable)
How to Choose the Right Visa?
For faster PR & Medicare access: Choose Contributory pathway (143/864)
Important note: Switching from 143 to 864 after turning 67 is possible but loses previous queue time - not recommended. Consider 870 visa for long stays instead.
For uncertain applicants: Start with Subclass 103 to secure a place in the queue. You can later transfer to contributory pathways while preserving queue time.
Pro Tip
The Subclass 870 Temporary Parent Visa serves as an excellent "waiting solution" - allowing extended stays while awaiting permanent visa outcomes.
Need personalized advice? Consult our registered migration agents for tailored strategies!
