Contributory parent visas have significantly higher government fees but are processed much faster. Non-contributory visas are cheaper but involve extremely long waiting times, and many are closed to new applications.
Bridging Visa (BVs)
Australian Parent Visa
An Australian Parent Visa allows eligible parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to reunite with their children in Australia.
There are both onshore and offshore pathways, with different costs, processing times, and eligibility requirements. Contributory parent visas are more expensive but are generally processed faster than traditional non-contributory parent visas, many of which are now closed to new applicants.
If you are unsure which parent visa is best for your situation, our team can provide clear, honest advice tailored to your family’s circumstances.
Reunite with Your Children
Onshore & Offshore Options
Temporary to Permanent Pathways
Key Highlights of Australian Parent Visas
Family Reunification
Enables parents to live closer to their children settled in Australia.
Onshore & Offshore Pathways
Different visa subclasses are available depending on whether you are inside or outside Australia.
Contributory Options
Higher government fees but significantly faster processing compared to non-contributory visas.
Permanent Residency Outcomes
Most contributory parent visas lead to Australian permanent residency.
Types of Australian Parent Visas
Onshore Parent Visas
Contributory Aged Parent (Residence) Visa – Subclass 864:
A permanent visa for aged parents already in Australia. Faster processing but higher fees.
Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa – Subclass 884:
A two-year temporary visa that allows holders to later transition to the permanent Subclass 864.
Offshore Parent Visas
Contributory Parent (Migrant) Visa – Subclass 143:
A permanent visa for parents applying from overseas, with faster processing than non-contributory visas.
Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa – Subclass 173:
A two-year temporary visa that provides a pathway to the permanent Subclass 143 visa.
Closed or Transition Visas
Aged Parent Visa – Subclass 804 and
Parent Visa – Subclass 103 are no longer open to new applicants.
Existing holders of Subclass 173 and 884 can transition to Subclass 143 or 864 respectively for permanent residency.
Need help with a Parent Visa?
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Key Eligibility & Pathway Overview
Core Eligibility
- • Eligible Child in Australia: You must be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- • Location Requirements: Certain visas, such as Subclass 864 and 884, must be lodged onshore. Subclass 143 and 173 are lodged offshore.
- • Age Requirements: Aged parent visas require the applicant to meet age criteria similar to the Australian Age Pension age.
Financial, Support & Processing
- • Contributory Visa Costs: Contributory visas have higher government charges but shorter processing times.
- • Assurance of Support: Most parent visas require an Assurance of Support (AoS) to meet financial responsibility requirements.
- • Health & Character: Applicants and any dependants must meet strict health and character criteria.
Australian Parent Visa – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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1. What is the difference between contributory and non-contributory parent visas?
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2. Can I apply for a parent visa while inside Australia?Yes. Certain visas such as Subclass 864 and 884 can be applied for onshore if you meet the age, sponsorship, and other eligibility requirements.
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3. How long do parent visa applications take to process?Contributory parent visas generally have shorter processing times than non-contributory visas. Exact timeframes depend on the Department’s queue, planning levels, and annual caps.
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4. Is an Assurance of Support (AoS) required?Yes. Most parent visas require an Assurance of Support to demonstrate that financial support will be available and to limit reliance on government benefits.
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5. Can I include dependants in a parent visa application?In limited situations, certain dependent family members may be included, depending on the visa subclass and their eligibility.
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6. Can a parent visa lead to permanent residency?Yes. Contributory parent visas such as Subclass 143 and 864 grant permanent residency directly, while Subclass 173 and 884 provide a temporary visa that can transition to permanent residency.