Which Parent Visa Is Right for You? A Guide to Bringing Your Parents to Australia
Australia is known for its welcoming approach to family reunification, and parent visas are a popular option for those looking to bring their parents to join them in Australia. However, navigating the different parent visa options can be complex. In this article, we explore six common parent visa subclasses—each with its own unique features, benefits, and requirements. Whether you are looking for a permanent visa or a temporary solution, we’ve got you covered.
1. Subclass 864 – Contributory Aged Parent Visa
The Subclass 864 visa is perfect for parents who are of pension age and wish to move to Australia permanently. With this visa, they can enjoy a faster processing time in exchange for a higher application fee. It allows parents to live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
Key Features
- Permanent Residency: Grants the applicant permanent residency in Australia.
- Fast Processing: Faster processing due to the higher financial contribution.
- Eligibility: Requires the applicant to be of pension age, which is usually around 67 years or older, depending on the applicant’s birthdate.
Who Should Consider This Visa?
Parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents who meet the age requirements and are willing to make a financial contribution should consider the Subclass 864 visa.
2. Subclass 103 – Parent Visa
If budget is a concern and you don’t mind waiting, the Subclass 103 visa might be the right fit. This permanent visa option is more affordable but comes with a significant downside—extended processing times.
Key Features
- Permanent Residency: Provides a pathway to permanent residency.
- Affordable: Lower application fees compared to contributory parent visas.
- Long Processing: Expect long waiting periods due to high demand and limited availability of spots.
Who Should Consider This Visa?
Those with financial constraints who are willing to wait a few years for their visa to be processed may find the Subclass 103 a good option.
3. Subclass 804 – Aged Parent Visa
The Subclass 804 visa is similar to the Subclass 103, but it's specifically for older parents who are already in Australia on a temporary visa. If you meet the pension age requirements, this visa offers permanent residency and is another option for parents looking to settle in Australia.
Key Features
- Permanent Residency: Allows parents to stay in Australia permanently.
- Affordable: Like the Subclass 103, this visa is cost-effective.
- Eligibility: Applicants must meet the pension age criteria and be in Australia when applying.
Who Should Consider This Visa?
This visa is best for older parents who are already in Australia on a temporary visa and are looking to stay permanently.
4. Subclass 143 – Contributory Parent Visa
For those who can afford to pay higher fees in exchange for a faster processing time, the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa is an excellent choice. This visa provides permanent residency and offers a quicker path for parents who wish to reunite with their children in Australia.
Key Features
- Permanent Residency: Grants permanent residency status upon approval.
- Quick Processing: Faster processing times compared to other parent visas.
- Higher Application Fees: Requires a significant financial contribution, making it more expensive than other parent visa options.
Who Should Consider This Visa?
Parents who can afford the financial contribution, has not met the age requirements and wish to reunite with their children quickly should consider the Subclass 143 visa.
5. Subclass 173 – Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa
The Subclass 173 visa is a temporary visa that serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency. Parents can stay in Australia for up to two years while their application for the Subclass 143 is being processed.
Key Features
- Temporary Visa: Grants parents a temporary stay in Australia (up to two years).
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Allows parents to apply for the Subclass 143 during their stay.
- Financial Contribution: Like the Subclass 143, this visa requires a higher financial contribution.
Who Should Consider This Visa?
If you want to bring your parents to Australia temporarily with the intention of transitioning to permanent residency, the Subclass 173 visa is a suitable choice. Applying for a 173 visa first and then transitioning to a 143 visa allows you to spread out the high visa costs over time rather than paying the full Contributory Parent Visa fee upfront.
6. Subclass 870 – Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa
The Subclass 870 visa allows parents to live in Australia temporarily for up to five years. This visa does not lead to permanent residency, but it’s an ideal solution for parents who want to spend time with their children in Australia without long-term commitments.
Key Features
- Temporary Stay: The visa allows parents to stay for 3 to 5 years, depending on the arrangement.
- No Pathway to Permanent Residency: Unlike other parent visas, the Subclass 870 does not lead to permanent residency.
- Flexible Sponsorship: Parents can be sponsored by their children (including in-law) who are Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.
Who Should Consider This Visa?
If you are looking for a temporary solution to have your parents stay with you in Australia but do not intend to apply for permanent residency, the Subclass 870 is a great option.
How to Choose the Right Parent Visa
Selecting the right parent visa depends on your goals, financial situation, and the amount of time you’re willing to wait. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
- For permanent residency with a faster processing time: Consider the Subclass 864 or Subclass 143.
- For permanent residency with a longer waiting period: Look into the Subclass 103 or Subclass 804.
- For Permanent Residency and could not meet the age requirements: Consider the Subclass 143 or subclass 103.
- For a temporary stay with a path to permanent residency: The Subclass 173 visa is the way to go.
- For a temporary stay with no permanent residency pathway: The Subclass 870 is ideal.
Need Help Choosing the Right Parent Visa?
Navigating the different parent visa options can be overwhelming. For personalised advice and assistance with your visa application, book a complimentary consultation with the expert team at NB Migration Law. We’ll help you understand your options, streamline the application process, and guide you through every step of bringing your parents to Australia.