The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 870) provides an opportunity for parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to visit their children in Australia for extended periods. This visa is designed to facilitate family reunification while maintaining temporary residency. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key features, limitations, and Australian legalities associated with this visa, along with a call to action for those seeking expert advice.
Key Features of the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa
- Purpose and Duration of Stay The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa allows parents to visit Australia for either 3 or 5 years per visa. However, it is important to note that this visa does not lead to permanent residency. Applicants can apply for further visas, but the cumulative stay cannot exceed a total of 10 years. This visa does not permit work during the stay.
- Visa Conditions and Restrictions
- Non-Work: Holders of this visa are not allowed to work in Australia.
- No Pathway to Permanent Residence: This visa does not offer a pathway to permanent residency or future parent visas.
- Re-Application: After the maximum 10-year stay, individuals must leave Australia or obtain a different visa to remain.
- Application and Sponsorship
- Sponsorship Requirement: An approved parent sponsor is required to apply for sponsorship. A sponsor can cover up to two parents at a time, and only one sponsorship application shall be lodged per household. Minimum Income Threshold is over $87,000/ year.
- Application Location: The application must be lodged from outside Australia, unless exceptional circumstances allow for an in-country application with Permission to Apply.
- Visa Costs The visa costs are as follows:
- AUD 5,895 for a visa valid up to 3 years
- AUD 11,785 for a visa valid up to 5 years the costs are payable in two instalments: the first at application and the second when requested. Additional expenses may include health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.
- Visa Validity and Travel Visa holders can travel to and from Australia multiple times within the visa’s validity period. The visa’s end date is specified in the grant letter and may be influenced by factors such as the sponsorship cessation date.
Australian Legalities to Consider
- Visa Application Process
- Correct Documentation: Ensure that all documents are completed accurately and submitted with the application to avoid delays.
- Processing Times: Processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the completeness of the information provided. Applicants should use the visa processing time guide tool for an estimate.
- Visa Conditions Compliance
- Legal Obligations: Visa holders must adhere to all Australian laws and visa conditions. Failure to comply can result in visa cancellation.
- Visa Label: This visa is linked electronically to the passport. No physical visa label is provided.
- Extension and Re-Application
- Cumulative Stay Limit: The visa allows for a maximum cumulative stay of 10 years. After this period, a new visa type must be sought to remain in Australia.
- Departure Requirement: To apply for another Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa, applicants must be outside Australia for at least 90 days unless granted Permission to Apply while in Australia.
- Sponsorship Limitations
- Household Limitations: Sponsors can only support one application at a time, and they must wait until the current sponsorship ends before applying for a new one.
- Exceptional Circumstances
- Permission to Apply in Australia: In rare cases, permission may be granted to apply while in Australia if the applicant faces severe hardship such as serious illness or a natural disaster preventing return to their home country.
Navigating the complexities of the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa requires a thorough understanding of its features, limitations, and the associated legalities. If you are considering this visa or need guidance on any related matter, our team at NB Migration is here to help. We offer expert advice tailored to your specific situation and ensure that your application process is as smooth as possible.
Book your complimentary consultation with our team at NB Migration today and take the first step towards reuniting with your family in Australia.
For more information or to schedule your consultation, visit NB Migration’s website or contact us directly. We look forward to assisting you!