Parent Visas

Australian parent migration includes several visa subclasses with very different costs, processing structures, location requirements and sponsorship rules. Choosing a pathway should begin with the family’s long-term objectives rather than the subclass number alone.

Common Parent visa pathways

103

Parent visa

A permanent parent visa pathway for eligible parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens. Demand exceeds annual places and processing times are long.

143 / 173

Contributory Parent visas

The subclass 143 is a permanent contributory pathway. The subclass 173 is a temporary contributory pathway that can form part of a staged strategy. Higher government charges apply than under the standard Parent visa program.

804 / 864 / 884

Aged Parent and Contributory Aged Parent visas

Onshore parent pathways may be available where the applicant satisfies the relevant age and other requirements. Location at application and decision can be important.

870

Issues to assess before applying

whether the child sponsor is settled and eligible
whether the balance-of-family test applies to the chosen permanent pathway
applicant location and age requirements
Assurance of Support requirements where applicable
health and character issues
the practical effect of lengthy Parent visa queues
whether a temporary 870 strategy better matches the family’s immediate needs

Processing time matters

Parent visa demand is substantially greater than the number of places available. A family should consider waiting periods, travel plans, health, bridging visa consequences and alternative temporary options before choosing a pathway.

Detailed visa guides

Explore the main visa subclasses and pathways in more detail. These guides explain the structure, common eligibility questions and issues that often require closer analysis.

Visa Guide