Parent Visa
| Visa Subclass | Visa Type | Description | Cost | Processing Time | Key Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 103 | Parent Visa (Permanent) | Allows parents to live permanently in Australia. | From AUD 5,125 | Up to 30 years | Must meet the balance-of-family test; long processing time. |
| Subclass 143 | Contributory Parent Visa (Permanent) | Grants permanent residency with faster processing than Subclass 103. | From AUD 48,495 | Up to 10 years | Must meet the balance-of-family test; higher cost but faster processing. |
| Subclass 173 | Contributory Parent Visa (Temporary) | Temporary visa allowing parents to stay in Australia; can transition to Subclass 143. | From AUD 32,430 | Up to 10 years | Must meet the balance-of-family test; can apply for Subclass 143 after. |
| Subclass 804 | Aged Parent Visa (Permanent) | For aged parents; allows permanent stay in Australia. | From AUD 5,125 | Up to 30 years | Must meet the balance-of-family test; applicant must be in Australia; long processing time. |
| Subclass 864 | Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Permanent) | For aged parents; offers faster processing than Subclass 804. | From AUD 48,495 | Up to 10 years | Must meet the balance-of-family test; higher cost but faster processing; applicant must be in Australia. |
| Subclass 884 | Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Temporary) | Temporary visa for aged parents; can transition to Subclass 864. | From AUD 32,430 | Up to 10 years | Must meet the balance-of-family test; applicant must be in Australia; can apply for Subclass 864 after. |
| Subclass 870 | Sponsored Parent Visa (Temporary) | Allows parents to visit Australia for up to 3 or 5 years. | From AUD 5,895 for 3 years; From AUD 11,785 for 5 years | 6-12 months | Does not require balance-of-family test; must be sponsored by an eligible child. |
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Contributory Aged Parent Visa – A Comprehensive Pathway for Aged Parents to Join Family in Australia
The Contributory Aged Parent Visa offers a streamlined, albeit more costly, pathway for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to obtain permanent residency in Australia. With this visa, parents can benefit from significantly faster processing times than other aged parent visas, though they are required to meet specific eligibility and financial requirements. This visa provides a flexible option for family reunification, with both a direct pathway (Subclass 864) and a transition pathway (Subclass 884 to 864).
Benefits of the Contributory Aged Parent Visa
Faster Processing
Compared to other aged parent visas, the Contributory Aged Parent Visa is processed more quickly, allowing families to reunite sooner.
Permanent Residency Pathway
This visa grants aged parents the right to live in Australia permanently, with access to Medicare and other social services.
Two-Step Pathway
For those preferring to split the cost, the Subclass 884 (Temporary) visa offers a way to enter Australia, with the option to transition to the Subclass 864 visa for permanent residency within two years.
Exemptions
Applicants do not need to meet the “No Further Stay” condition if they hold a visa without condition 8503 and can apply for the 864 visa while in Australia.
This visa is ideal for families who value proximity and are willing to pay a higher fee for expedited processing. It is especially beneficial for parents who meet the age and balance of family requirements.
Dreaming of Australia? Let’s Make It Happen!
Eligibility Criteria and Key Requirements
Age Requirement
Applicants must be of retirement age, currently set at 67 years.
Balance of Family Test
At least half of the applicant’s children must live in Australia, or more children must reside in Australia than in any other country.
Sponsorship
A settled Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen must sponsor the applicant. The sponsor must have lived in Australia lawfully for at least two years prior to the application.
Assurance of Support
Applicants must provide a 10-year bond as an assurance of support, with payments refundable if unused.
Assurance of Support Costs
- Single Adult: AUD 10,000
- Two Adults: AUD 14,000
The assurance is typically lodged and held for ten years to cover any potential public welfare costs.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
Understanding potential pitfalls in the application process can significantly improve the chances of approval. Here are common reasons for visa refusal:
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
Submitting applications with missing or inaccurate information can lead to immediate rejection. Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate.
2. Failure to Meet Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must satisfy specific health and character standards. Not meeting these criteria can result in refusal.
3. Insufficient Financial Evidence
Inability to demonstrate adequate financial means to support oneself in Australia may lead to rejection. Providing clear evidence of financial stability is crucial.
4. Inaccurate Information or Misrepresentation
Providing false or misleading information can not only lead to refusal but may also impact future visa applications. Honesty and accuracy are imperative.
5. Not Meeting the Balance of Family Test
Failing to satisfy the requirement that at least half of the applicant’s children reside permanently in Australia can result in refusal. Ensure this criterion is met before applying.
Two-Step Application Process: 884/864 Pathway
The Contributory Aged Parent Visa offers a unique two-step process:
Temporary Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 884)
This temporary visa allows aged parents to live in Australia for up to two years. It provides a flexible and cost-effective entry point before transitioning to a permanent visa.
Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864)
Within two years of holding a Subclass 884 visa, applicants can apply for Subclass 864 for permanent residency.
Bridging Visas for Onshore Applicants
Applicants who apply for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa while in Australia may be granted a Bridging Visa, allowing them to remain legally in the country while awaiting a decision.
Bridging Visa A (BVA)
Allows applicants to stay in Australia without travel rights. For those who need to travel, a Bridging Visa B (BVB) must be applied for.
Bridging Visa B (BVB)
Grants travel rights while the visa application is processed, providing flexibility for applicants who may need to leave Australia temporarily.
Application Fees and Installments
The Contributory Aged Parent Visa requires a substantial financial commitment. Here’s a breakdown:
- Base Application Fee: AUD 4,765
- Additional Applicant (over 18): AUD 2,380
- Additional Applicant (under 18): AUD 1,195
- Second Installment: AUD 43,600 per applicant
- Subclass 884 Initial Application
- Base Application Fee: AUD 4,765
- Second Installment: AUD 29,130 per applicant
- Subclass 864 Transition from 884
- Base Application Fee: AUD 420
- Second Installment: AUD 19,420 per applicant
Recent Policy Updates
Staying informed about the latest policy changes is essential for a successful application. Notable updates include:
Processing Pause for Secondary Applicants
The Department of Home Affairs has temporarily paused processing for secondary applicants in cases where the primary applicant has passed away. This affects onshore contributory aged parent visas (subclasses 864 and 884).
Impact of Pension Age Increase
The Australian pension age increased to 67 years on July 1, 2023. This change affects eligibility for certain visas, including the Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864).
How We Can Help
The application process for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa is complex and involves significant financial commitments. Our experienced team can assist with every step:
- Eligibility Assessment: We help determine if you meet the age, balance of family, and financial criteria.
- Sponsorship and Assurance of Support: We guide both the applicant and sponsor through the assurance of support process to ensure compliance.
- Comprehensive Application Preparation: From bridging visas to temporary and permanent pathways, we provide complete support to maximize your chances of a successful application.
- Tailored Advice for Transition Pathways: If you prefer the two-step 884/864 approach, we’ll help manage the process to ensure a smooth transition to permanent residency.
Start your journey towards family reunification with our professional guidance. Reach out to us today for personalized support on your Contributory Aged Parent Visa application.
FAQs
Can I apply for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa if I’m already on a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)?
Yes, if you’re in Australia on a Subclass 600 visa without condition 8503 (No Further Stay), you can apply for the 864 visa while in the country.
What if I need to travel while my visa is being processed?
If you apply onshore, you’ll likely receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) without travel rights. You can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to allow travel during processing.
How long does the processing take for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa?
Processing times for this visa can be lengthy, with high demand and an annual cap affecting wait times. The exact duration can vary; please consult current processing estimates.
What is the Balance of Family Test?
To meet this test, at least half of your children must reside in Australia, or you must have more children in Australia than in any other country.
What if I can’t afford the full fee upfront?
The two-step 884/864 pathway allows you to spread the cost over time, making it more affordable by first applying for the Subclass 884 (temporary) visa before transitioning to the permanent 864 visa.
