Parent Visa Australia: Costs, Time, Eligibility & More 2025

A Parent Visa Australia allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia. This visa helps families reunite and, in some cases, grants permanent residency.

The number of Indian parents applying for Australian Parent Visas has been increasing steadily in recent years. In the period from January to May 2021, Indian nationals lodged 1,362 parent visa applications, up from 1,049 in the same period of 2020.

In the 2022–23 program year, Parent Visa Australia, a total of 8,500 Parent Visa places were allocated, with 783 places granted to Indian nationals, accounting for 9.2% of the total. 

It's important to note that the Parent Visa Australia program has significant waiting times due to high demand and limited annual quotas. Processing times can extend up to 31 years for certain visa subclasses, leading to a substantial backlog of applications. 

Given these long waiting periods for parent visas in Australia, many applicants, including those from India, may not live to see the approval of their visa applications. Recent reports indicate that nearly 2,300 applicants have passed away while waiting for their parent visa Australia applications to be processed in the past three years.

Australia's Parent Visa program has undergone several policy changes to address processing delays and manage application backlogs. In the parent visa Australia 2019, the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) was introduced, allowing parents to stay in Australia for up to five years with sponsorship from an eligible child.

Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide to Australia Study Visa Process

Benefits of Getting a Parent Visa in Australia

Below are the key benefits of a parent visa Australia:

• Permanent Residency: Parent visa in Australia  Holders can reside in Australia indefinitely, enjoying the rights and privileges of permanent residents. 

• Work and Study Rights: They have the freedom to work and study without restrictions, enabling active participation in the Australian economy and society. 

• Healthcare Access: Parent visa in Australia Eligibility for Medicare allows access to Australia's public healthcare system, providing subsidised or free medical care.

• Social Services: Depending on specific eligibility criteria, visa holders may access certain social services and benefits available to Australian permanent residents.

• Sponsorship Rights: Parent visa Australia They can sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residency, facilitating family reunification.

• Citizenship Pathway: After meeting residency requirements, parent visa Australia may apply for Australian citizenship, subject to eligibility.

Types of Parent Visas in Australia in 2025

Australia offers several parent visa Australia options for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens. These visas are primarily categorized into two types: Contributory Parent visas and Non-Contributory Parent visas.

Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870):

Introduced in 2019, the Subclass 870 visa allows parents to visit their children in Australia for up to five years. It requires sponsorship by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This parent visa Australia is not a pathway to permanent residency.

10 Year Parent Visa Australia

The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870), commonly referred to as the 10 Year Parent Visa, allows parents of Australian citizens permanent residents to visit Australia for extended periods.

Below are the key features:

• Duration of Stay: 10 Year Parent visa Australia Holders can stay in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years per visa. After each visa period, they must remain outside Australia for at least 90 days before applying for another Subclass 870 visa. This allows for a cumulative stay of up to 10 years.

• Eligibility Criteria:

• Sponsor Requirements: The 10 year parent visa Australia sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who has been usually resident in Australia for at least four years.

• Applicant Requirements: The 10 year parent visa Australia applicant must be the biological, adoptive, or step-parent of the sponsor. Step-parents can apply only if they are still in a married or de facto relationship with the biological parent of the sponsor.

• Work Rights: This 10 year parent visa Australia does not grant work rights in Australia.

• Healthcare Access: The 10 year parent visa Australia Holders are not eligible for Medicare benefits. 

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Subclass 870 visa is a temporary visa and does not provide a pathway to permanent residency.

• Application Process: Applicants must submit an online application and pay the associated visa application charge. The processing time varies, and applicants should refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs for the most current information. 

For more detailed information, Refer here (Australian Department of Home Affairs)

The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) offers several advantages for parents seeking to reunite with their children in Australia:

• Extended Stay Duration

• Simplified Eligibility Criteria

• Cost-Effectiveness

• No Work Rights

5 Year Multiple Entry Visa Australia for Parents

The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) is a temporary visa that allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to visit Australia for extended periods. This visa is often referred to as the "5 Year Multiple Entry Visa" due to its validity and multiple entry provisions. 5 year multiple entry visa Australia for parents here-

Key Features:

• Duration of Stay: Holders can stay in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years per visa. After each visa period, they must remain outside Australia for at least 90 days before applying for another Subclass 870 visa. 5 year multiple entry visa Australia for parents allows for a cumulative stay of up to 10 years.

• Multiple Entries: The visa permits multiple entries into Australia during its validity period, providing flexibility for parents to visit their children as needed. 

• Eligibility Criteria:

• Sponsor Requirements: 5 year multiple entry visa Australia for parents; the sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who has been usually resident in Australia for at least four years.

• Applicant Requirements: The applicant must be the biological, adoptive, or step-parent of the sponsor. Step-parents can apply only if they are still in a married or de facto relationship with the biological parent of the sponsor.

• Work Rights: This visa does not grant work rights in Australia. Holders are not permitted to work during their stay.

• Healthcare Access: 5 year multiple entry visa Australia for parents. Holders are not eligible for Medicare benefits.

• Application Process: Applicants must submit an online application and pay the associated visa application of home affairs for the most current information.

 Visit here: Australian Department of Home Affairs 

Parent Visa Australia Cost: A Detailed Breakdown in 2025

The cost of obtaining a Parent Visa for Australia varies depending on the specific visa subclass and the number of applicants involved.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees associated with the most common parent visas, converted to Indian Rupees (INR) for your convenience:

1. Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173)

1. Base Application Charge: AUD 4,385

2. Additional Applicant (18 years and over): AUD 2,195

3. Additional Applicant (Under 18 years): AUD 1,095

• Second Installment (for Subclass 143 Permanent Visa): AUD 47,825 (required for the permanent visa application after holding the Subclass 173 visa)

2. Contributory Parent (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 143)

1. Base Application Charge: AUD 47,825 (This is the first instalment, paid upon application)

2. Additional Applicant (18 years and over): AUD 23,915

3. Additional Applicant (Under 18 years): AUD 11,960

• Second Installment (This is payable before the visa is granted): AUD 47,825 (for the primary applicant)

1. Additional Applicant (18 years and over): AUD 23,915

2. Additional Applicant (Under 18 years): AUD 11,960

3. Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)

1. Base Application Charge: AUD 2,755

2. Additional Applicant (18 years and over): AUD 1,375

3. Additional Applicant (Under 18 years): AUD 685

• Second Installment (for those transitioning to permanent residency): AUD 47,825 (for the primary applicant)

4. Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

1. Base Application Charge: AUD 4,240

2. Additional Applicant (18 years and over): AUD 2,120

3. Additional Applicant (Under 18 years): AUD 1,060

• Second Installment (for those transitioning to permanent residency): AUD 47,825 (for the primary applicant)

These fees are subject to change. For the most current information, refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Editor’s Note: Exchange rates fluctuate; the conversions are based on an approximate rate of 1 AUD = 50 INR.

Processing Time for Parent Visa Australia from India 2025

Processing times for parent visas in Australia vary significantly based on the specific visa subclass and the volume of applications received. As of December 2024, the waiting periods are as follows:

1. Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143):

• Processing Time: Approximately 14 years.

• Details: This visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live permanently in Australia. The extended processing time has led to significant emotional distress for many families.

2. Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804):

• Processing Time: Up to 31 years.

• Details: This visa is for parents who are aged and wish to live permanently in Australia. The lengthy processing time has resulted in applicants passing away before their visas are granted. 

3. Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173):

• Processing Time: Approximately 4 weeks.

• Details: This temporary visa allows parents to stay in Australia for up to two years. It is a pathway to the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143). 

Also Read: Why Study in Australia ? Latest Updated Guide

4. Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864):

• Processing Time: Approximately 4 weeks.

• Details: This visa is for aged parents who wish to live permanently in Australia. It requires a higher application charge compared to the standard Aged Parent Visa.

5. Parent Visa (Subclass 103):

• Processing Time: Approximately 4 weeks.

• Details: This visa allows parents to live permanently in Australia. It has a lower application charge compared to the Contributory Parent Visa but comes with longer processing times.

For the most current information, refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Eligibility Criteria for Parent Visa Australia in  2025

Australia offers several parent visa Australia options, each with specific eligibility criteria. Below is an overview of the primary parent visas and their requirements:

1. Parent Visa (Subclass 103):

1. Sponsor: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

2. Age Requirement: Applicants must be old enough to receive the Australian age pension (currently 67 years).

3. Balance of Family Test: At least half of the applicant's children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia.

4. Assurance of Support: Applicants must obtain an assurance of support from the sponsor or another eligible person.

5. Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

6. Location: Applicant must be in Australia when applying and at the time of the decision.

2. Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143):

1. Sponsor: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

2. Age Requirement: Applicants must be old enough to receive the Australian age pension (currently 67 years).

3. Balance of Family Test: At least half of the applicant's children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia.

4. Assurance of Support: Applicants must obtain an assurance of support from the sponsor or another eligible person.

5. Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

6. Location: Applicant must be outside Australia when applying and at the time of the decision.

3. Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173):

1. Sponsor: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

2. Age Requirement: Applicants must be old enough to receive the Australian age pension (currently 67 years).

3. Balance of Family Test: At least half of the applicant's children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia.

4. Assurance of Support: Applicants must obtain an assurance of support from the sponsor or another eligible person.

5. Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

6. Location: Applicant must be outside Australia when applying and at the time of the decision.

4. Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864):

1. Sponsor: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

2. Age Requirement: Applicants must be old enough to receive the Australian age pension (currently 67 years).

3. Balance of Family Test: At least half of the applicant's children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia.

4. Assurance of Support: Applicants must obtain an assurance of support from the sponsor or another eligible person.

5. Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

6. Location: Applicant must be in Australia when applying and at the time of the decision.

5. Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870):

1. Sponsor: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

2. Age Requirement: Applicant must be at least 18 years old.

3. Balance of Family Test: Not required for this visa subclass.

4. Assurance of Support: Applicants must obtain an assurance of support from the sponsor or another eligible person.

5. Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

6. Location: Applicant must be outside Australia when applying and at the time of the decision.

How to Apply for a Parent Visa to Australia?

Applying for a Parent Visa to Australia requires careful preparation and submission of various documents. Below is a comprehensive checklist to assist you in gathering the necessary materials for a parent visa Australia:

1. Identification Documents:

• Passport: Certified copy of your current passport, including the photo page and any pages with visas or stamps.

• National Identity Card: A certified copy of your national identity card, if applicable.

• Birth Certificate: A certified copy of your birth certificate showing your name and both parents' names.

• Marriage Certificate: If applicable, provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

2. Relationship Proof:

• Evidence of Relationship: Documents such as birth certificates, adoption papers, or other legal documents that establish your relationship with your child.

3. Health and Character Documents:

• Health Examinations: You must undergo health examinations as part of the visa process. Instructions will be provided after lodging your application.

• Police Clearance Certificates: Obtain police certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. Include certified translations if the documents are not in English.

4. Financial Documents:

• Contributory Parent Visa Applicants: Provide evidence of your ability to make significant financial contributions, such as bank statements, property valuations, or evidence of income or pension.

• Assurance of Support (AoS): Your child or sponsor must provide an AoS, including financial documents showing their ability to support you (e.g., bank statements, tax returns, employment contracts).

5. Supporting Documents for Aged Parent Visa:

• Proof of Age: Certified copy of a document showing you are of pension age (e.g., passport, birth certificate).

• Superannuation or Pension Statements: If you receive a pension, provide statements or letters from your pension provider.

6. Additional Documents for Sponsors:

• Form 47PA: Completed and signed application form for the Parent Visa.

• Form 40: Complete and sign the sponsorship form for your child or sponsor.

• Sponsor’s Evidence of Identity: Certified copy of your sponsor’s Australian passport, citizenship certificate, or permanent resident visa.

• Sponsor’s Proof of Relationship: If your sponsor is not your child, provide evidence of their relationship to you and your child.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Requirements of Parent Visa Australia in 2025

Applying for a Parent Visa Australia involves meeting specific eligibility criteria. Below is an overview of the primary requirements:

1. Sponsorship:

• Eligible Sponsor: You must be sponsored by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia.
  Department of Home Affairs

2. Balance of Family Test:

• Family Composition: At least half of your children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia.

3. Age Requirement:

• Age Pension Eligibility: You must be old enough to qualify for the Australian age pension, which is currently 67 years.
  Visa Australia

4. Assurance of Support:

• Financial Support: You must obtain an assurance of support from your sponsor or another eligible person, ensuring you will not rely on social security payments.
  Migration Down Under

5. Health and Character Requirements:

• Health Examination: You must meet health requirements, which may include medical assessments, chest X-rays, and HIV tests.

• Character Assessment: You must meet character requirements, including providing police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

6. Location at Time of Application:

• Application Location: For the Parent Visa (Subclass 103), you must be in Australia when applying and at the time of the decision. 

Also Read: Requirements for Australia Tourist Visa: Complete Guide

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Parent Visa in Australia?

Applying for a Parent Visa Australia involves several steps. Here's a general guide to assist you through the process:

1. Determine Eligibility:

• Sponsorship: You must be sponsored by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia.

• Balance of Family Test: At least half of your children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens residing in Australia.

• Age Requirement: You must be old enough to qualify for the Australian age pension, which is currently 67 years.

• Assurance of Support: You must obtain an assurance of support from your sponsor or another eligible person, ensuring you will not rely on social security payments.

• Health and Character Requirements: You must meet health requirements, which may include medical assessments, chest X-rays, and HIV tests. Additionally, you must meet character requirements, including providing police clearance certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.

2. Choose the Appropriate Visa Subclass:

• Parent Visa (Subclass 103): A permanent visa for parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.

• Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143): A permanent visa for parents who are willing to pay a higher application charge for faster processing.

• Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804): A permanent visa for parents who are old enough to qualify for the Australian age pension.

3. Gather Required Documents:

• Identification Documents: Certified copies of your passport, national identity card, and birth certificate.

• Relationship Proof: Documents such as birth certificates, adoption papers, or other legal documents that establish your relationship with your child.

• Health and Character Documents: Health examination results and police clearance certificates.

• Financial Documents: Evidence of your ability to make a significant financial contribution (if applicable) and assurance of support.

4. Submit the Application:

• Online Application: Applications can be lodged online through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

• Application Fee: Be prepared to pay the application fee, which varies depending on the visa subclass. Pay the parent visa Australia cost.

5. Await Processing:

• Processing Time: Processing times vary depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances. For example, the Parent Visa (Subclass 103) has a processing time of up to 30 years.
  Migration Down Under

• Bridging Visa: If you are in Australia on a valid visa, you may be granted a Bridging Visa to remain lawfully in Australia while your application is being processed.
  Visa Australia

6. Await Decision:

• Visa Grant: If your application is successful, you will be granted a visa allowing you to live in Australia.

• Visa Refusal: If your application is refused, you will be notified of the reasons for refusal and any available options for review.

Conclusion

Applying for a Parent Visa Australia involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, including sponsorship by an Australian citizen or permanent resident, passing the Balance of Family Test, and fulfilling health and character requirements. Processing times vary significantly; for example, the Parent Visa Australia (Subclass 103) can take up to 31 years, while the Contributory Parent Visa Australia (Subclass 143) may take around 12 years.

Costs also differ, with the Parent Visa (Subclass 103) application fee at approximately AUD 5,125 and the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) at AUD 48,495. Pay the parent visa cost. The application process includes gathering necessary documents, submitting the application online, and awaiting a decision. Given the complexities and potential changes in immigration policies, it's advisable to consult with a registered migration agent to explore all available options and ensure the best possible outcome for your situation.

To learn more about Parent Visa Australia, you must contact TerraTern. With an expert team and over a hundred services, TerraTern will help you achieve your dreams easily!