Parent Visa Australia – Comparison Guide
The Parent Visa Australia – Comparison Guide has been designed to help families understand the major Australian parent visa pathways and compare key eligibility requirements, costs, processing considerations and long-term migration outcomes.
Australia offers several parent visa options. The most suitable pathway depends on individual circumstances, family composition, sponsorship arrangements, age requirements and migration goals.
- Compare major parent visa subclasses
- Understand eligibility requirements
- Review sponsorship obligations
- Explore costs and financial considerations
- Identify suitable parent visa pathways
Parent Visa Overview
Parent visas allow eligible parents of Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens to spend extended periods in Australia or obtain permanent residence.
Some parent visa pathways are temporary, while others provide permanent residence. Certain visas require applicants to satisfy the Balance of Family Test, while others focus on sponsorship and financial support requirements.
Understanding the differences between the available pathways can help families make informed decisions and avoid pursuing a visa option that may not align with their circumstances.
Parent Visa Comparison Guide
The following comparison provides a general overview of Australia's most common parent visa pathways.
Subclass 143
Type: Permanent
Suitable for: Parents seeking permanent residence.
Balance of Family Test: Usually required.
Sponsorship: Required.
View GuideSubclass 870
Type: Temporary
Suitable for: Extended family visits.
Balance of Family Test: Not required.
Sponsorship: Required.
View GuideSubclass 864
Type: Permanent
Suitable for: Eligible aged parents.
Balance of Family Test: Usually required.
Sponsorship: Required.
View GuideSubclass 804
Type: Permanent
Suitable for: Eligible aged parents.
Balance of Family Test: Usually required.
Sponsorship: Required.
View GuideWhich Parent Visa May Be Suitable?
The most suitable parent visa pathway depends on a range of factors including age, sponsorship arrangements, family circumstances, migration objectives and eligibility requirements.
While some families prioritise permanent residence, others may prefer temporary options that allow parents to spend extended periods in Australia without pursuing permanent migration.
Families Seeking Permanent Residence
Contributory Parent Visa and Aged Parent Visa pathways may be appropriate for families seeking long-term settlement outcomes.
Families Seeking Temporary Stay Options
The Sponsored Parent Visa (Subclass 870) may provide a flexible option for extended family reunification without immediate permanent residence.
Parents Meeting Aged Parent Criteria
Aged Parent Visa pathways may offer additional options for applicants who satisfy the relevant age requirements.
Families Requiring Strategic Advice
Where multiple pathways appear available, professional migration advice may help identify the most suitable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which parent visa provides permanent residence in Australia?
Several parent visa pathways may provide permanent residence, including the Contributory Parent Visa and certain Aged Parent Visa subclasses, subject to eligibility requirements.
What is the main difference between the Subclass 143 and Subclass 870 visas?
The Subclass 143 visa is a permanent residence pathway, whereas the Subclass 870 visa is a temporary parent visa designed for extended stays in Australia.
Do all parent visas require the Balance of Family Test?
No. Some parent visa pathways require applicants to satisfy the Balance of Family Test, while others operate under different eligibility frameworks.
Can parents remain in Australia while a parent visa application is being processed?
The answer depends on the visa subclass, the applicant's circumstances and any visas held at the time of application.
What additional costs should families consider apart from government application charges?
Depending on the visa pathway, families may need to consider medical examinations, police clearances, translations, migration advice costs and Assurance of Support requirements.
Can parents apply if some of their children live outside Australia?
Possibly. Certain visa subclasses require applicants to satisfy the Balance of Family Test, which examines where children are ordinarily resident.
How do families determine which parent visa is most suitable?
Suitability depends on factors such as age, sponsorship eligibility, financial circumstances, migration goals and the family's preferred long-term outcome.
Reviewed by Principal Migration Consultant
This page has been reviewed by Mohammad Reza Azimi, Principal Migration Consultant at Shada Migration. Mohammad has assisted clients with Australian migration matters since 2009 and holds a Graduate Certificate in Migration Law from the Australian National University (ANU).
Need Help Comparing Parent Visa Options?
Choosing between different parent visa pathways can be challenging. Understanding eligibility requirements, sponsorship obligations, processing considerations and long-term migration outcomes may help families identify the most appropriate parent visa strategy.
