Family Visa Pathway
Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 884)
The Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 884) allows eligible aged parents of Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens to stay in Australia temporarily.
This visa forms part of the contributory aged parent visa pathway and may provide a route to the permanent Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864).
- Temporary visa for eligible aged parents
- Must generally be in Australia when applying
- Balance of Family Test generally applies
- Sponsorship is generally required
- May provide a pathway to the permanent Subclass 864 visa
Stage 1
Who Can Apply? & Aged Parent Eligibility
The Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 884) is a temporary visa for eligible aged parents who are in Australia and want to remain with family while progressing through the contributory aged parent pathway. It may provide a route to the permanent Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864).
Applicants generally need to be the parent of an eligible child in Australia and meet the aged parent requirement, which is linked to Australian Age Pension age. The qualifying age can change, so the current requirement should be checked before lodgement.
Applicants must also satisfy Australia’s health and character requirements.
Stage 2
Subclass 884 vs Subclass 864
The Subclass 884 and Subclass 864 visas are closely connected but provide different outcomes.
Stage 3
Pre-Lodgement Requirements & Guides
Before lodging a Subclass 884 application, families should confirm the core eligibility requirements and use the detailed guides where a requirement needs closer review.
- Be an aged parent under migration legislation
- Be sponsored by an eligible sponsor
- Satisfy the Balance of Family Test
- Meet health requirements
- Meet character requirements
- Generally be in Australia when applying
Balance of Family Test
The Balance of Family Test is an important eligibility requirement for aged parent visa pathways.
Sponsorship Requirements
The applicant generally requires sponsorship from an eligible child or another eligible sponsor.
Stage 4
Benefits of the Subclass 884 Visa
The Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa offers eligible aged parents an opportunity to remain in Australia while progressing towards permanent residence.
Remain in Australia
Stay in Australia with family while progressing through the contributory aged parent pathway.
Family Reunification
Spend more time with children and grandchildren living in Australia.
Pathway to Subclass 864
Eligible applicants may later apply for the permanent Contributory Aged Parent Visa.
Staged Payment Option
Allows some families to spread contributory parent visa costs over multiple stages.
Stage 6
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Subclass 884 visa?
The Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa is a temporary visa that may provide a pathway to the permanent Subclass 864 visa.
Is the Subclass 884 visa a permanent visa?
No. The Subclass 884 visa is a temporary visa.
What is an aged parent?
An aged parent is generally a parent who meets the age requirement linked to Australian Age Pension eligibility.
Does the Balance of Family Test apply?
Yes. Applicants generally need to satisfy the Balance of Family Test unless an exemption applies.
Can I later apply for the Subclass 864 visa?
Yes. The Subclass 884 visa is commonly used as a pathway to the permanent Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864).
Do health and character requirements apply?
Yes. Applicants must satisfy Australia's health and character requirements.
Do I need to be in Australia when applying?
The Subclass 884 visa is generally intended for applicants who are in Australia at the time of application.
Should I choose Subclass 884 or Subclass 864?
The answer depends on your migration strategy, budget and long-term objectives. Professional advice can help identify the most suitable option.
Next step
Get Advice About Your Family Visa Options
Family visa matters depend on the applicant, sponsor, family circumstances and supporting evidence. A consultation can help identify the appropriate pathway and the issues to address before lodgement.
