Parent Visa Australia: Understanding Contributory and Non-Contributory Options
Bringing your parents to Australia is a dream for many families. The Parent Visa Australia program is designed to make that possible. However, choosing the right visa pathway can be confusing, as there are two main types to consider. They are the Contributory Parent Visa and the Non-Contributory Parent Visa.
Both options allow eligible parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to reunite with their families in Australia, but they differ significantly in processing times, costs, and eligibility requirements.
Now let’s break down the key features of each pathway so you can make the most informed choice for your family’s future.
1. Contributory Parent Visa
The Contributory Parent Visa (including subclasses 143 visa, 173 visa, and 864 visa) is designed for parents who are willing and able to make a higher financial contribution to offset the healthcare and social costs to the Australian community.
Key Features:
- Higher visa application charges, but much faster processing times (usually within 3–6 years).
- Applicants can apply onshore (subclass 864) or offshore (subclass 143) depending on their circumstances.
- Parents applying onshore typically receive a Bridging Visa A, allowing them to stay lawfully in Australia while their visa application is being processed.
- Applicants must satisfy the Balance of Family Test along with health and character requirements.
Why it’s popular:
Although more expensive, the Contributory Parent Visa pathway offers faster reunification for families who wish to have their parents in Australia sooner rather than later. It’s ideal for families who are financially ready to invest in parent migration to Australia and want their parents to live with them permanently.
2. Non-Contributory Parent Visa
The Non-Contributory Parent Visa [comprising subclasses 103 visa and 804 visa (Aged Parent Visa)] is a more affordable pathway but comes with significantly longer processing times. It often exceeds 25–30 years due to limited annual quotas.
Key Features:
- Lower visa application cost compared to contributory parent visas.
- Long waiting periods because these visas are subject to strict caps each year.
- Applicants for the onshore 804 visa (Aged Parent Visa) must meet the Australian pension age, which is the age at which an Australian resident becomes eligible for the Age Pension, as defined by Services Australia.
- Onshore applicants typically receive a Bridging Visa A, allowing them to remain lawfully in Australia while waiting for their visa decision; even though the process may take decades.
- Must satisfy the Balance of Family Test, health, and character requirements.
For families looking for a cost-effective option and who are not in a rush, the Non-Contributory Parent Visa can be a suitable choice, especially for aged parents who already reside in Australia.
Balance of Family Test- A Key Requirement
Whether you apply for a Contributory Parent Visa or a Non-Contributory Parent Visa, meeting the Balance of Family Test is crucial for parent visa eligibility.
To pass this test:-
- At least half of the applicant’s children must be permanent residents or citizens of Australia, or
- More of their children must live permanently in Australia than in any other single country.
This test ensures that applicants have close family ties to Australia. An important factor when applying to sponsor parents in Australia under the Parent Visa Australia program.
Bridging Visa A for Onshore Applicants
When parents apply for their visa from within Australia, they are usually granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA).
This visa allows them to:
- Stay lawfully in Australia while your parent visa Australia application is being processed.
- Access Medicare (in most cases).
- Enjoy peace of mind knowing they can stay close to their loved ones while waiting for the outcome.
However, the Bridging Visa A does not allow international travel. Parents who wish to travel overseas while their visa is in process must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) before leaving Australia.
Quick Comparison: Contributory vs Non-Contributory Parent Visas
| Feature | Contributory Parent Visa | Non-Contributory Parent Visa |
| Processing Time | Around 3-6 years | Over 25-30 years |
| Visa Cost | Higher (significant contribution) | Lower |
| Age Requirement | No specific age limit (unless applying as an aged parent) | Must meet the Australian pension age |
| Balance of Family Test | Required | Required |
| Bridging Visa A (onshore) | Granted | Granted |
| Pathway to Permanent Residency | Yes | Yes |
Why Professional Advice Matters
Choosing between a Contributory Parent Visa and a Non-Contributory Parent Visa depends on several factors including your financial capacity, your parents’ age, your family’s structure, and your long-term migration goals.
At Visa Empire, our migration agents specialize in parent migration to Australia and can guide you through every step of the process.
Our Visa Empire migration agents help you:-
- Identify the most suitable parent visa category for your family.
- Ensure that the Balance of Family Test is satisfied.
- Lodge a complete, compliant application with all the required documents.
- Secure the correct Bridging Visa A for onshore applicants.
With our expertise, you can navigate the complex process with confidence and clarity. This will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when you decide to sponsor parents in Australia.
Final Thoughts
The Parent Visa Australia program offers a beautiful opportunity for families to reunite and create lasting memories. Understanding the differences between Contributory and Non-Contributory Parent Visas, along with key factors like the Balance of Family Test, Australian pension age, and Bridging Visa A, helps you make informed and confident decisions.
If you’re planning to bring your parents to Australia, don’t navigate this journey alone.
Our expert migration agents are here to provide personalized guidance, simplify the process, and help you achieve your family’s migration goals.
All of this is because when it comes to family, every moment together counts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for a Parent Visa in Australia?
To be eligible for a Parent Visa Australia, applicants must be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. They must also pass the Balance of Family Test, meet the required health and character standards, and have an approved sponsor. In usual cases, it is their child who is settled in Australia.
2. How long does it take to get a Parent Visa for Australia?
Processing times vary depending on the visa type. The Contributory Parent Visa (subclasses 143 visa and 864 visa) generally takes 3–6 years, while the Non-Contributory Parent Visa (subclasses 103 visa and 804 visa) can take 25–30 years or more due to limited annual caps.
3. What is the new 10-year Parent Visa in Australia?
The 10-year Parent Visa refers to the Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa (subclass 870), which allows parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Australia for up to 10 years without needing to meet the Balance of Family Test. However, this visa does not lead to permanent residency and does not allow work rights.
4. What is the best Parent Visa for Australia?
The “best” visa depends on your family’s situation. For faster processing, the Contributory Parent Visa (subclasses 143 or 864 visa) is ideal. For a more affordable option, the Non-Contributory Parent Visa (subclasses 103 visa or 804 visa) may be suitable, though the wait time is much longer. Consulting with Visa Empire migration agents can help you determine the best pathway for your circumstances.
5. Who is eligible for a Parent Visa?
Applicants are eligible if they are a biological, adoptive, or step-parent of an eligible Australian child. They must meet the Balance of Family Test, have an eligible sponsor, and meet parent visa eligibility criteria regarding age, health, and character requirements.
6. What is the new Parent Visa 2025?
The Parent Visa 2025 updates are expected to focus on streamlining application processes and reducing waiting periods under the Parent Migration Australia program. These changes may also enhance flexibility for aged parent visa applicants and sponsors, although official details should always be confirmed through Home Affairs or trusted Visa Empire migration agents.
7. Can I work in Australia on a Parent Visa?
Generally, holders of a Parent Visa Australia (including 143 visa, 103 visa, or 864 visa) do not have full work rights, as these visas are primarily designed for family reunification. However, Bridging Visa A holders awaiting decisions may have limited conditions, depending on their individual circumstances.
8. How can I permanently bring my parents to Australia?
To permanently bring your parents to Australia, you can sponsor them under either the Contributory Parent Visa (for faster approval) or the Non-Contributory Parent Visa (for a more affordable option). Working with Visa Empire migration agents ensures that your application meets all parent visa eligibility and documentation requirements for successful long-term migration.
9. How long does a Parent Visa take in Australia?
The waiting period for a Parent Visa Australia depends on the chosen subclass. The Contributory Parent Visa is processed within a few years, while the Non-Contributory Parent Visa can take several decades. Factors like the Balance of Family Test outcomes and yearly visa caps also affect processing time.
10. What is the best visa for parents in Australia?
The Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143 or 864) is widely considered the best option for those who can afford higher application fees and want faster family reunification. It leads to permanent residency and allows parents to live, study, and access Medicare in Australia. For personalized guidance, reach out to Visa Empire migration agents to determine the most suitable visa for your family’s needs.
