Parent Visa For Australia
Reunite Your Family In Australia
Reunite Your Family In Australia
The Australian Parent Visa program offers pathways for parents of citizens or permanent residents to relocate to Australia. In 2026, the program balances "Contributory" streams for faster processing and "Non-Contributory" options for affordability, all requiring a clear understanding of the Balance of Family test.
Service Highlights
Balance Of Family Test
Understand whether your family structure meets the key eligibility test.
Sponsor And Income Review
Check settled sponsor status and income threshold requirements.
Long-Term Planning
Compare waiting times, costs and temporary alternatives.
Document Accuracy
Prepare identity, family, health, character and sponsorship evidence.
2026 Parent Visa Streams & Wait Times
Compare the primary pathways based on processing speed, residency status, and financial commitment.
| Visa Category | 2026 Total Cost (Est.) | Estimated Queue |
|---|---|---|
| Contributory (143/864) | AUD 48,640+ | 12 – 15 Years |
| Non-Contributory (103/804) | AUD 7,345+ | 25 – 30+ Years |
| Sponsored Temp (870) | AUD 6,070 – 12,140 | 1 – 6 Months |
| Aged Parent Onshore | Varies By Subclass | Permanent (Aged 67+) |
As of 2026, the Subclass 143 remains a popular choice despite the significant second-instalment fee. For those who do not meet the "Balance of Family" test, the Subclass 870 offers a 10-year stay alternative, while "Aged" pathways are reserved for those who have reached the Australian pension age of 67.
Parent Visa Essentials
To qualify for a Parent Visa in 2026, both the applicant and the sponsor must satisfy these core legal pillars.
Balance Of Family Test
- Requirement: At least half of your children must live in Australia, or more live here than in any other single country.
- Advantage: Confirms the applicant's primary familial ties are within Australia.
Eligible Sponsor & Income
- Requirement: Child must be a "settled" Australian citizen or PR; 870 visa sponsors must meet the AUD 83,454.80 income threshold.
- Advantage: Ensures the sponsor can provide adequate financial support for the parents.
Assurance Of Support (Aos)
- Requirement: A legal commitment and financial bond (up to AUD 14,000) to ensure parents do not rely on social security.
- Check: The bond for contributory visas is typically held for a period of 10 years.
Health & Character Standards
- Requirement: Parents must pass rigorous medical exams and provide police clearances from all countries of residence.
- Advantage: Maintains the integrity of the Australian healthcare system and community safety.
The Parent Migration Journey
Follow these three strategic steps to manage the long-term process of bringing your parents to Australia.
Eligibility Assessment & Sponsorship
Determine if you pass the Balance of Family test and lodge the sponsorship via ImmiAccount with up-to-date income evidence.
The Queue & Bridging Period
Applications are placed in a queue; onshore "Aged" applicants often receive a Bridging Visa A to remain in Australia during the wait.
Final Assessment & Second Installment
Once the queue is reached, final health checks are cleared and the large second installment (for contributory visas) is paid.
Essential Documents & Parent Requirements
Prepare a comprehensive file to navigate the decades-long queue with total accuracy.
Identity & Family Documents
- Birth certificates for the applicant and all children
- Proof of the sponsor’s Australian citizenship or permanent residency
- Marriage certificates (if applicable)
Financial & Sponsorship Evidence
- Sponsor’s Australian tax assessments for the last financial year
- Assurance of Support bond documentation
- Proof of "settled" status for the sponsoring child
Health & Character Records
- Police certificates from every country lived in for 12+ months
- Medical examination results from approved panels
- Evidence of private health insurance (especially for 870 holders)
Specific Visa Forms
- Balance of Family test assessment form
- Form 80 for character assessment
- 870 sponsorship approval notification (if applicable)
Success Strategy & 2026 Guidance
Navigating the Parent Visa program is a long-term commitment that requires careful financial planning. With wait times for permanent residency now measured in decades, a single mistake can result in years of lost time. It is a good idea to chat with our experts to evaluate your Balance of Family status and ensure your sponsorship documents meet the latest 2026 income thresholds. By choosing professional guidance, you gain a realistic roadmap for your family’s future in Australia.
Check Your Parent Eligibility
Complete the form and our team will contact you with the next steps.