Parent Visa For 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.

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.

1: 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.

2: 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.

3: 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.

4: 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.

Parent Migration Journey

Follow these three strategic steps to manage the long-term process of bringing your parents to Australia.

Step 1: Eligibility Assessment & Sponsorship

Determine if you pass the Balance of Family test and lodge the sponsorship via ImmiAccount with up-to-date income evidence.

Step 2: 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.

Step 3: Final Assessment & Second Installment

Once the queue is reached, final health checks are cleared and the large second installment (for contributory visas) is paid.

Documentation & Requirements Checklist

Prepare a comprehensive file to navigate the decades-long queue with total accuracy.

1: 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)

2: 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

3: 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)

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.