Parent Visa Options Australia: 103, 143 and 870 Explained for Families

Many migrants dream of bringing their parents to Australia for a longer stay or permanent settlement. Australia offers different parent visa options, but choosing the right pathway requires patience and planning.

Home Affairs states that Australia offers both temporary and permanent visa options for parents of settled Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens to reunite with their children in Australia.

Parent Visa 103

The Parent Visa subclass 103 is a permanent visa for parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens. It can be attractive because it is a permanent pathway, but families must understand processing queues and long-term planning.

Contributory Parent Visa 143

The Contributory Parent Visa subclass 143 is another permanent option. It usually involves higher government charges but may be considered by families wanting a contributory parent pathway.

Sponsored Parent Temporary Visa 870

The Sponsored Parent Temporary Visa subclass 870 allows a parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen to visit Australia for up to three or five years. This can be useful for families wanting longer temporary stays without immediately pursuing permanent parent visa options.

Balance of family test

For several permanent parent visa subclasses, the balance of family test is important. Home Affairs states that this test applies to parent visas including 103, 143, 173, 804, 864 and 884, and it will not be waived even in compelling or exceptional circumstances.

Final word

Parent visa planning is emotional and technical. Families should compare cost, timeline, temporary stay needs and eligibility before choosing.