For most migrants, Australia feels unfinished until their parents can join them. Fortunately, Australia values family reunions and offers several parent visa options. These visas allow citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents to live with them.

The process, however, can be complex. There are strict rules, financial checks, and long waiting periods. This Arch Migration guide outlines the main parent visa routes and explains why professional help matters. For a full overview of Australia’s migration process, read our blog: The Ultimate Guide to Migrating to Australia: Visas, Pathways & Tips.

Why Consider a Parent Visa?

Parent visas allow families to reunite and live together in Australia.

Benefits include:

  • Parents can stay in Australia long term.

  • Permanent visas give access to Medicare.

  • Families enjoy the comfort of living close together.

Principal Parent Visa Options

Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143 and 173)

These visas are faster to process but come with higher costs.

  • Subclass 143 (Permanent): Grants direct permanent residence.

  • Subclass 173 (Temporary): Two-year stay with the option to move to Subclass 143.

Tip: Ask about all costs in advance, including the migration agent fee for preparing and submitting your application.

Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

A permanent visa with lower fees than contributory visas. The drawback is the very long waiting time, often decades.

Tip: Families often apply early to secure a place in the queue.

Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)

This visa is for older parents who are of pension age and already in Australia. It provides permanent residency but has very long processing times. Many applicants remain on bridging visas while waiting.

Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)

This visa lets parents stay in Australia temporarily for up to five years, with the option to renew. However, it does not provide permanent residency.

Key points:

  • No balance-of-family test required.

  • Faster than permanent visas.

  • No access to Medicare.

Tip: Popular for families waiting on permanent visas.

Key Eligibility Requirements

Most parent visas require applicants to meet:

  • Balance-of-family test: At least half of the children must live in Australia.

  • Health and character checks: Medical exams and police clearances are mandatory.

  • Assurance of Support: Sponsors must show financial ability to support their parents.

Because the rules are strict, professional advice can save time and prevent errors.

Why Hire Arch Migration?

Parent visas are expensive and time-consuming. A small mistake can lead to delays or refusals. Arch Migration can make the process smoother.

We provide:

  • Clear guidance on which visa suits your family.

  • Accurate timelines and fee information.

  • Help with documents and sponsorship duties.

  • Full transparency on the migration agent fee.

Whether you’re applying now or just exploring options, working with licensed migration agents in Sydney NSW ensures your application is accurate and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your parents to Australia is a life-changing step. The best visa depends on your family’s needs, budget, and goals.

Instead of facing costly delays, let Arch Migration guide you. From eligibility checks to final submission, we’ll support you every step of the way.

For a deeper look at Australia’s migration system, don’t miss our full guide: The Ultimate Guide to Migrating to Australia: Visas, Pathways & Tips.

Your parents belong with you in Australia. Arch Migration can help make that happen.