If you migrated to Australia some years ago to start a new life, you are probably thinking it was the best thing you ever did, while you probably miss your parents and would like them to visit you Down Under.
There are numerous types of parent visas to enter Australia, which we outline in this article.
- Parent Visa Subclass 103 – This is a permanent residency visa that allows parents or step-parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents and settled New Zealand citizens to stay in Australia. Requirements include having suitable health insurance, and assurance of financial support to ensure the visa holder will not be a financial burden on the Australian government. The applicant must be outside of Australia when applying for this visa and it can be a lengthy process. The agent might advise you to apply for a temporary visa, which can lead to permanent residency, plus the expert can answer any questions you might have.
- Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 143 – Very similar to the Subclass 103 Visa, yet the cost is much higher; when using an established agent to apply for a Parent Visa for Australia, the agent offers valuable advice. Some visa types are more expensive than others; the Subclass 143 Parent Visa is 4 times as expensive as the Subclass 103 Visa. The upside is a much faster processing time with the more expensive option; the visa agent would lay out all of the options and always has your best interests at heart.
- Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 173 – This is a temporary visa with a stay limit of 2 years. You must be sponsored by your legitimate child and when you hold this visa, you are able to apply for a permanent visa. The requirements are the same as the Subclass 103, except assurance of support and health insurance are not required. Here is an interesting article on good health for seniors.
- Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870 – A temporary visa that can extend for up to 5 years and further applications can be made up to a limit of 10 years. This visa does not permit the holder to work and your sponsor (your eligible child) must first be approved. It is typical for 2-3 years to be granted with the initial visa; this is a complex field and there’s no room for mistakes when applying for visas, a rejection is very difficult to appeal. Choosing an established visa agent in Australia is the best way forward, as they have the know-how to ensure your application will be looked on favourably. If there are options, the agent will go into detail and advise you accordingly.
If your son or daughter is living and working in Australia and you would like to visit, consult with a leading visa agency and let the experts put together your application. The protocol is very rigid and any mistake with your visa application is likely to be met with rejection and it is an uphill battle after that!
