A Comprehensive Overview of Parent Visa Options in Australia

Australia offers a variety of visa options for parents who wish to join their children in the country. These visas enable parents to live in Australia temporarily or permanently, depending on their eligibility and the visa subclass. Understanding the different Parent visa options, their requirements, processing times, and application procedures is crucial for those considering this pathway. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the various parent visa options available in Australia, and we will also touch on related visa categories such as partner and dependent visas to provide a holistic understanding.

Parent Visa Options in Australia

1. Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

The Parent Visa (Subclass 103) allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. This visa has a long waiting period, often extending to several years due to high demand.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The applicant must have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

• The child must have been living in Australia lawfully for at least two years before the application.

• The applicant must meet the balance-of-family test, meaning at least half of the applicant's children must live in Australia, or more of their children live in Australia than any other country.

• The applicant must be sponsored by their child or another eligible sponsor.

Processing Time:

Due to the high demand and limited visa places, the processing time can be over 30 years.

2. Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)

The Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) offers a faster pathway to permanent residency for parents willing to pay a higher visa application charge.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The same as for the Parent Visa (Subclass 103).

• Willingness to pay a significant second instalment visa application charge.

Processing Time:

The processing time for this visa is shorter, typically around 2-4 years.

3. Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173)

This visa allows parents to live in Australia temporarily for up to two years and can be converted to a permanent Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143).

Eligibility Criteria:

• Similar to the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143).

• The balance-of-family test and sponsorship requirements apply.

Processing Time:

Approximately 2-4 years.

4. Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)

The Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is for parents who are old enough to receive the age pension in Australia.

Eligibility Criteria:

• The applicant must be in Australia at the time of application and at least 65 years of age.

• The balance-of-family test and sponsorship requirements apply.

Processing Time:

The processing time can be very long, often extending over 30 years.

5. Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864)

This visa is for aged parents who are willing to pay a higher application charge for faster processing.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Similar to the Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804).

• Willingness to pay a higher second instalment visa application charge.

Processing Time:

Approximately 2-4 years.

Related Visa Categories

1. Partner Visa Australia Requirements

The partner visa allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia. The main requirements include:

• A genuine and ongoing relationship.

• Sponsorship by an eligible partner.

• Evidence of a shared life together.

2. Partner Visa Australia Processing Time

The processing time for partner visas can vary significantly, generally ranging from 12 to 24 months.

3. Partner Visa Australia Offshore

The offshore partner visa (Subclass 309/100) allows partners who are outside Australia to apply for a temporary (Subclass 309) and subsequently a permanent (Subclass 100) visa.

4. Prospective Marriage Visa (Subclass 300)

This visa allows individuals to come to Australia to marry their Australian partner within nine months of the visa grant.

5. Partner Visa Australia Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for the partner visa application includes:

• Proof of identity.

• Evidence of relationship (e.g., joint financial statements, photos, communication records).

• Health and character documents.

• Sponsorship form.

6. Partner Visa 309

The temporary Partner Visa (Subclass 309) allows the partner of an Australian citizen or permanent resident to live in Australia temporarily while their permanent Partner Visa (Subclass 100) is processed.

7. Temporary Partner Visa Australia

Temporary partner visas, such as the Subclass 820 (onshore) and Subclass 309 (offshore), are the first step towards permanent residency for partners of Australian citizens and residents.

8. Tourist Visa to Partner Visa Australia

Some applicants initially enter Australia on a tourist visa and then apply for an onshore partner visa (Subclass 820) while in the country.

9. Spouse Visa Australia

Spouse visas fall under the broader category of partner visas, which cater to married couples as well as de facto partners.

10. Dependent Visa Australia

Dependent visas allow family members, including children and parents, to join their relatives in Australia. These visas have specific requirements related to age, financial dependency, and relationship to the sponsor.

Conclusion

Understanding the various parent visa options in Australia is crucial for families looking to reunite. Each visa subclass has specific requirements, processing times, and costs associated with it. Navigating this complex landscape can be challenging, but enlisting the help of a migration agent in Adelaide can simplify the process and increase the chances of a successful application. Migration agents are well-versed in the latest immigration policies and can provide invaluable assistance in preparing and submitting visa applications, ensuring that all requirements are met and all documents are in order.

If you or your family are considering applying for a parent visa, partner visa, or any other dependent visa in Australia, consulting with a migration agent in Adelaide is a wise step. Their expertise and experience can guide you through the intricate procedures, making the journey towards family reunification in Australia smoother and more manageable.