Is the 10-Year Parent Visa the Best Option for Families in Australia?

Bringing your parents to Australia for an extended stay is a big decision—one that involves costs, requirements, and visa options. The 10-Year Parent Visa Australia (Subclass 870) allows parents to stay for up to a decade, but is it the best option for your family? Understanding the 10-Year Parent Visa Australia cost, eligibility, and sponsorship requirements is crucial before applying. We’ll break down everything from the 870 Visa Australia process to how it compares with other parent visas—so you can confidently decide if this 10-Year Visa Australia is worth it. Let’s dive into the details and help you plan the best future for your family!

What Is the 10-Year Parent Visa?

The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (Subclass 870) is a lifeline for parents wanting to spend extended time with their children in Australia without committing to permanent residency. This visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to stay for up to five years per visa, with the possibility of renewal for another five years, adding up to a maximum stay of ten years. However, it comes with a major caveat—no pathway to permanent residency.

Who Can Apply for the 10-Year Parent Visa?

Not every parent can pack their bags and move in for a decade. The eligibility criteria include:

• Parents must be biological, adoptive, or step-parents of an eligible sponsor.
• The sponsoring child must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Sponsors must meet income requirements and commit to supporting their parents financially.
• Parents must have adequate health insurance for the duration of their stay.
• No work rights are granted under this visa.

Cost Breakdown: Is It an Affordable Option?

While the visa grants long-term stay, it does come with a hefty price tag.

• The application fee starts at AUD 5,735 for a three-year visa and AUD 11,470 for a five-year visa.
• Sponsors must prove they earn at least AUD 83,454.80 annually.
• Mandatory health insurance can add thousands per year.
• Other costs include biometrics, police checks, and travel expenses.

Also Read: Can I Switch From a Visit Visa to a Work Visa in Australia in 2025?

Benefits of the 10-Year Parent Visa

For families wanting flexibility, this visa offers: 

Extended stay – Parents can stay for up to ten years without reapplying frequently.
Multiple entries – Parents can travel in and out of Australia as needed.
No work restrictions – While working isn’t allowed, parents can engage in volunteer activities or help with childcare.

Limitations and Drawbacks

While attractive, the visa has its limitations:
No pathway to PR – Unlike other parent visas, Subclass 870 does not lead to permanent residency.
Expensive sponsorship – Sponsors must meet stringent financial requirements.
Temporary nature – Parents must leave after ten years unless they secure a different visa.

How Does It Compare to Other Parent Visas?

For those seeking permanent residency, the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa is a better option, albeit more expensive and with longer wait times. Key comparisons:

• Subclass 870 (Temporary): Faster processing, no PR pathway, costly but flexible.
• Subclass 143 (Contributory Parent Visa): Provides PR, costs over AUD 48,000, but takes several years to process.
• Subclass 103 (Non-Contributory Parent Visa): Cheapest option, but with a 30+ year wait time.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sponsorship approval – The sponsoring child must apply for sponsorship first.
2. Visa application – Once sponsorship is approved, the parent can lodge their visa application.
3. Health & character checks – Parents must pass medical examinations and police checks.
4. Processing time – Applications take 3-6 months, but times vary.
5. Visa grant & travel – Once granted, parents can enter and stay for the approved duration.

Is the 10-Year Parent Visa Right for Your Family?

Deciding on this visa depends on:

• Long-term family goals – If PR is a must, other options are better.
• Financial capability – Can you afford sponsorship costs?
• Flexibility needs – If permanent settlement isn’t necessary, this visa is ideal.

Conclusion

The Subclass 870 visa is a great option for families looking for long-term parental visits without permanent residency. However, it’s an expensive, temporary solution with strict sponsorship requirements. If your goal is eventual PR, you might want to explore Contributory Parent Visas instead