Overview of Australian Parent Visas: Subclasses & Options
Migrating to Australia as a parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident is a significant and often expensive process. The Australian Parent Visa program allows parents to join their children in Australia on a temporary or permanent basis, but the costs involved can be substantial.
There are two main categories of Australian Parent Visas: Contributory Parent Visas and Non-Contributory Parent Visas. The primary difference between them is processing time and cost—while Contributory Parent Visas are processed faster, they come with higher fees, whereas Non-Contributory Parent Visas are much cheaper but can take decades to process.
Understanding the cost structure of each visa type, additional expenses, and financial support options can help families make an informed decision about the best pathway for reuniting in Australia.
Cost Comparison: Contributory vs. Non-Contributory Parent Visas
The cost of an Australian Parent Visa varies depending on whether an applicant chooses a Contributory or Non-Contributory Visa pathway. Here’s a detailed cost breakdown for 2025:
1. Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143 – Permanent) & (Subclass 173 – Temporary)
The Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa is the fastest option for permanent residency but is also the most expensive. The Subclass 173 visa is a temporary version of the 143 visa, allowing applicants to pay in two installments before transitioning to permanent residency.
- Subclass 143 (Permanent) Visa Fee: AUD 48,365 per applicant
- Subclass 173 (Temporary) Visa Fee: AUD 31,980, with an additional AUD 19,420 required when transitioning to the 143 permanent visa
- Processing Time: 4 to 6 years
This visa is popular among parents who want permanent residency as quickly as possible and can afford the high upfront cost.
2. Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 103 – Permanent)
The Subclass 103 Parent Visa is a much cheaper alternative but comes with extremely long processing times—often over 30 years.
- Subclass 103 Visa Fee: AUD 6,625 per applicant
- Processing Time: 30+ years
Due to the extensive waiting period, many families avoid this visa unless they are willing to wait decades for approval.
3. Aged Parent Visas (Subclass 804 – Non-Contributory)
For parents who meet the Australian age pension eligibility, the Subclass 804 Aged Parent Visa offers a cheaper alternative to the 143 visa, but with longer processing times.
- Subclass 804 Visa Fee: AUD 6,625
- Processing Time: 20+ years
Applicants must be old enough to qualify for an Australian age pension and remain in Australia on a Bridging Visa while waiting for a decision.
4. Sponsored Temporary Parent Visa (Subclass 870)
The Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa allows parents to stay in Australia for up to 10 years without needing permanent residency. However, this visa does not provide a pathway to PR.
- 3-Year Visa Fee: AUD 5,735
- 5-Year Visa Fee: AUD 11,470
- 10-Year Visa Fee: AUD 21,735
While it is cheaper than a Contributory Parent Visa, the 870 visa does not lead to PR, making it a less favorable option for parents seeking permanent migration.
Additional Expenses: Health Insurance, Assurance of Support & More
Beyond the visa application fees, there are several additional costs that applicants must prepare for, which can significantly impact the total financial burden.
1. Assurance of Support (AoS) – Financial Guarantee
Applicants for the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) must provide an Assurance of Support (AoS), a legally binding commitment from an Australian sponsor to cover any government welfare costs for the parent.
- Refundable AoS Bond: AUD 10,000 for a single applicant, AUD 14,000 for couples
- Holding Period: 10 years
The sponsor must meet minimum income requirements to qualify as an assurer.
2. Private Health Insurance
Since Parent Visa applicants are not eligible for Medicare until they obtain PR, they must purchase private health insurance while waiting for approval.
- Estimated Cost: AUD 2,000–$4,500 per year, depending on age and health coverage
3. Police Clearance & Medical Checks
Every Parent Visa applicant must undergo health examinations and character checks before approval.
- Medical Examination Costs: AUD 350–$600 per applicant
- Police Clearance Costs: AUD 42 for AFP clearance, higher for international applicants
These additional expenses should be factored into the overall migration budget.
Are There Payment Plans for Parent Visa Fees?
The high cost of Parent Visas leads many families to wonder whether payment plans are available. Unfortunately, the Department of Home Affairs does not offer installment plans for most Parent Visas.
However, there is one exception: applicants who apply for the Subclass 173 (Temporary) Contributory Parent Visa can pay in two separate installments over time before transitioning to the permanent Subclass 143 visa.
For those struggling with costs, some migration agents and financial institutions offer personal loans or financing options to assist with visa fees and additional expenses. However, applicants should be cautious when taking on debt and consider the long-term repayment impact.
How to Reduce Costs or Find Financial Assistance
Although Parent Visa fees are high, there are several strategies to manage costs and explore financial assistance options.
1. Opting for a Temporary Parent Visa First
Families who cannot afford the Contributory Parent Visa upfront may consider applying for the Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent Visa as a temporary solution before transitioning to a permanent pathway.
2. Seeking Sponsorship Support from Multiple Children
If multiple children in Australia can act as sponsors, they can share financial responsibilities, including the Assurance of Support bond and other living expenses.
3. Exploring Private Financing Options
Some banks and migration agencies offer Parent Visa financing, allowing families to pay visa costs in structured loan repayments.
4. Planning for Future Migration While Parents Are Younger
Applying for Parent Visas earlier rather than later can reduce costs associated with healthcare, insurance, and long-term bridging visas.
Is an Australian Parent Visa the Right Choice for Your Family?
Deciding on the right Parent Visa pathway depends on your family’s financial situation, urgency, and long-term goals. While the Contributory Parent Visa provides the fastest PR option, it comes with a high financial cost, whereas the Non-Contributory Visa is cheaper but takes decades to process.
Families who cannot afford the Subclass 143 visa upfront may consider temporary alternatives like the Subclass 870 Sponsored Visa or explore payment plan strategies. Ultimately, the best decision depends on balancing cost, waiting time, and the need for permanent residency.
By understanding the full cost breakdown, additional expenses, and available financial options, families can make an informed choice that aligns with their migration goals while managing financial risks effectively.
Also Read: Understanding Form 888 for an Australian Partner Visa: A Complete Guide
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