Australia is a popular destination for migrants seeking a better quality of life, and the country offers several visa options for parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents. Parent migration Australia enables families to reunite and enjoy the benefits of living together in Australia. This guide covers the various parent migration visas, their eligibility criteria, application processes, and benefits.
Types of Parent Migration Visas
- Parent Visa (Subclass 103):
- Description: This visa allows parents to live in Australia permanently.
- Processing Time: The processing time for this visa can be very long, often taking many years.
- Eligibility: Must have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Must meet the balance-of-family test, where at least half of the applicant’s children live permanently in Australia, or more of their children live in Australia than any other country.
- Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143):
- Description: This visa offers a faster processing time than the Parent Visa (Subclass 103) but comes with a higher application fee.
- Processing Time: Generally faster than the Subclass 103 visa, but can still take several years.
- Eligibility: Similar to the Parent Visa (Subclass 103), with the added requirement of a higher application fee to cover additional government costs.
- Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173):
- Description: This temporary visa allows parents to stay in Australia for up to two years. It is a pathway to the permanent Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143).
- Processing Time: Faster than the permanent parent visas.
- Eligibility: Must have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Must meet the balance-of-family test and pay the contributory fee.
- Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804):
- Description: This visa is for older parents who want to live in Australia permanently.
- Processing Time: Can take many years due to limited placements.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be old enough to receive the Australian aged pension, have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, and meet the balance-of-family test.
- Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864):
- Description: This visa allows aged parents to live in Australia permanently with a faster processing time compared to the Subclass 804 visa.
- Processing Time: Faster than the Subclass 804 visa, but still can take several years.
Eligibility: Must meet the age requirement for an Australian aged pension, have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, and meet the balance-of-family test.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for parent migration Australia, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Relationship to Sponsor: The applicant must be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who has been living in Australia for at least two years before the application.
- Balance-of-Family Test: At least half of the applicant’s children must reside permanently in Australia, or more children must live in Australia than in any other country.
- Assurance of Support: The sponsor must provide an Assurance of Support, which is a legal commitment to repay certain social security payments to the Australian government.
- Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character requirements, including undergoing medical examinations and providing police certificates.
Application Process
- Determine Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the chosen parent visa category.
- Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of relationship, identity documents, health and character certifications, and financial evidence.
- Lodge an Application: Submit your application online or via post, depending on the visa subclass. Pay the required application fees.
- Await Processing: Processing times vary depending on the visa subclass and can range from several months to many years.
- Medical and Character Checks: Complete health examinations and obtain police clearance certificates.
- Decision: Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application and make a decision.
- Visa Grant: If approved, you will be granted the visa and can make arrangements to move to Australia.
Benefits of Parent Migration to Australia
- Family Reunification: Allows parents to reunite with their children and grandchildren in Australia.
- Permanent Residency: Provides a pathway to permanent residency, offering access to healthcare, social security benefits, and the ability to work and study in Australia.
- Community and Support: Parents can become part of a vibrant and diverse Australian community and enjoy the support of their family members.
Conclusion
Parent migration Australia offers a valuable opportunity for families to reunite and build a life together in one of the world’s most welcoming and diverse countries. While the application process can be lengthy and complex, understanding the different visa options and their requirements can help you navigate the process more effectively. By meeting the eligibility criteria and preparing your application carefully, you can take a significant step towards joining your loved ones in Australia.