Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143): an overview of the application process

The Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143) is a permanent residence visa for parents of a settled Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. If granted, it allows the parent to live, work and study in Australia permanently, access Medicare, and, if the usual eligibility requirements are met, apply for Australian citizenship.

The application process usually begins with the parent lodging a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, together with the first instalment of the visa application charge. The application must be made on the correct form and include identity, relationship and other supporting documents.

The sponsoring child must be a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen. The parent must satisfy public interest criteria, including health examinations and character checks, and must meet the balance of family test. Under this test, at least half of the applicant’s children must live permanently in Australia, or more children must live permanently in Australia than in any other single country.

An Assurance of Support is generally required. This is a legal undertaking by an Australian resident, citizen or organisation to repay certain social security payments that the visa holder might receive during a set period. The assurer must meet income requirements and may be required to provide a bond.

A second, larger instalment of the visa application charge is payable before the visa is granted. The amount changes over time and can be checked on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Contributory Parent visa applications are processed subject to planning levels and can take a number of years. If the applicant is in Australia when they apply, they may be eligible for a bridging visa that allows them to remain in Australia until a decision is made, although eligibility depends on the circumstances at the time of application.

If the visa is granted, the holder can remain in Australia permanently and is subject to the Assurance of Support arrangement. The holder may also be eligible for Medicare, social security after relevant waiting periods, and Australian citizenship if they meet the requirements.

Because the requirements are detailed and individual circumstances vary, readers may wish to check the Department of Home Affairs website or speak with a registered migration agent or lawyer for advice about their situation.