Parent Visa 2026
Parent visas allow Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their parents to live in Australia. There are several parent visa subclasses with different costs and processing times. The Contributory Parent visa (143/173) is faster but more expensive. The standard Parent visa (103) has lower fees but very long wait times.
Last updated: April 2026 | Written by Kunal Sitlani, MARN 2418523
Who Is This Visa For?
Australian citizens or permanent residents who want to bring their parents to live in Australia permanently. At least half of the sponsor children must live in Australia, or more children live in Australia than any other single country.
2026 Eligibility Requirements
- Child in Australia is citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen
- Balance of family test (at least half of children in Australia)
- Assurance of Support bond
- Meet health and character requirements
- Adequate health insurance
Current Fees and Processing Times
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contributory Parent (143) | $47,755 | First + second instalment |
| Standard Parent (103) | $6,990 | |
| Contributory processing | 2-4 years | |
| Standard processing | 15-30+ years |
How Studynash Helps
We help you understand the different parent visa options and choose the right one for your family. We prepare the Assurance of Support documentation and manage the application process through what can be a very long wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Contributory Parent visa cost?
The total cost is approximately $47,755 including first and second instalments.
How long does the standard Parent visa take?
The standard Parent visa (103) has a wait time of 15 to 30+ years.
What is the balance of family test?
At least half of your children must live in Australia, or more of your children live in Australia than in any other single country.
Can my parents work in Australia?
Yes. The permanent Parent visa includes work rights.
What is the Assurance of Support?
A financial guarantee that your parent will not need government assistance. You must lodge a bond with the government.
Is there a temporary parent visa option?
Yes. The Sponsored Parent (870) visa allows parents to stay for up to 5 years but it is temporary and does not lead to PR.
Can both parents apply together?
Each parent must lodge a separate application, but they can be processed together.
Do my parents need health insurance?
Yes. Adequate health insurance is required, especially during the initial period when Medicare may not be available.
Ready to Apply?
Talk to a MARA-registered agent about your Parent Visa application.
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