Home / Visas / Parent visas (103, 143, 173, 804, 864, 870, 884)Subclasses 103, 143, 173, 804, 864, 870 and 884

Parent visas (103, 143, 173, 804, 864, 870, 884)

Parent visas let your parents join you in Australia. The options differ a lot in cost and waiting time, so the right choice depends on your family situation and budget. This guide compares the main options.

Reviewed by Arun Padmani, MARN 2418630 · Government charges checked November 2026

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The main options

Parent (103, 804)

Non-contributory visas with a lower government charge but very long waiting times. Subclass 103 is for parents outside Australia. Subclass 804 is the aged parent visa for parents already in Australia.

Contributory Parent (143, 173, 864, 884)

Contributory visas have a much higher total cost but a shorter wait. Subclass 143 is permanent and 173 is temporary, both for parents outside Australia. Subclass 864 is permanent and 884 is temporary, both for aged parents in Australia.

What the Department looks at

The balance of family test: at least half of your parents' children live permanently in Australia, or more of them live in Australia than in any other country.
Your sponsor, usually a child, is an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, and meets the sponsor requirements.
An assurance of support, which is a financial commitment from an assurer, usually for a set period.
Health and character requirements for your parents.

Government visa application charge

Visa	Charge (AUD)
Parent (103), main applicant	$6,600
Aged Parent (804), main applicant	$6,600
Contributory Parent (143), first instalment*	$4,245
Contributory Parent (Temporary) (173), first instalment*	$4,245
Contributory Aged Parent (864), first instalment*	$6,300
Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) (884), first instalment*	$6,300
Sponsored Parent (Temporary) (870), 3 years	$6,370
Sponsored Parent (Temporary) (870), 5 years	$12,440

* Contributory parent visas have a second instalment payable later. We give you the current second instalment amount at your consultation, and you should also check the Home Affairs website.

Charges from 1 July 2026, taken from the Home Affairs fee chart supplied to us. Other costs such as health checks, police certificates and biometrics may apply. Confirm the current charge on the Home Affairs website before you lodge. Our professional fee is quoted separately in writing.

Documents checklist

Identity documents and passports for your parents and your sponsor

Evidence of all children and where they live, for the balance of family test

Sponsor's status in Australia and income evidence

Assurance of support documents

Marriage certificate and relationship evidence between your parents

Police certificates and health examinations, when requested

Common questions

Why are the waiting times so different?

The government sets a limited number of places each year. Non-contributory visas have very long queues. Contributory visas cost more but move faster.

Can my parents visit while they wait?

Often yes, on a visitor visa or the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa. We explain the rules for your parents.

Does my parents' health matter?

Yes. Health requirements are a key part of the application. We discuss any health issues early, so there are no surprises.

Choose the right pathway

We compare cost, waiting time and eligibility with you, then give you a written plan.

Book a consultationArun Padmani, MARN 2418630

All government fees

Visa and citizenship charges from 1 July 2026.

See the fee table →