Parent Visas
Subclass 103 & 143
The Parent visas allow parents of Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently.
They are for parents who are not eligible for the Aged Parent pathway, or who prefer to apply offshore. There are two main pathways:
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Subclass 103 – Parent Visa (non-contributory): Lower application charges, but very long waiting times (can exceed 30 years).
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Subclass 143 – Contributory Parent Visa: Much higher application charges, but significantly faster processing (around 6–12 years depending on demand).
You may be eligible if you meet all of these:
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You are the parent of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who has lived in Australia lawfully for at least 2 years.
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You meet the Balance of Family Test.
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You meet health and character requirements.
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You have an Assurance of Support (AoS) provided by your sponsor (usually your child).
Processing Times
Subclass 103
Estimated 30+ years, due to limited places and high demand
Subclass 143
Estimated 6–12 years, depending on the migration program and queue position.
Costs & Fees
Key Benefits
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Both visas provide permanent residency, access to Medicare, work rights, and a pathway to citizenship (if eligible).
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Subclass 103 offers a low-cost option, suitable for applicants willing to wait in the queue.
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Subclass 143 offers a faster permanent residence pathway for those who can afford the contributory charge.
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Once granted, parents can live in Australia indefinitely and enjoy the same benefits as other permanent residents.
Process
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Check eligibility and Balance of Family Test
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Prepare documents and Assurance of Support
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Lodge Subclass 103 or 143 application
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Health and character checks
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Application placed in queue (103) or contributory stream (143)
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Pay second instalment (143 only)
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Visa processed and permanent residency granted
Common Scenarios & Q&A
01. Can I apply onshore?
Yes. You can be in or outside Australia when you apply for the visa.
02. What is the Balance of Family Test?
To qualify, you must have:
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At least half of your children living permanently in Australia, or
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More children living permanently in Australia than in any other single country.
03. How long will it take to be processed?
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Subclass 103: More than 30 years due to limited places.
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Subclass 143: Around 6–12 years, but subject to changes in migration program planning levels.
04. Do I need to pay the contributory second instalment?
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Subclass 103: No second instalment required.
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Subclass 143: Yes, this is the main cost difference but provides a faster outcome.
05. Can I switch from 103 to 143?
Yes. If you are waiting in the Subclass 103 queue, you can later apply for Subclass 143 to move into the contributory pathway and reduce waiting time. Your queue date may be retained.
