Aged vs Non-Aged Parent Visas

An “aged parent” is defined under Australian social security age criteria.

If the parent meets the age requirement:

• They may be eligible for onshore aged parent subclasses

• They may be able to remain in Australia during processing (subject to visa status)

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If they do not meet the age threshold:

• Offshore parent visa subclasses may apply
   

Correct classification affects visa options and location requirements.

 

Balance of Family Test

Most parent visa applicants must pass the Balance of Family Test.

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This means:

• At least half of the applicant’s children must live permanently in Australia, or

• More children live permanently in Australia than in any other single country
   

This requirement is strict and is one of the most common eligibility hurdles.

 

Assurance of Support

Contributory parent visas require an Assurance of Support (AoS).

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This involves:

• A financial bond

• A commitment to repay certain social security payments

• An assurer who meets income requirements
   

The AoS is a significant financial consideration and must be carefully assessed.

 

Sponsorship Requirements

To sponsor a parent visa application, the child must:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Be settled in Australia

• Meet sponsorship obligations
   

In some cases, joint sponsorship with a partner may be permitted.

 

Processing Time Overview

Processing times vary significantly depending on the visa category.

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Generally:

• Contributory parent visas process faster than non-contributory visas

• Queue management systems apply to most parent visa categories

• Application completeness affects timelines
   

Applicants should consult the official processing time tool for current estimates.

 

Parent Visa Costs

Costs vary substantially between categories.

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Contributory visas:

• Higher upfront visa application charges

• Assurance of Support bond required
   

Non-contributory visas:

• Lower visa application charges

• Longer processing times
   

Financial planning is essential before lodging a parent visa application.

 

Which Parent Visa Is Appropriate?

The appropriate pathway depends on:

• Whether the parent meets the aged criteria

• Whether the applicant is inside or outside Australia

• Financial capacity

• Willingness to wait in long queues

• Balance of family eligibility
   

Choosing the wrong subclass can result in delays or ineligibility.

 

Common Misunderstandings

Some frequent misconceptions include:

• Assuming all parents automatically qualify

• Underestimating waiting periods

• Overlooking the Balance of Family Test

• Not understanding Assurance of Support obligations
   

Parent visa applications require careful assessment before lodging.