Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)
The Subclass 143 Contributory Parent visa offers permanent residency to parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa allows parents to live in Australia indefinitely, with access to work rights, Medicare, and a pathway to citizenship. While it involves significant financial costs, it provides a faster route to permanent residency compared to non-contributory parent visas.
Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa
Overview
The Subclass 143 Contributory Parent visa is a permanent residency visa for parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. It allows parents to live in Australia indefinitely, access Medicare, and eventually apply for Australian citizenship if eligible. This visa is designed for parents who are willing to make a significant financial contribution to offset the potential costs to the Australian community.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 143 visa, applicants must:
- Be sponsored by an eligible child who is a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Meet the balance-of-family test, which requires that at least half of the applicant's children live permanently in Australia, or more of the applicant's children live in Australia than in any other single country.
- Meet health and character requirements, including medical examinations and police clearances.
- Provide an Assurance of Support (AoS), which is a legal commitment by the sponsor to repay any welfare payments made to the applicant during their first 10 years in Australia.
- Not have applied for or hold a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (Subclass 870) at the time of application.
Common Use Cases
- Family Reunification: Parents wishing to join their children and grandchildren who are settled in Australia.
- Access to Healthcare: Elderly parents seeking access to Australia's healthcare system, including Medicare.
- Permanent Settlement: Parents looking for a permanent solution rather than temporary stays or visitor visas.
Application Process
- Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of relationship, identity documents, and health and character assessments.
- Sponsorship: The child (sponsor) submits a sponsorship application.
- Visa Application: Submit the visa application online or by paper, along with the initial visa application charge.
- Health and Character Checks: Undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates.
- Assurance of Support: The sponsor arranges for the AoS through Services Australia.
- Second Visa Application Charge: Pay the second installment before the visa is granted.
- Decision: Await the Department of Home Affairs' decision on the visa application.
Costs Associated
| Fee Type | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Visa Application Charge | $4,765 (main applicant) |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | $2,380 |
| Additional Applicant (<18) | $1,195 |
| Second Visa Application Charge | $43,600 (per applicant) |
| Assurance of Support (AoS) | $10,000 (single) / $14,000 (couple) |
| Medical Examinations | Varies |
| Police Certificates | Varies |
Note: Fees are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances.
Processing Times
Processing times for the Subclass 143 visa can be lengthy due to high demand and limited places available each migration program year. As of early 2025, the estimated processing time is approximately 14 years. Applicants should be prepared for extended waiting periods and consider this when planning their migration journey.
Common Hurdles
- High Costs: The substantial financial requirement can be a barrier for many families.
- Lengthy Processing Times: Extended waiting periods can cause uncertainty and stress.
- Balance-of-Family Test: Applicants with children residing in multiple countries may find it challenging to meet this criterion.
- Health Requirements: Age-related health issues may impact the success of the application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I work in Australia on this visa?
A: Yes, the Subclass 143 visa grants full work rights.
Q: Will I have access to Medicare?
A: Yes, as a permanent resident, you will have access to Australia's public healthcare system.
Q: Can I include my partner in the application?
A: Yes, you can include your spouse or de facto partner in your application.
Q: What happens if my sponsor dies before the visa is granted?
A: The Department of Home Affairs may consider alternative sponsorship arrangements or other compassionate grounds.
Q: Is the Assurance of Support refundable?
A: The AoS is held for 10 years and may be refunded if no claims are made against it during that period.
Real-Life Scenarios
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Scenario 1: Maria, a 68-year-old retiree from Italy, applies for the Subclass 143 visa to join her daughter in Melbourne. She meets the balance-of-family test and provides the necessary AoS.
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Scenario 2: John and Linda, both aged 70, apply jointly for the visa to live with their son in Sydney. They face a significant financial outlay but are willing to proceed for permanent residency.
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Scenario 3: Ahmed, a 66-year-old from Egypt, considers the Subclass 143 visa but is concerned about the 14-year processing time. He explores the temporary Subclass 173 visa as an alternative.
Additional Resources
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