Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173)
The Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa allows parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia temporarily for up to two years. This visa serves as a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 143 visa.
Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa
Overview
The Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa is designed for parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. It grants temporary residency in Australia for up to 2 years, allowing parents to live, work, and study during this period. This visa serves as a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent visa.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 173 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.
- Not have applied for or hold a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (Subclass 870) at the time of application.
- Be outside Australia when the visa is granted.
Common Use Cases
- Family Reunification: Parents wishing to join their children and grandchildren in Australia.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Applicants using the Subclass 173 visa as a stepping stone to the Subclass 143 permanent visa, allowing them to spread the financial burden over time.
- Temporary Stay with Work Rights: Parents seeking to live in Australia temporarily with the ability to work and study.
Application Process
- Sponsorship: The child (sponsor) submits a sponsorship application.
- Visa Application: Submit the visa application along with the required documents and initial visa application charge.
- Health and Character Checks: Undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates.
- Second Visa Application Charge: Pay the second installment before the visa is granted.
- Visa Grant: Await the Department of Home Affairs' decision on the visa application.
Costs Associated
| Fee Type | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Visa Application Charge | $2,850 (main applicant) |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | $1,425 |
| Additional Applicant (<18) | $715 |
| Second Visa Application Charge | $29,130 (per applicant) |
| 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 173 visa can vary based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications. As of early 2025, the estimated processing time is approximately 3 to 4 years. Applicants should be prepared for potential delays and plan accordingly.
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 173 visa grants full work rights.
Q: Will I have access to Medicare?
A: No, Subclass 173 visa holders are not eligible for Medicare. Access to Medicare is available upon obtaining permanent residency through the Subclass 143 visa.
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 Assurance of Support 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 65-year-old retiree from Italy, applies for the Subclass 173 visa to join her daughter in Melbourne. She meets the balance-of-family test and provides the necessary Assurance of Support.
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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 temporary residency with the intention of applying for the Subclass 143 visa later.
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Scenario 3: Ahmed, a 66-year-old from Egypt, considers the Subclass 173 visa but is concerned about the processing time. He explores the temporary Subclass 870 visa as an alternative.
Additional Resources
Need Assistance?
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