The Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa enables Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their parents for temporary stays of up to 10 years. This visa is ideal for families who want extended time together without committing to the permanent parent visa queue. Here's everything you need to know about eligibility, costs, and the application process.
What Is the Subclass 870 Visa?
The subclass 870 visa is a temporary visa that allows parents to live in Australia with their children for either:
- 3 years (with option to apply for one further 3-year or 5-year visa, up to a maximum of 10 years)
- 5 years (with option to apply for one further 5-year visa, up to a maximum of 10 years)
This visa does not lead to permanent residency, and holders cannot work in Australia. However, it provides a pathway for extended family reunions without the long processing times associated with permanent parent visas.
Eligibility Requirements
For the Sponsor (Child in Australia)
- Must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must have been lawfully resident in Australia for at least 4 years immediately before lodging the sponsorship.
- Must meet income requirements (currently AUD 83,454.80 per year, or higher if sponsoring multiple parents).
- Must pass character checks and have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government.
- Can only sponsor two parents (or parent and their partner) at a time.
For the Parent (Visa Applicant)
- Must be the biological, adoptive, or step-parent of the sponsor.
- Must be sponsored by an eligible child.
- Must have adequate health insurance for the entire visa period (minimum coverage requirements apply).
- Must meet health and character requirements.
- Cannot have an outstanding "no further stay" condition on a previous visa.
Visa Costs and Fees
The subclass 870 visa has substantial application charges:
- 3-year visa: AUD 5,000 (first application), AUD 10,000 (subsequent application)
- 5-year visa: AUD 10,000 (first application), AUD 20,000 (subsequent application)
- Sponsorship application: AUD 420 per parent
Additional costs include health examinations, police certificates, and mandatory health insurance (approximately AUD 1,500–3,000 per year depending on age and coverage).
Application Process
Step 1: Sponsorship Approval
- The sponsor (child in Australia) lodges a Parent Sponsor application online via ImmiAccount.
- Provide evidence of income (tax returns, payslips), identity documents, and proof of Australian residency.
- Wait for sponsorship approval (processing times vary, typically 3–6 months).
Step 2: Visa Application
- Once sponsorship is approved, the parent applies for the subclass 870 visa online.
- Submit identity documents, relationship evidence (birth certificates, family register), health insurance policy, and health examination results.
- Undergo police checks from all countries where the parent has lived for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
- Pay the visa application charge.
Step 3: Decision and Grant
- Processing times for the visa application are typically 12–18 months.
- If approved, the parent receives a visa grant notice with travel and stay conditions.
- Parents must enter Australia before the visa start date and maintain health insurance throughout their stay.
Key Conditions and Restrictions
- No work rights: Visa holders cannot work in Australia.
- No Medicare: Parents are not eligible for Medicare and must hold private health insurance.
- No permanent pathway: This visa does not lead to permanent residency.
- Limited re-applications: Parents can hold the visa for a maximum of 10 years in total.
- Must leave Australia: When the visa expires, parents must depart unless they hold another valid visa.
Comparing Subclass 870 with Permanent Parent Visas
| Feature | Subclass 870 (Temporary) | Subclass 103/143 (Permanent) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing time | 12–18 months | 12–30+ years (103), 4–6 years (143) |
| Cost | AUD 5,000–20,000 | AUD 50,000+ (contributory) |
| Work rights | No | Yes |
| Medicare | No | Yes |
| Pathway to citizenship | No | Yes |
| Stay duration | Up to 10 years (temporary) | Indefinite |
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early: Sponsorship approval can take several months, so plan ahead.
- Meet income thresholds: Ensure the sponsor's income meets or exceeds the minimum requirement. Include partner's income if applicable.
- Arrange health insurance: Purchase complying health insurance before lodging the visa application.
- Prepare thorough documentation: Provide certified translations for non-English documents and clear evidence of the parent-child relationship.
- Monitor processing times: Check the Department of Home Affairs website for current processing estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can parents work on a subclass 870 visa?
No, this visa does not grant work rights.
Can I apply for permanent residency while on a subclass 870 visa?
Yes, parents can apply for a permanent parent visa while holding a subclass 870 visa, but they must meet all eligibility requirements and pay the relevant fees.
What happens if my parent's health insurance lapses?
Maintaining adequate health insurance is a visa condition. If it lapses, the visa may be cancelled.
Can I sponsor my parents if I'm on a temporary visa?
No, only Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens can sponsor parents under this visa.
The subclass 870 visa offers a practical solution for families seeking extended time together in Australia. With careful planning and thorough preparation, you can bring your parents to Australia to share in your life and create lasting memories.