Do you know there are different types of parent visas available, each with its own timeframe and requirements? These visas provide an opportunity for you to bring your parents to Australia through family sponsorship. There are six scenarios to consider for parent visas, allowing either one or both of your parents to join you in Australia.
The main objective of a parent visa is to allow the migration of parents who are Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa category grants permanent residency, allowing parents to settle in Australia permanently.
What are the Australian Parent Category Visas?
If you fulfil the following conditions, you might qualify to apply for a parent visa:
- Your child must be an Australian permanent resident, Australian citizen, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Your child should have been residing legally in Australia for the last 2 years prior to the submission of your visa application.
- You should have a sponsor (usually your child).
- You must meet the health and character criteria.
How long you can stay on a Parent Category Visa?
Do you want to know how long you can stay in Australia on a parent category visa? Well, it actually depends on the specific subclass of the parent visa you apply for. Let us break it down for you:
- The 870 visa does not require you to meet the balance of family test, which means you can be a temporary resident in Australia for a maximum of 10 years.
- Alternatively, if you meet the requirements, a parent category visa can even grant you Australian permanent residency.
Remember, the duration of your stay will vary based on the visa subclass you choose. So make sure to explore your options and find the perfect fit for your parent’s visa.
What are the Requirements for a Parent Visa?
The Parent Visa is a two-step process that involves applying for a temporary visa first, followed by a permanent visa. The temporary visa allows parents to live in Australia for up to two years, while the permanent visa grants them the right to stay indefinitely.
Requirements for a Temporary Parent Visa
To be eligible for a temporary Parent Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Sponsorship: You must have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Balance of Family Test: You should have at least half of your children living in Australia or possess more children residing in Australia than in any other single country.
- Health and Character Checks: You and all family members included in the visa application must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian Government.
- Financial Support: You need to demonstrate that your child is willing and capable of providing adequate financial support for you during your stay in Australia.
Requirements for a Permanent Parent Visa
To transition from a temporary Parent Visa to a permanent one, you must meet the following additional requirements:
- Valid Temporary Visa: You must hold a valid temporary Parent Visa at the time of application for permanent residency.
- Assurance of Support: You need to obtain an Assurance of Support from your sponsor, which ensures that you will not have to rely on government assistance during your stay in Australia.
- Health and Character Checks: Similar to the temporary visa requirements, you and your family members must meet the health and character criteria.
- Residence Requirement: You must have lived in Australia for at least two years immediately before applying for permanent residency.
Applying for a Parent Visa
To apply for a Parent Visa, you need to submit the relevant forms and supporting documents to the Department of Home Affairs. It is important to provide accurate and detailed information to ensure a smooth processing of your application.
It is worth mentioning that the Parent Visa application process can be complex and time-consuming. Engaging the services of a registered migration agent can help go through the requirements and improve your chances of a successful application.
Conclusion
If you wish to join your children in Australia, the Parent Visa offers a pathway for doing so. By meeting the requirements for a temporary visa and subsequently transitioning to permanent residency, you can establish a new life in this beautiful country. Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria, follow the application process diligently, and seek professional assistance if needed. For further information, reach us at Asia Pacific Group!
