Bringing Parents to Australia: A Clear Guide to Parent Visa Subclass 870

Family is everything — and for many Australian citizens and permanent residents, the desire to bring parents closer is more than just emotional; it’s a practical need. That’s where the Parent Visa Subclass 870 comes in. Designed to let parents live temporarily in Australia, this visa offers a flexible option without the long wait times and hefty financial commitments of permanent parent visas.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this visa, from eligibility criteria to application tips. Whether you’re looking to sponsor your mum and dad or you’re a parent dreaming of spending more time with your children and grandchildren in Australia, this guide is for you.

What Is Parent Visa Subclass 870?

The Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa allows the parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years per visa, with a total maximum stay of 10 years.

Unlike permanent parent visas, subclass 870 does not require a Balance of Family test and doesn’t provide a pathway to permanent residency. It’s ideal for families who want to be reunited without waiting many years or making a huge financial investment upfront.

Who Can Apply for the 870 Visa?

To apply for a Parent Visa Subclass 870, you’ll need two key people involved:

1. The Sponsor

The sponsor must be:

• An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Aged at least 18 years

• The biological, adoptive, or step-child of the visa applicant

• Able to pass the income threshold and character checks

2. The Applicant (Parent)

The visa applicant must:

• Be the biological, adoptive, or step-parent of the sponsor

• Be outside Australia when applying for the visa (for most cases)

• Have approved sponsorship before applying

• Meet health and character requirements

• Have adequate health insurance for the duration of stay

How Long Can Parents Stay on a Subclass 870 Visa?

You can choose between a 3-year or a 5-year visa, and the cost varies accordingly:

• 3-year visa: Around AUD 5,735

• 5-year visa: Around AUD 11,470

Once granted, parents can stay in Australia continuously for the visa’s duration. However, they cannot work while in Australia on this visa.

If you want your parents to stay longer, you can apply for another 870 visa, but the total combined stay must not exceed 10 years.

Key Benefits of Parent Visa Subclass 870

• No Balance of Family Test: You don’t need to prove that most of your children live in Australia.

• Quick processing: Compared to permanent visas, the subclass 870 is typically faster.

• Multiple entries allowed: Parents can travel in and out of Australia during the visa validity period.

• Up to 10 years stay: A significant amount of time to spend with family.

Sponsorship Process

Before applying for the visa, the child (sponsor) must be approved as a sponsor by the Department of Home Affairs. This involves:

• Submitting sponsorship documents

• Passing a financial assessment

• Passing a police clearance and character check

The sponsorship must be approved before the parent submits their visa application. Once approved, it remains valid for six months.

Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step overview:

1. Get sponsorship approved (submit online application with required documents).

2. Prepare visa documents for the parent (passport, health insurance, proof of relationship, police checks, etc.).

3. Lodge the 870 visa application online.

4. Wait for the outcome – processing time varies but is often within 4 to 6 months.

Important Conditions and Restrictions

• The parent cannot work while on a subclass 870 visa.

• The visa does not lead to permanent residency.

• Health insurance must be maintained throughout the stay.

• You must leave Australia before the total 10-year limit is reached (or apply for a different visa if eligible).

Is the Subclass 870 Visa Right for You?

This visa is perfect for families who:

• Want to spend extended time together

• Cannot wait for long-term parent visa processing

• Want to avoid the high Assurance of Support (AoS) requirements of permanent parent visas

It provides a middle ground — letting parents live in Australia with their families while avoiding the complexities and delays of permanent migration pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I switch from a subclass 870 to a permanent parent visa?
No. Subclass 870 is a temporary visa and does not offer a pathway to permanent residency.

Q: Can parents work while on this visa?
No, work rights are not included. Parents must rely on their own savings or family support.

Q: Can I sponsor both my parents at the same time?
Yes, if you meet the sponsorship criteria and income requirements, you can sponsor both parents.

Final Thoughts

The Parent Visa Subclass 870 is a practical solution for families seeking quality time together in Australia. With flexible durations and a less burdensome application process than permanent visas, it’s a great way to stay connected with your parents while still managing financial and immigration commitments.

Whether you’re planning for a few years or the full decade, this visa offers families a meaningful way to create memories  right here in Australia.