Parent Visa Australia (FAQs)

Yes, your parents can apply for a Parent Visa while in Australia on a visitor visa. This is possible if they do not have a “No Further Stay” condition (8503) or if they successfully get it waived. Eligible options include the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 864) or the Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 804). Your parents must also pass the Balance of Family Test and meet all other criteria to apply onshore.

No, once a Parent Visa application has been submitted, you cannot switch between the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 864) and the Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 804). Each visa subclass has its own fee structure, processing time, and eligibility requirements. If you wish to change subclasses, you would generally need to withdraw your application and lodge a new one.

Yes, most Parent Visa applications can be lodged online through ImmiAccount. This includes both offshore and onshore visas such as Subclass 143, 173, 804, and 864. Applying online is the preferred method and allows you to upload documents, receive updates, and manage your application digitally.

If your parent applies for an onshore Contributory (Subclass 864) or Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 804), they will typically be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA). This bridging visa becomes active after their current visa expires and allows them to stay lawfully in Australia while the parent visa is processed. However, Bridging Visa A does not include Medicare or Centrelink benefits unless certain conditions are met for contributory applicants.

No, if you have a Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa, you cannot apply for a permanent Parent Visa. This includes Subclass 864 or Subclass 804 while you are in Australia. To apply for these permanent visas, you need to leave Australia. You must apply from outside the country after checking that you meet the eligibility criteria.

Yes, Australian permanent residents can sponsor their parents for many parent visas. This includes Subclass 143, 864, and 804. You must also meet extra sponsorship requirements. This includes being settled in Australia and providing an Assurance of Support (AoS) for some visas.

Bridging Visa conditions vary. In most cases:

- A Bridging Visa A (BVA) given after applying for a parent visa does not allow work. You must make a separate application for work rights.
- Study is usually permitted, but access to government assistance (like HELP loans) is not available.

You can request work rights if your parents face financial hardship.

In most cases:

- Subclass 143/864 applicants may be eligible for Medicare while on a Bridging Visa A, if they’ve applied onshore.
- Subclass 804 applicants usually do not get Medicare benefits until their visa is granted.

Eligibility depends on visa type, bridging visa conditions, and any reciprocal health agreements.

No, you cannot sponsor your parents for a Parent Visa if you are on a temporary visa (such as a student or temporary work visa). To sponsor a parent, you must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia.