The Parent Visa Subclass 804 is a significant step for parents wishing to reunite with their children in Australia. This visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. The process can seem daunting, but understanding the application process and timeline can help streamline your journey toward obtaining permanent residency in Australia.
What is the Parent Visa Subclass 804?
The Parent Visa Subclass 804 is a permanent visa option for parents who want to migrate to Australia to live with their children. This visa is a part of the family reunion program, allowing parents to join their children living in Australia. Unlike the Contributory Aged Parent Visa, which requires a higher upfront payment, the Subclass 804 visa has a lower application fee, making it more affordable for families.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the Parent Visa Subclass 804, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be aged 65 years or older or meet the age pension age.
- Sponsorship: You need to be sponsored by an eligible child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Balance of Family Test: You must have at least half of your children living in Australia, or more children living in Australia than in any other country.
This visa is designed for those who can wait for a longer processing period, as there is often a significant wait time before the visa is granted.
The Application Process for Parent Visa Subclass 804
The process for applying for the Parent Visa Subclass 804 involves several steps:
Step 1: Submit the Visa Application
Your first step is to lodge your application through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide personal details, medical records, and documents confirming your relationship to your sponsoring child.
Step 2: Meet Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must undergo a health examination and police checks to meet the character requirements. This ensures that applicants are not a risk to the Australian community.
Step 3: Wait for Visa Processing
The processing time for Parent Visa Subclass 804 is lengthy, often taking several years to be processed. However, the Department of Home Affairs prioritizes applications from those who are sponsored by their children, so being prepared for a long wait is important.
Step 4: Final Decision and Visa Grant
Once your application is processed and approved, you will be granted a permanent Parent Visa. This allows you to live, work, and study in Australia, along with access to certain healthcare benefits.
Timeline and Processing Time
The Parent Visa Subclass 804 typically takes several years to process due to the limited number of visas available each year. The current waiting time for this visa is estimated to be between 3 to 6 years or longer, depending on demand and the number of applications.
If you are looking for a quicker pathway, you may want to consider the Contributory Aged Parent Visa, which has faster processing times but comes with a higher fee.
Why Choose Parent Visa Subclass 804?
For parents who don’t mind the longer waiting period, the Subclass 804 is a great option because it offers permanent residency in Australia at a lower cost compared to the contributory visa. Additionally, it provides parents with the opportunity to live in close proximity to their children and grandchildren.
Conclusion
Applying for the Parent Visa Subclass 804 offers parents a chance to live in Australia permanently with their families. While the process can be long, it is an affordable and rewarding way for parents to join their children in Australia. Be prepared for the waiting time, and ensure that all the necessary documents and requirements are met to make your visa application successful. If you’re looking for more information on the Australia Permanent Residency Visa or other New Zealand Visa Eligibility options, consult with a professional migration agent to guide you through the process.
With the right guidance and patience, the Parent Visa Subclass 804 could be the key to reuniting with your family in Australia.
