Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870: Cost, Processing Time, and Conditions

The Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870 is a temporary visa designed to allow parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to live in Australia for extended periods without permanently migrating. With this visa, families can reunite more easily, providing an ideal solution for parents who want to stay close to their children and grandchildren in Australia. Here, we’ll break down the cost, processing time, and conditions attached to the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa.

Cost of the Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870

The Subclass 870 visa application comes with a specific fee structure depending on the length of stay:

Three-Year Visa: The cost for a three-year visa option is around AUD $5,000.
Five-Year Visa: For a five-year stay, the application fee is approximately AUD $10,000.

These fees apply to the visa application itself and do not cover additional costs such as medical exams, police checks, or document translations, which may also be required during the process. Keep in mind that visa fees are subject to change, so it’s essential to verify current fees before applying.

Processing Time for the Sponsored Parent Visa 870

The Temporary Parent Visa 870 processing times vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation:

Average Processing Time: Typically, applications for the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa take between four and six months. However, complex cases may experience longer wait times.
Priority Processing: There is currently no priority processing option available for the Subclass 870, so applicants are encouraged to submit all required documents accurately to avoid delays.

Conditions and Eligibility Requirements for the Sponsored Parent Visa 870

The Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870 has specific eligibility conditions and requirements:

Approved Sponsor: A fundamental requirement for this visa is sponsorship by an eligible Australian child. The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, aged 18 or over, and financially capable of supporting the parent during their stay.
Sponsorship Approval: Before a parent can apply for the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa, the child must apply for and be granted sponsorship approval by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
No Work Rights: Parents holding the Sponsored Parent Visa 870 are not allowed to work while in Australia. The visa is purely for family reunification and does not permit any form of employment.
Health and Character Requirements: All applicants must meet the health and character requirements outlined by Australian immigration authorities. This often includes medical exams and police checks.
No Balance of Family Test: Unlike other parent visas, this visa does not require the balance of family test, making it easier for parents with only one child in Australia to apply.
Stay Period: The Temporary Parent Visa 870 allows a maximum continuous stay of three or five years, depending on the selected visa period. Additionally, parents can renew their visa up to a total maximum stay of ten years, but no path to permanent residency is available through this visa.

Applying for the Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870

The application process involves two main steps:

Sponsorship Application: The Australian child sponsor must submit a sponsorship application, which must be approved before the parent can apply for the visa.
Visa Application: Once sponsorship is approved, the parent can submit their visa application online, including relevant documents and supporting evidence, such as identity documents, proof of sponsorship, and health records.

Final Thoughts

The Sponsored Parent Visa Subclass 870 provides a valuable opportunity for parents to enjoy extended stays in Australia with their family. While it comes with specific requirements, it’s a flexible solution for family reunification without a commitment to permanent residency.

If you’re considering applying for the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa, Lex Move can guide you through the entire process, ensuring you meet all criteria and submit a successful application. For questions about eligibility, costs, or processing, Lex Move is here to help you and your family make the most of this opportunity.