Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

If you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident with parents overseas, the Parent Visa (Subclass 103) is the ideal way to reunite with your family. This permanent visa allows parents of settled Australians to live in Australia indefinitely.

At CIA Lawyers, we understand how important family is, and we’re here to make the visa process as smooth and straightforward as possible for you.

Costs & Details of the Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

The Parent Visa (Subclass 103) is a cost-effective way for parents to secure permanent residency in Australia. While it comes with long processing times, the benefits make it a worthwhile choice for families prioritising permanent reunification over immediate timelines. Let’s break it down in simple terms:

Application Fee: The initial application fee for the Parent Visa (Subclass 103) starts at AUD 5,125. This fee covers the basic application costs.
Processing Time: This visa is processed on a queue basis, and the demand is high, meaning it can take several years for an application to be finalised.
Visa Duration: Once granted, the Parent Visa (Subclass 103) provides permanent residency. This means you can live in Australia indefinitely, with the option to apply for citizenship later if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Additional Costs: There may be extra costs for documents like medical reports and police checks. If your financial situation allows, you could explore contributory visa options for faster processing, but these come with significantly higher fees.

Here’s a quick summary of the costs and key details:

Visa Detail	Information
Application Fee	AUD 5,125
Processing Time	Varies; may take several years
Visa Duration	Permanent residency
Additional Costs	Health checks, police certificates, etc.

The Parent Visa (Subclass 103) is ideal for families seeking a long-term solution for reunification without the high upfront costs of contributory visas.

Benefits of the Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

The Parent Visa (Subclass 103) isn’t just a pathway to permanent residency—it brings numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for family reunification. Here’s why you should consider this visa:

Permanent Residency in Australia: As a permanent resident, you’ll have the right to live, work, and study in Australia for as long as you want.
Family Reunification: If you’ve been living away from your children or other family members in Australia, this visa gives you the chance to be reunited and spend more time together.
Pathway to Citizenship: After spending a certain period in Australia, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship, which opens the door to even more benefits, including voting rights and a greater sense of belonging.
Access to Health and Education Services: As a permanent resident, you’ll be eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public health system. This ensures you and your family can access affordable healthcare while living in the country.

The Parent Visa (Subclass 103) is the perfect choice if you want to join your children in Australia and enjoy a secure, permanent future.

Eligibility Criteria for the Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

To bring your family closer to the Parent Visa (Subclass 103), it’s essential to meet a few straightforward requirements designed to ensure the process is smooth and fair. Here’s a look at what’s required:

Sponsorship by a Child: Your sponsor must be your child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Balance-of-Family Test: At least half of your children must live in Australia permanently, or more of your children must live in Australia than in any other country.
Health and Character Requirements: You must meet the standard health and character requirements, which include medical checks and police clearances.
Assurance of Support: Your sponsor or another eligible person must provide a financial commitment to support you during your initial years in Australia.
No Subclass 870 Visa: You cannot apply for this visa if you currently hold or have applied for a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870).

By ticking off these eligibility boxes, you’re one step closer to reuniting with your loved ones in Australia permanently.

How CIA Lawyers Will Help You Get the Parent Visa (Subclass 103)

At CIA Lawyers, we specialise in making the process straightforward, stress-free, and efficient. Here’s how we can assist:

Initial Consultation and Eligibility Check: We’ll start by assessing your eligibility, ensuring you meet all the requirements for the visa. Our team will also break down the details of the balance-of-family test, sponsorship rules, and other key criteria.
Guidance on Documentation: Visa applications can involve a mountain of paperwork, but you won’t have to handle it alone. From compiling police checks and medical records to proving your child’s status in Australia.
Application Lodgement and Monitoring: When all your documents are ready, we’ll lodge your visa application and closely track its progress. You’ll be kept informed at every stage so there are no surprises along the way.
Ongoing Support and Expertise: Got questions or concerns during the process? We’re just a call or email away. Whether you need advice, reassurance, or updates on your application, we’re here to support you until your visa is granted.

With CIA Lawyers, you’ll have an experienced and dedicated team on your side, giving you peace of mind while you work towards reuniting with your family in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best visa for aged parents in Australia?

A: The best visa depends on your priorities. For faster processing, the Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864) is ideal, while Subclass 103 suits those looking for a lower-cost option despite longer wait times.

Q: What is the fastest parent visa?

A: The Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) is the fastest option, with processing times typically shorter than non-contributory parent visas like Subclass 103. However, it comes with a higher application cost.

Q: How long does it take to get a Subclass 103 Parent Visa?

A: The processing time for the Subclass 103 Parent Visa can take several years, often over a decade, due to its lower priority and the high volume of applications.

Q: What is the difference between Subclass Visas 103 and 143?

A: Subclass 103 is a non-contributory visa with lower costs but longer processing times. Subclass 143 is contributory, offering faster processing at a higher fee and a direct pathway to permanent residency.

Q: Can I stay in Australia while waiting for a Subclass 103 Visa?

A: Typically, Subclass 103 applicants need to be outside Australia when applying and waiting for a decision. Bridging visas are not available for this visa.

Our Process

1. Consultation

Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.

2. Application

Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.

3. Approval

We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.