Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864)
The Subclass 864 visa is a permanent visa that allows aged parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. This visa is designed for parents who meet specific eligibility criteria, including age and family balance requirements.
Subclass 864 Contributory Aged Parent Visa
Overview
The Subclass 864 Contributory Aged Parent visa is a permanent residency visa for aged parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This visa allows parents to live in Australia indefinitely, access Medicare, and eventually apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.
Unlike the temporary Subclass 884 visa, the Subclass 864 grants immediate permanent residency. However, it requires a significant financial contribution to offset the potential costs to the Australian community.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 864 visa, applicants must:
- Be of pensionable age: Generally, this means being 67 years or older, depending on the applicant's date of birth.
- Have a sponsor: Typically, this is the applicant's child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Meet the balance-of-family test: At least half of the applicant's children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens, or more of the applicant's children live in Australia than in any other single country.
- Meet health and character requirements: Applicants must undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates.
- Provide an Assurance of Support (AoS): This is a legal commitment by the sponsor to repay any welfare payments made to the applicant during their first 10 years in Australia.
Common Use Cases
- Reuniting with family: Parents wishing to join their children and grandchildren who are settled in Australia.
- Accessing healthcare: Elderly parents seeking access to Australia's healthcare system, including Medicare.
- Permanent settlement: Parents looking for a permanent solution rather than temporary stays or visitor visas.
Professionals Who Typically Apply
While the Subclass 864 visa is not occupation-based, applicants often include:
- Retired professionals: Individuals who have concluded their careers and wish to spend their retirement years close to family.
- Elderly parents: Those who may require support from their children due to age-related factors.
Application Process
- Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of relationship, identity documents, and health and character assessments.
- Sponsorship: The child (sponsor) submits a sponsorship application.
- Visa Application: Submit the visa application online or by paper, along with the initial visa application charge.
- Health and Character Checks: Undergo medical examinations and provide police certificates.
- Assurance of Support: The sponsor arranges for the AoS through Services Australia.
- Decision: Await the Department of Home Affairs' decision on the visa application.
Costs Associated
| Fee Type | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Visa Application Charge | $4,765 (main applicant) |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | $2,380 |
| Second Visa Application Charge | $43,600 (per applicant) |
| Assurance of Support (AoS) | $10,000 (single) / $14,000 (couple) |
| Medical Examinations | Varies |
| Police Certificates | Varies |
Note: Fees are subject to change and may vary based on individual circumstances.
Processing Times
Processing times for the Subclass 864 visa can be lengthy due to high demand and limited places available each migration program year. As of early 2025, the estimated processing time is approximately 14 years. Applicants should be prepared for extended waiting periods and consider this when planning their migration journey.
Common Hurdles
- High Costs: The substantial financial requirement can be a barrier for many families.
- Lengthy Processing Times: Extended waiting periods can cause uncertainty and stress.
- Balance-of-Family Test: Applicants with children residing in multiple countries may find it challenging to meet this criterion.
- Health Requirements: Age-related health issues may impact the success of the application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I work in Australia on this visa?
A: Yes, the Subclass 864 visa grants full work rights.
Q: Will I have access to Medicare?
A: Yes, as a permanent resident, you will have access to Australia's public healthcare system.
Q: Can I include my partner in the application?
A: Yes, you can include your spouse or de facto partner in your application.
Q: What happens if my sponsor dies before the visa is granted?
A: The Department of Home Affairs may consider alternative sponsorship arrangements or other compassionate grounds.
Q: Is the Assurance of Support refundable?
A: The AoS is held for 10 years and may be refunded if no claims are made against it during that period.
Real-Life Scenarios
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Scenario 1: Maria, a 68-year-old retiree from Italy, applies for the Subclass 864 visa to join her daughter in Melbourne. She meets the balance-of-family test and provides the necessary AoS.
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Scenario 2: John and Linda, both aged 70, apply jointly for the visa to live with their son in Sydney. They face a significant financial outlay but are willing to proceed for permanent residency.
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Scenario 3: Ahmed, a 66-year-old from Egypt, considers the Subclass 864 visa but is concerned about the 14-year processing time. He explores the temporary Subclass 884 visa as an alternative.
Additional Resources
Need Assistance?
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