Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (subclass 173)
The Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia temporarily for up to two years. It provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 143 visa. Applicants must have an eligible sponsor, meet the balance of family test, and contribute financially to Australia's healthcare system.
Benefits of the Subclass 173 Visa
Temporary Residency
Reside in Australia temporarily for up to 2 years.
Permanent Residency Pathway
Apply for a permanent residency pathway through Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)
Work and Study Rights
This visa will allow you to work and study in Australia without restrictions.
Healthcare Scheme
Gain access to Australia’s public health care Scheme - Medicare
Subclass 173 Visa
MAIN REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible for the Subclass 173, Temporary Contributory Visa, applicants must meet several essential criteria:
Visa Application History in Australia
You are not eligible to apply if you applied or already hold a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa - subclass 870 visa
Sponsorship
Applicants must be sponsored by their child, who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. The sponsor must be at least 18 years old and must be able to financially support the parent.
Balance-of-Family Test
You are required to meet the balance of family test
At least half of the parent’s children must live in Australia, or;
more of their children must live in Australia than in any other country.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must pass health checks and provide police certificates to meet the character requirements.
Steps to apply for the Subclass 173 Visa
Ensure Eligibility
Verify that you meet the basic requirements, such as having an eligible sponsor, passing the balance-of-family test, and fulfilling health and character requirements.
1
Gather Documents
Collect the necessary documents, including proof of identity, your sponsor’s details, health and police clearances, and evidence of meeting the balance-of-family test.
2
Submit the Application
Submit the visa application online or by paper through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure that all required documents are attached to avoid delays.
3
Health and Character Checks
Undergo medical examinations and submit police clearances from all countries you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the past 10 years.
4
Wait for Processing
After submitting the application, you may be granted a bridging visa to remain in Australia while waiting for the decision.
5
Current Processing Time: Subclass 173 Visa
When it comes to the processing timeline, several factors can impact your application. These include the quality of submitted documents and the volume of applications received by the Department.
| Stream | Processing time frame (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Contributory Aged Parent Visa (SC 173) | 14 years |
Frequently
Asked
Questions
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The balance-of-family test ensures that at least half of your children live in Australia as citizens or permanent residents, or that you have more children living in Australia than in any other single country.
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Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in your Subclass 173 visa application, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
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The Subclass 173 visa is a temporary visa valid for up to two years. However, it provides a pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 143 visa.
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The assurance of support is a financial commitment provided by a sponsor to cover any welfare costs you may incur in Australia. It ensures you will not rely heavily on government benefits.
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No, the Subclass 173 visa must be applied for and granted while you are outside Australia.