Easy Guide to Applying for Parent Visa Subclass 870

To have your parents in Australia for an extended length of time is among the ambitions for most immigrants. With Parent Visa Subclass 870, the ambition never comes any simpler to achieve. The temporary visa allows eligible Australian citizens' parents or permanent residents to stay in Australia for either 3 years or 5 years without necessarily having to leave the country.

If you're considering applying imminently or just browsing your options, this guide breaks down the Parent Visa Subclass 870 from top to bottom, from who's eligible to what you'll need to supply and tips on staying on track.

What is the Parent Visa Subclass 870?

The Subclass 870 Temporary Sponsored Parent Visa is intended for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to reside in Australia for more time than the normal visitor visa would permit.

The visa is a departure from other parent visa options, which might take years to be processed. This visa is a faster means of uniting families though it also has its own stipulations.

Important Features of the 870 Visa

• Allows stay for a maximum of 3 or 5 years at one time.
• Can be extended to a maximum of 10 years.
• Must be sponsored by an approved child who is living in Australia.
• No right to work is granted.
• Must be applied for outside Australia unless you are approved.

Handy Tip: You can't apply for a permanent parent visa when you're on a Subclass 870, so this visa is perfect for families seeking a long-term but not permanent arrangement.

Who Can Apply?

The sponsor (child) and parent (applicant) must both satisfy some requirements in order to be eligible for the Parent Visa Subclass 870.

Sponsor Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen.
• Have lived in Australia for at least 4 years.
• Meet the minimum household income threshold (usually about $83,000/annum).
• Not have any outstanding debts to the Australian government.
• Must be approved as a sponsor before the parent application is made.

Applicant (Parent) Requirements:

• Must be overseas when lodging the application.
• Have a valid passport.
• Need to provide evidence of actual relationship with the sponsor.
• Pass health and character requirements.
• No need to be in debt to the Australian government.

Application process for Parent Visa Subclass 870

The application process is done in two stages:

1. Sponsorship Approval:

Your sponsor (or eligible child) will have to apply and be approved as a temporary parent sponsor. This would involve showing financial security and good standing.

2. Visa Application:

Once the sponsorship is approved, you may lodge the visa application within 6 months of approval.

Helpful Tip: Have all necessary documents properly certified and lodged on the initial application. Mistakes and omissions can result in delay or refusal.

What Documents Are Required?

Here is a general list of documents usually required:

• Valid passport
• Proof of identity (birth certificate, national ID)
• Proof of connection with the sponsor (e.g., birth certificate)
• Health and character checks (including police clearance)
• Sponsor’s income documents (tax returns, payslips)
• Assurance that you’ll have private health insurance for your stay

Tips: Health insurance is required. Shop around at an early stage for the best Australian provider.

Parent Visa Subclass 870 Processing Time

Processing for the 870 visa varies based on demand and the merit of your application.

As of recent statistics:

• Applications are usually processed in 4 to 6 months
• Complex ones are longer, especially when more documentation is required

Tips: We advise lodging a "decision-ready" application—i.e., all documents attached and up-to-date—to facilitate faster processing. 

Cost and Time

The 870 visa is not cheap, but faster than permanent parent visas. 

• 3-year visa: AUD $5,735 
• 5-year visa: AUD $11,470

You can apply again for another 870 visa later on, but you cannot stay in Australia for more than 10 years in total on this kind of visa.

Can You Extend or Reapply?

Yes but there are limits:

• You must leave Australia before you can apply for a second 870 visa.
• You can accumulate a maximum of 10 years on 870 visas in total, but are not permitted to stay continuously beyond the life of the visa.

Final Thoughts & Practical Tips

The Parent Visa Subclass 870 is an excellent option for families who don't want to wait or pay more for permanent visas. But be warned, attention to detail is crucial.

Top Tips:

• Ensure your sponsor is approved in advance—this can take its time.
• Ensure a complete application with no gaps.
• Utilize a registered migration agent if you are unsure of eligibility or documentation.
• Don't overlook health insurance—this is required and verified at application stage.

Conclusion

The Parent Visa Subclass 870 bridges the gap between short visits and long waits. With proper preparation, it can offer a practical solution for parents and children separated by distance. If you’re considering this path, start gathering your documents now and ensure your sponsor is eligible—small steps today can lead to family time tomorrow.