*Last updated on: 25 Nov 2024
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Subclass 143 - Contributory Parent Visa

Permanent Parent Visa - Offshore - Contributory

Overview of the Subclass 143 Visa

The Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa enables parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to permanently live in Australia. This visa falls under the family reunion category and allows parents to join their children who are settled in Australia.

The Subclass 143 visa is considered a “contributory” visa due to the significant financial contributions required during the application process. While the costs are higher compared to non-contributory parent visas, such as the Subclass 103, it offers expedited processing times. Upon being granted this visa, parents gain access to Australian permanent residency benefits, including healthcare services, social security entitlements, and the opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship. The visa allows parents to fully integrate into Australian society and experience a high quality of life alongside their family members.

Key Differences Between Subclass 173 and Subclass 143 Visas

Visa Duration:
The Subclass 173 visa provides temporary residency for up to two years in Australia. The Subclass 143 visa offers permanent residency.

Pathway to Permanent Residency:
Holders of the Subclass 173 visa can apply for a Subclass 143 visa without leaving Australia, enabling a smooth progression from temporary to permanent status.

Contributory Costs Structure:
The Subclass 173 visa allows the splitting of contributory charges into two stages, reducing the initial financial burden. Applicants pay a portion when applying for the Subclass 173 visa and the remaining balance when transitioning to the Subclass 143 permanent visa.

Benefits and Rights Access:
While Subclass 173 holders have the right to work, study, and reside in Australia, they do not immediately receive permanent residency benefits such as full access to Australia’s social security and public healthcare systems, which are available to Subclass 143 visa holders.

Application Process:
Although the initial application process is similar for both visas, the Subclass 173 visa involves a second stage for permanent residency when applicants transition to the Subclass 143 visa. This allows for flexibility in managing residency commitments.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 173 Visa Applicants

Age Requirements

There is no specific age restriction for applicants of the Subclass 143 visa.

Visa Status

Holders of the Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa are not eligible to apply.

Location

Applicants must be outside Australia when applying for the visa and when it is granted.

Family Balance Test

Applicants must meet this requirement, which evaluates their ties to Australia:

At least 50% of the applicant's children must reside permanently in Australia as Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens; or
More children must live permanently in Australia than in any other single country.

Stepchildren are considered under this test if they meet certain conditions, ensuring all familial ties are appropriately considered.

No Outstanding Debts

Applicants must have no unresolved debts to the Australian government, or they must have formal arrangements in place for repayment.

Previous Visa History

Applicants should not have a history of visa cancellations or refusals.

Child Welfare Consideration

Applications involving children must align with Australian child welfare laws to ensure their best interests are protected.

Health and Character Requirements

All applicants must meet Australian health and character standards. This includes:

Undergoing medical examinations as directed.
Providing police clearance certificates from every country they have lived in for 12 months or more in the last ten years.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors

Relationship Requirement: The sponsor must be the applicant’s child and must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Age: The sponsor must be 18 years or older. If the applicant’s child is under 18, alternative sponsorship arrangements may apply (outlined in detail below).
Residency Requirement: The sponsor must have lived in Australia for at least two years prior to sponsoring.
Assurance of Support (AoS): Sponsors must provide a financial commitment through an AoS to assure the Australian government that the applicant will not rely on public welfare for 10 years: (1) Demonstrating financial capacity, including meeting minimum income thresholds; and (2) Providing a security bond (AUD $10,000 for one parent, AUD $14,000 for two parents).
Legal Obligations: Sponsors are obligated to meet their responsibilities, including providing financial and settlement support to the parent(s) and ensuring compliance with Australian visa conditions.

Alternative Sponsorship Options for Applicants with Children Under 18

If the primary child sponsor is under 18, an alternative sponsor may be:

The child’s cohabiting partner (spouse or de facto).
A close relative or guardian of the child or the child’s partner.
A community organisation (under specific conditions): (1) Demonstrated relationship with the applicant’s child. (2) Established as a legal entity operating in Australia for at least 12 months. (3) A senior representative must agree to sponsorship. (4) Financial capability to meet sponsorship commitments.

Eligibility for Dependent Children of the Applicant

Age Criteria: (1) Must be under 18 years, or (2) Aged 18 to 23 years and financially dependent on the primary applicant due to full-time study, or (3) No age limit applies if the dependent child has a disability preventing them from working.

Financial Dependence: Evidence of financial support covering essential needs (e.g., living, education).

Health & Character Requirements: Dependents must meet similar health and character standards as the primary applicant.

Application Process

Submit Visa Application

Begin by lodging your Subclass 143 visa application. Ensure all required documents are included, such as identity documents, proof of relationship to your sponsor, and evidence of meeting the Family Balance Test. As this is a contributory visa, you must also be prepared to make a significant financial payment as part of the application fees. It's crucial to provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays.

Assurance of Support (AoS) Lodgement

Once your visa application progresses, your sponsor must lodge an Assurance of Support (AoS). This is a legal commitment to support you financially for up to ten years after your arrival in Australia, ensuring you do not rely on public welfare. The AoS demonstrates that your sponsor can meet specific financial requirements and is willing to assume financial responsibility during your initial settlement.

Submit AoS Payment and Await Visa Grant

Upon approval of the AoS, a second instalment fee is required. This significant payment is a hallmark of the contributory aspect of the visa. Once all conditions and requirements are met, and the payment is confirmed, you will receive the Subclass 143 visa grant, allowing you to live permanently in Australia.

Stay Duration

Permanent residency, allowing indefinite stay with a travel component valid for five years from the date of grant. After this period, residents may need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to maintain travel rights.

Visa Costs and Fees

Visa Application Fees:
Primary Applicant: AUD $4,895
Secondary Applicants (18 and over): AUD $1,650
Dependent Children (under 18): AUD $830

Second Instalment: AUD $43,600 for each parent applicant.

Assurance of Support (AoS) Bond:
AUD $10,000 for one assured parent.
AUD $14,000 for two assured parents (if included in one application).
Refundable after 10 years if conditions met.

For Applicants Transitioning from Contributory Parent Temporary Visa (Subclass 173):
Primary Applicant: AUD $430
Secondary Applicants (18 and over): AUD $220
Dependent Children (under 18): AUD $105
Second Instalment: AUD $19,420 each parent applicant (must be paid before grant).

Note: Fees are subject to updates as per the Department of Home Affairs, they should be verified before application. Additional costs may apply for health checks, police checks, and biometrics.

Processing Times

The processing time for this visa is currently estimated at 14 years.

Note: Processing times vary based on the completeness of documentation, volume of applications and other factors. They are obtained from The Australian Department of Home Affairs website and only serve as guidance.

Key Benefits of the Subclass 143 Visa

Permanent Residency: Gain the right to live permanently in Australia, enjoying a stable and secure future alongside your family.

Work and Study Rights: Enjoy unrestricted work rights and the ability to pursue further studies or vocational training, enhancing your career prospects and integration into Australian society.

Access to Medicare: Benefit from Australia's public healthcare system, Medicare, which provides essential medical services and subsidised treatments.

Pathway to Citizenship: Once you meet the residency and other criteria, you can apply for Australian citizenship, granting you full rights and responsibilities as an Australian citizen.

Multiple Entries: Travel freely to and from Australia with a five-year travel facility, making it easier to visit family or manage commitments abroad without jeopardising your residency status.

No Age Limit: There are no specific age restrictions for applicants, providing flexibility for elderly parents to join their family in Australia.

Social Security and Support: After fulfilling waiting period requirements, you may gain access to certain social security benefits and entitlements as a permanent resident.

Include Eligible Family Members: You can include your partner and dependent children in your visa application, allowing your family to stay together.

Fast-Track Processing Compared to Non-Contributory Parent Visas: While the contributory nature of this visa involves higher costs, it generally results in faster processing times compared to the Subclass 103 non-contributory parent visa, helping you reunite with your loved ones sooner.

Your Questions Answered

What is the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa?

This visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live permanently in Australia, offering work and study rights, access to Medicare, and the ability to apply for citizenship.

What makes the Subclass 143 visa “contributory”?

The visa requires a higher financial contribution compared to non-contributory parent visas. This payment leads to faster processing times and additional benefits, including permanent residency.

Can I include my partner and other family members in the application?

Yes, you can include your partner and dependent children in your application, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

What is the Assurance of Support (AoS)?

The AoS is a legal commitment by your sponsor to support you financially for up to ten years after your arrival in Australia, ensuring you do not rely on government welfare.

What is the Family Balance Test?

This test ensures that at least half of your children live permanently in Australia, or more children live in Australia than in any other country.

What if my child is under 18 and I need a sponsor?

Alternative sponsorship options are available, such as sponsorship by the child’s cohabiting spouse or a close relative.

Can stepchildren be considered as part of my application?

Yes, stepchildren are counted in the Family Balance Test, ensuring all familial relationships are acknowledged.

What happens if my circumstances change after lodging the application?

You must inform the Department of Home Affairs of any significant changes, such as a change in family composition or financial situation.

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