Australia is among the top choices for family reunification with various visa alternatives available for Australian citizens' parents and permanent residents' parents. Among them is the Parent Visa Subclass 804, a long-term residence alternative for aging parents who are eager to stay in Australia for good with their children. Commonly known as the Parent Visa 804, this visa allows eligible aged parents to remain in Australia indefinitely, making it a popular choice despite its long waiting period.
In this article, we’ll break down what the visa subclass 804 involves, the eligibility requirements, and what families can expect regarding the aged parent visa 804 processing time.
What is the Parent Visa Subclass 804?
Parent Visa 804 is specifically for aged parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or qualifying New Zealanders. Contrary to temporary or contributory parent visas, parent visa subclass 804 is a permanent visa and, once received, enables parents to reside in Australia permanently. An essential requirement, however, is that the applicant be onshore (in Australia already) when applying and when the visa is issued.
This visa is especially ideal for parents who are already in Australia on a current visa and seek a permanent residence route that does not involve big initial contributions such as other parent visa streams.
Eligibility Criteria for Parent Visa 804
Applicants for the visa subclass 804 must satisfy some important requirements:
- Age Requirement: Candidates should be pension age in Australia. The applicant's age to be required is based on their date of birth.
- Balance of Family Test: Half of the applicant's children should be in Australia as permanent residents or citizens, or more of the applicant's children than in any other individual country.
- Health and Character: The applicants are required to satisfy some health and character requirements as stipulated by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Sponsor: An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen must sponsor a child.
The parent visa subclass 804 does not ask the applicants to contribute a huge amount of money like the Contributory Parent Visa subclasses (143 and 864), but this lower money requirement comes with a high cost in terms of processing time.
Aged Parent Visa 804 Processing Time
One of the most crucial considerations for families exploring this visa option is the aged parent visa 804 processing time. As of recent updates, the processing time for this visa can extend over 30 years. Yes, you read that correctly—three decades or more. The reason for this is simple: demand far exceeds the number of places available each year under the non-contributory parent visa category.
This longer waiting time reduces the attractiveness of the visa for those who seek a speedy outcome but still makes it a good choice for many families because:
- Applicants Can Stay in Australia: After lodging the visa application onshore, the applicant is usually issued with a Bridging Visa A, enabling them to stay legally in Australia until.
- Cost-Effective: Subclass 804 is much cheaper than contributory parent visas, something that can appeal to retirees on a tight budget.
- Family Support: Parents may be able to live near children and grandchildren as they wait for the visa, allowing for reunification over many years.
Note should be taken, however, that waiting time will not improve except if the Australian Government raises the number of non-contributory parent visa places to be included in its annual migration program.
Considerations Prior to Application
Applicants and families should consider the following prior to making an application for the parent visa 804:
- Long-Term Planning: Due to the very long visa processing time, applicants should be ready for a long stretch on a Bridging Visa, which can have restrictions.
- Health Insurance: As Medicare availability is normally limited while holding a Bridging Visa, applicants should arrange for private health insurance.
- Legal and Financial Advice: Meeting with an approved migration agent will assist in making you well aware of your choices as well as obligations.
Is Parent Visa 804 Suitable for You?
Selecting the right visa is complicated. The parent visa subclass 804 is best for families who want an affordable means of having their elderly parents reside in Australia on a permanent basis. It's most appropriate for parents who are in Australia already, either on a valid visa and who are prepared to endure the lengthy processing time for a potential permanent residency in the future.
To all those looking for a speedy option but ready with their purse, contributory parent visas could prove the way to go at much greater expense.
Final Thoughts
The parent visa 804 provides aged parents with the opportunity to reside permanently in Australia with their children, fostering close family ties and support networks. Although the aged parent visa 804 processing time is very long, it is still a sought-after option because it is affordable and allows parents to remain near their loved ones.
Families contemplating this visa need to approach this strategically, carefully considering all options. Seeking the advice of a reputable migration agent can ease the complexities and ensure your loved ones enjoy the most favorable means of reunification in Australia.
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