There are a range of temporary and permanent Australian visas options for parents of eligible sponsors.
Eligible sponsors of parent visas applicants must be:
- a child of the parent who is an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen, and ordinarily resides in Australia; or
- in certain exceptional cases where the child is less than 18, another eligible relative or a community organisation.
The core criteria for the grant of a permanent parent visa include: - the parent must meet the balance of family test;
- if applying for an onshore parent visa, be old enough to receive the age pension in Australia;
- meet health and character requirements; and
- arrange for an eligible Australian to lodge a refundable bond.
- There are also parent visas that involve two stages, with a temporary visa being granted first and, provided a further visa application charge is paid within 2 years, the parent may then apply for a permanent visa.
Depending on the visa pathway, processing times and visa application charges can be significant.