Subclass 143 visa – an Australian permanent visa for parents

What is a Contributory Parent visa?

A Contributory Parent visa, or subclass 143, is a pathway for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to obtain permanent residency in Australia. It requires a significant financial contribution to support Australia’s health and welfare system.

There are two main types: Subclass 143 , which grants permanent residency directly, and Subclass 173, a temporary visa leading to Subclass 143. These visas generally have shorter processing times but involve higher application fees compared to non-contributory parent visas.

The Subclass 143 is the most common choice among Parent visas.

The benefits of a Subclass 143

With the Australian 143 visa, the visa holders will be entitled several benefits, which include:

• Permanent residency: Holders can live in Australia indefinitely as permanent residents.
• Work and study: Permission to work and study in Australia.
• Medicare: access to Australia’s healthcare scheme, Medicare.
• Sponsor family: Eligibility to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residency.
• Travel: Multiple entries to and from Australia for up to 5 years from the visa grant date.
• Social security: Potential eligibility for certain social security payments and benefits.
• Integration: Opportunity to integrate into Australian society, including language and cultural support.
• Pathway to citizenship: Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

These benefits make the Subclass 143 visa an attractive option for parents wishing to join their families in Australia on a permanent basis.

The requirements of a Subclass 143 visa

The required documents for a Subclass 143 visa application vary slightly depending on individual circumstances, but generally include:

• Applicant Documents:
  • Identity: Certified copies of passport biodata pages and birth certificate.
  • Relationship: Evidence of relationship to the sponsoring child (e.g., birth certificates).
  • Health: Results of health examinations.
  • Character: Police clearance certificates from all countries resided in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years.
  • Financial: Evidence of financial capacity (e.g., bank statements, employment proof).
  • Balance of Family Test: Documentation proving the number and residency status of children.
• Sponsor Documents:
  • Identity: Certified copies of passport biodata pages.
  • Citizenship/Residency: Evidence of Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or New Zealand citizenship.
  • Financial Support: Subclass 143 visa Assurance of Support (AoS) form and financial evidence (e.g., tax returns, employment proof).
  • Relationship: Evidence of relationship to the applicant (e.g., birth certificate).

These documents ensure that both the applicant and sponsor meet the eligibility criteria for the Subclass 143 visa and provide necessary information to support the application process.

Get in touch with VEM for expert guidance on selecting the right migration pathway and preparing your visa application with confidence. Our consultants are here to assist you every step of the way.

Steps to apply for a Contributory Parent visa 143

When applying for a Contributory Parent visa onshore (Subclass 143), the applicants will go through the following steps:

• Step 1: Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the basic requirements, including the Balance of Family Test.
• Step 2: Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents such as identity proof, relationship evidence.
• Step 3: Lodge Visa Application: Complete and submit your visa application online or by mail, including payment of the application fee.
• Step 4: Processing: Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application. They may request additional information or documents during this time.
• Step 5: Decision: Receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you will receive notification and information about your visa grant.
• Step 6: Initial Entry: Make your initial entry into Australia before the specified date to activate your visa.
• Step 7: Comply with Conditions: Adhere to all visa conditions, including residency requirements and obligations.

These steps outline the process for applying for a Contributory Parent visa (Subclass 143). It’s crucial to follow each step carefully and provide accurate information to ensure a successful.

While you have the option to apply for the visa independently, it is highly recommended to utilize visa services offered by a registered migration agent. This ensures a smoother process and minimizes the risk of wasted time and effort.

The cost of a Subclass 143 visa application

According to the new Migration strategy 2024 – 2025, the contributory Parent visa cost has increased from July 1, 2024. Below are the visa 143 fee for each applicant:

Note: The Subclass 143 fees listed above do not include a 1.4% surcharge.

The Subclass 143 cost tends to increase every financial year. Contact VEM to get the latest cost.

Subclass 143 visa processing time

The Contributory parent visa processing time is currently not officially disclosed by the Department of Home Affairs. However, delays may occur if your family’s visa application contains:

• Inaccurate or unclear documentation.
• Poorly translated documents.
• Misunderstandings of Australian immigration law requirements.
• To avoid these issues and potential delays, consider utilizing the services of a registered migration agent.

Contact VEM for further assistance!  Our registered migration agent (MARN: 1577877), a member of  Migration Institute of Australia (MIA: 12648) will  legally advise and help your visa application well-prepared for the best possible outcome.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about other Australian visa:

• 7 ways to sponsor your parents to Australia in 2023
• Subclass 173 visa – your parents’ tickets to Australia via sponsorship
• Subclass 870 – How to successfully receive a Sponsored parent visa (temporary)