How to successfully apply for a Subclass 870 visa – Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa

What is a Subclass 870 visa?

The Subclass 870 visa, also known as the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa, offers a temporary residency option for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.

It allows parents to live in Australia for extended periods, typically up to 3 or 5 years per visa application, without needing to satisfy the usual balance-of-family test required by other parent visas. This visa helps parents to reunite with their families in Australia while awaiting the outcome of their permanent residency applications.

Notably, parents can reapply for this visa a second time to be able to stay in Australia for up to 10 years.

The benefits of a Subclass 870 visa

The Subclass 870 visa, or Sponsored Parent Temporary visa, offers several key benefits:

• Extended Stay: Allows parents to reside in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years per visa application, facilitating longer periods with family.
• No Balance-of-Family Test: Unlike other family visas, it does not require parents to meet the balance-of-family test, simplifying eligibility criteria.
• Multiple Entries: Permits unlimited travel to and from Australia during the visa validity period, ideal for family visits and flexibility.
• Volunteering: While primarily for family reunification and without work rights, incidental volunteering activities are permitted.

These advantages make the Subclass 870 visa an attractive choice for parents seeking extended time with their families in Australia without the usual immigration barriers of a vistor visa.

You may also explore an alternative and more economical option: the Visitor visa (Subclass 600). For further details, please contact VEM.

The requirements of a Sponsored Parent (temporary) visa – Subclass 870

The Subclass 870 visa (Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa) has specific requirements that applicants must meet:

• Sponsorship: An eligible sponsor (typically a child of the parent) must sponsor the visa applicant and provide financial support. The sponsor(s) must have at least $83,454.80 in taxable income.
• Health Insurance: Applicants must maintain adequate subclass 870 health insurance for their stay in Australia.
• Genuine Temporary Stay: Applicants must demonstrate genuine intent for a temporary stay in Australia.
• Health and Character: Applicants must meet health and character criteria.
• Volunteering: While primarily for family reunification and without work rights, incidental volunteering activities are permitted.

For further assistance, please reach out to VEM. Our team of professional consultants is here to assist you in choosing the optimal migration pathway and ensuring thorough preparation for your Australia visa application.

Steps to apply for a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa

To apply for a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (Subclass 870), you will follow these steps:

• Step 1: Check sponsor eligibility: Ensure the sponsor meets the income requirement of at least $83,454.80 in taxable income.
• Step 2: Prepare supporting documents: Gather necessary documents such as proof of identity, health insurance, and evidence of financial capacity.
• Step 3: Submit application: Pay visa application fee and lodge the visa application online through the Australian Government’s immigration portal, attaching all required documents.
• Step 4: Health and character checks: Complete health examinations and provide police clearance certificates if required.
• Step 5. Wait for decision: Await a decision on your visa application. Subclass 870 processing time may vary, so monitor your application status regularly.
• Step 6: Visa grant: If approved, receive your Subclass 870 visa grant notification. Ensure you understand the 870 visa conditions and comply with them during your stay in Australia.
• Step 7: Travel to Australia: Once the visa is granted, plan your travel to Australia within the validity period of the visa.
• Step 8: Arrival in Australia: Upon arrival, adhere to Australian laws and regulations, and enjoy your time with your family as per your visa conditions.

These steps outline the process for applying for a Sponsored Parent Temporary visa, ensuring a smooth and well-prepared application experience.

The cost of a Subclass 870 visa application

The subclass 870 Parent visa cost varies depending on the length of the stay you are applying for. Below are the latest cost updated by the DHA:

Note: The Subclass 870 fees listed above do not include a 1.4% surcharge.

In addition, you need to pay for other fees regarding health examination, biometrics collection and police clearance check.

Processing times of a Sponsored Parent (temporary) visa

Subclass 870 has the shortest processing time than any other Parent visas:

• 50% of applications are processed within 3 months
• 90% of applications are processed within 7 months

Processing times for the Subclass 870 visa can extend beyond expected durations if applications are not properly lodged. To optimize your chances, ensure your application is submitted correctly for a “ready-made decision.” For further guidance, contact VEM for expert assistance.

Contact VEM for further assistance! Our registered migration agent (MARN: 1577877) and member of the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA: 12648) will provide legal advice and expert support to ensure your visa application is meticulously prepared for the best possible outcome.

By: Peter Phong D Cao – Registered migration agent

(MARN: 1577877, MIA: 12648)

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about other Australian visa:

• VEM provides you general information about Australian Family Visas
• 7 ways to sponsor your parents to Australia in 2023
• Subclass 884 visa – VEM provides you detailed information