More and more immigrant families are settling in Australia, and some of them want to be with their parents again. The 870 Sponsored Parent Visa, also known as Parent Visa Subclass 870, was developed by the Australian government to address this need. With this visa, parents of an Australian citizen or resident may reside in Australia both temporarily and permanently. Every facet of the 870 visa for Australia is covered in detail in this guide, including eligibility, processing time, advantages, limitations, and suggestions for sponsors and applicants.

What is the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa?

Parents can stay in Australia for up to 10 years, three or five years at a time, with the Parent Visa Subclass 870.

It is one of Australia’s attempts to promote family reunions without placing the cost on public facilities such as Medicare. Parents under this visa are required to keep their private health insurance and are not allowed to work while in the country.

Major Features of the Parent Visa 870

• Stay Duration: Parents have the option to stay for either 3 years or 5 years per visa grant.
• Multiple Applications: You can apply for a second 870 visa after an absence from Australia for 90 days, but the overall stay should not exceed 10 years
• No Work Rights: The visa is categorically prohibiting any kind of employment.
• No Pathway to Permanent Residency: This visa, unlike most parent visa subclasses, does not pave the way to permanent residence in Australia.
• Private Health Insurance: Compulsory for the whole stay period to prevent any burden on the public healthcare system.

Who Is Eligible to Sponsor a Parent for the 870 Visa?

The sponsor must meet the following criteria and be the applicant’s biological, adopted, or stepchild.

• Must be a citizen of Australia, a permanent resident of Australia, or a citizen of New Zealand who qualifies.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Must have been resident in Australia for at least 4 years.
• Must have at least a taxable income of AUD 83,454.80 annually (can be pooled with a partner or another sponsor).
• Must be character-checked and not owe any debts to the Australian Government.
• Be willing to undertake all sponsorship conditions such as accommodation, financial assistance, and reporting responsibilities.

Eligibility of the Applicant for the Parent Visa Subclass 870

In order to qualify, parents are required:

To be outside Australia when applying, except when invited to apply from within.

• Be sponsored by a recognized child sponsor.
• Be aged 18 or above.
• Comply with health and character criteria.
• Possess sufficient funds and private health cover.
• Have no outstanding public debt in Australia.
• Be capable of providing biometric information (if required).
• Be prepared to accept visa conditions.

870 Parent Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the 870 parent visa depends on the number of applications and quality of the documents submitted.

Current Average Timeframes:

Sponsorship Applications:

• 50% processed in around 2 months.
• 90% processed within 4 months.

Visa Applications:

• 50% processed within 3–4 months.
• 90% processed within 6–8 months.

Processing may take longer where there is incomplete documentation, character or health testing, or when a background check is necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the 870 Visa Australia

Step 1: Sponsorship Approval

Prior to making the visa application, the child sponsor should be approved by the Department of Home Affairs. This includes the provision of identity documents, proof of income, character documents, and a sponsorship responsibilities declaration.

Step 2: Visa Application

After approval of the sponsorship, the parent will have 6 months (60 days if applying from within Australia) to apply for the 870 visa.

Step 3: Provide All Necessary Documents

Ensure all documentation supporting your case is translated and certified if needed. Include:

• Evidence of relationship
• Financial details
• Insurance coverage
• Health and character tests

Step 4: Biometrics and Health Testing

The department can ask you for biometrics or medical tests at this stage.

Step 5: Wait for Outcome

Once submitted, your visa application will be decided. You’ll be informed in writing when it’s decided.

Charges for the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa

Applying for this visa requires sponsorship and visa application fees:

• Sponsorship Fee: AUD 420 (to be paid by the sponsor).
• Visa Fees:
  • 3-Year Visa: AUD 5,895
    • First installment: AUD 1,180
    • Second installment: AUD 4,715
  • 5-Year Visa: AUD 11,785
    • First installment: AUD 1,180
    • Second installment: AUD 10,605

You will need to pay the second installment prior to visa grant. Other costs include police checks, health examinations, and insurance.

Benefits of the 870 Visa Australia

• Family Reunification: Allows for time spent with children and grandchildren.
• No Balance of Family Test: It is simpler to apply even if you have additional children overseas.
• Flexible Entry: You can enter and leave Australia within the period of your visa.
• No Bond Required: In contrast to parent permanent visas, there is no payment of a financial bond.

Limitations and Considerations

Temporary Only: The visa does not result in permanent residence or citizenship.

No Employment: Visa holders are not permitted to engage in any employment, even voluntary work.

Healthcare Costs: In the absence of Medicare, applicants have to fund private health cover.

Cumulative Stay Limit: Once a parent hits the 10-year stay limit, they need to leave Australia and seek another visa if they want to come back.

Differences Between Parent Visa 870 and Other Parent Visas

Real-Life Scenarios

Case 1: Retired Parents Visiting Frequently

John, an Australian permanent resident, sponsors his retired Indian parents for a 5-year Parent Visa Subclass 870. They have long visits with their grandchildren without the need to apply for a tourist visa annually.

Case 2: Visa Refusal Due to Incomplete Documents

Maria’s 870 visa was declined due to not including certified translation of her insurance and financial records. This just goes to show how important it is to send in complete and correct documentation.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start Early: Start the process of sponsorship 6–8 months prior to your intended departure date.
• Engage a Registered Migration Agent: Although not compulsory, professional assistance can reduce chances of refusal.
• Keep Records: Hold copies of all forms and approvals submitted.
• Stay Informed: Rules and charges can be changed; always cross-check on the Department of Home Affairs website.
• Plan for Health Needs: Include health insurance that covers emergency and chronic care.

Final Thoughts

The Parent Visa Subclass 870 provides a realistic and significant means for families to reunite and spend considerable time together in Australia. It is a balance between compassion and control, enabling loved ones to share milestones without burdening the public system.

While it is not an avenue to permanent residency, the 870 Sponsored Parent Visa is an accommodating substitute for prolonged visitor visas and the sluggish permanent parent visas. With careful planning and preparation, the 870 visa can be a rewarding family experience in Australia.

Always check the most recent government information or contact a registered migration specialist prior to application to confirm your application complies with current standards