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Parent Visa Australia Processing Times
October 13 2025
Parent Visa Australia Processing Times: What You Need to Know

Applying for a Parent Visa Australia can be a rewarding but time-consuming process. With multiple visa subclasses and varying processing priorities, it’s crucial to understand how long each visa may take and what factors influence the timelines. Whether you are sponsoring your parents or planning to bring them for a temporary stay, having the right information can help you plan better and reduce stress.

Why does a parent visa to Australia take so long?

The visa for parents to Australia typically has long waiting periods due to a mix of factors, including government quotas, high demand, and the complexity of applications. Here’s why processing times stretch into years – sometimes even decades:

1. Annual caps and queues

The Australian Government limits the number of parent visas granted each year. Once this cap is reached, all remaining Australian parent visa applications are placed in a queue. Each application must wait its turn, which extends overall processing times.

2. High application demand

Thousands of families apply each year for a parent visa to Australia, but available places are limited. This imbalance between demand and supply causes long waiting times, especially for non-contributory visa categories.

3. Processing priorities

The Department of Home Affairs prioritises skilled, partner, and child visas before parent visas. Within parent categories, contributory parent visas receive higher priority than non-contributory visas, as they involve a larger financial contribution.

4. Health and character checks

Each Australian parent visa application requires thorough health and character assessments. If supporting documents are incomplete or additional information is needed, processing can be delayed further.

What are the different types of parent visas and their processing times?

Understanding the different subclasses helps families choose the right pathway and estimate how long they might wait. Below are the most common options for a visa for parents to Australia, along with current estimated processing times:

Visa Subclass Type Typical Processing Time*
Subclass 103 (Parent Visa) Permanent, non-contributory 25–30 years
Subclass 804 (Aged Parent Visa) Permanent, non-contributory 25–30 years
Subclass 143 (Contributory Parent Visa) Permanent, contributory 12–15 years
Subclass 173 (Contributory Parent Temporary Visa) Temporary (2 years) 12–15 years (then transition to 143)
Subclass 864 (Contributory Aged Parent Visa) Permanent, contributory 4–6 years
Subclass 884 (Contributory Aged Parent Temporary Visa) Temporary (2 years) 4–6 years
Subclass 870 (Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa) Temporary (3 or 5 years) 3–6 months

*These timeframes are indicative and depend on queue position, documentation quality, and immigration policy updates.

What can affect your parent visa processing time?

Several internal and external factors can influence how long your parent visa for Australia takes to process:

  • Completeness of your application – Missing documents or incorrect forms can lead to long delays.
  • Health and character issues – Extra assessments may be required for certain applicants.
  • Changes in government priorities – Policy or budget changes can alter processing priorities and visa allocations.
  • Timing of your lodgement – Applications submitted earlier in the financial year may have a better position in the queue.
  • Visa subclass choice – Contributory visas are faster but more expensive; non-contributory visas are cheaper but take decades.

Can parents visit Australia while waiting for a parent visa?

Yes. Parents waiting for permanent visa approval can often apply for a parent’s visitor visa Australia or a visitor visa Australia for parents. These temporary visas allow parents to stay with their family in Australia while their main Australian parent visa application is still in process. However, applicants must follow visa conditions carefully – especially regarding duration of stay and travel permissions.

For long-term stays, the Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa is a good option. It allows parents to stay in Australia for up to three or five years at a time without needing to leave the country frequently.

Tips to manage long waiting times

Long queues can be frustrating, but these steps can help you plan better:

  • Apply early: The sooner you apply, the better your place in the queue.
  • Keep documents updated: Update police checks, health assessments, and sponsor details as required.
  • Monitor queue release dates: The Department of Home Affairs publishes updates on queue movement.
  • Consider contributory visas: Faster processing times may justify higher application costs.
  • Seek expert help: A registered migration agent can ensure your documents are accurate and ready for submission.

How Kritin Global helps

At Kritin Global, we understand that reuniting with family in Australia is an emotional and significant decision. Our registered migration agents provide clear, step-by-step guidance throughout your parent visa Australia journey. We assess your eligibility, prepare accurate documentation, and manage the entire process with transparency. 

Whether you’re applying for a parent visa or exploring visitor visa options, our expert team ensures compliance with Department requirements and keeps you informed at every stage. With proven experience and a compassionate approach, Kritin Global makes family reunification simpler, smoother, and stress-free.

Conclusion

Applying for a Parent Visa Australia is a significant commitment, both emotionally and financially. Processing times are lengthy, but careful planning and professional guidance can make a big difference. Always verify subclass requirements, prepare complete documents, and stay updated with immigration changes.

At Kritin Global, we help families make informed decisions and achieve their dream of reuniting in Australia. Our experienced migration agents provide trusted, transparent, and personalised advice to guide you through every step of the journey.

Book your consultation with Kritin Global today and take the first step toward bringing your parents closer to home in Australia.

FAQs-

  1. How long does it take to get a Parent Visa Australia approved?
    Processing for a parent visa in Australia can take 12–30 years, depending on the subclass and queue status.
  2. Can parents stay in Australia while their visa is being processed?
    Yes. They can apply for a parent’s visitor visa Australia or a visitor visa Australia for parents to stay temporarily.
  3. Is the contributory Parent Visa faster to process?
    Yes. A Contributory visa for parents to Australia generally takes around 12–15 years, compared to 30+ years for non-contributory visas.
  4. Can I bring my parents temporarily while waiting for the main visa?
    Yes. You can apply for a visitor visa for parents or a Subclass 870 visa for long-term temporary stay.