Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864)

The Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864) is a pathway to permanent residency in Australia for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. It offers an expedited process, allowing parents to reunite with their families in Australia permanently.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Parental Relationship: The applicant must be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
2. Age Requirement: The applicant must meet the age requirements for an aged pension under Australian law.
3. Balance of Family Test: At least half of the applicant’s children must live permanently in Australia, or more children live permanently in Australia than in any other single country.
4. Sponsorship: An eligible child must sponsor the parent and provide Assurance of Support.
5. Health and Character: The applicant and all family members applying must meet health and character requirements.

Application Process:

1. Eligibility Check: Confirm that the applicant meets all the eligibility criteria, including the balance of family test.
2. Sponsorship and Assurance of Support: The sponsoring child lodges a sponsorship application with the Department of Home Affairs and provides Assurance of Support.
3. Lodge Visa Application: Once sponsorship is approved, lodge the visa application online, providing all necessary documents, including identification, relationship proof, health assessments, and character documents.
4. Health and Character Checks: Undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates for all countries resided in since turning 16.
5. Waiting Period: Wait for the application to be processed. Additional documents might be requested.
6. Visa Grant: Upon approval, the applicant receives the Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864), granting permanent residency in Australia.

Benefits:

1. Permanent Residency: The visa offers permanent residency status, allowing parents to live in Australia indefinitely.
2. Access to Healthcare: Parents have access to Medicare, Australia’s healthcare system.
3. Work and Study: The parent can work and study in Australia without restrictions.
4. Family Reunion: Enables parents to reunite with their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen children.

FAQs:

Q: Is there an age limit for applying for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa?
A: There is no upper age limit, but the applicant must meet the age requirements for an aged pension under Australian law.

Q: Can the sponsoring child be a permanent resident, or do they have to be an Australian citizen?
A: The sponsoring child can be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

Q: How long does it take to process the Contributory Aged Parent Visa application?
A: Processing times vary, but it can take several years due to high demand. Contributory visa applicants are processed faster than non-contributory visa applicants.