Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)
Australia takes pride in the fact that it is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. At the heart of this multiculturalism is its Family and Partner visa program encouraging family members to stay and visit in the country to strengthen the family ties between Australians and those living abroad. As part of this program, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has introduced the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (Subclass 870) which allows parents of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to gain temporary residence in Australia for up to five years.
Eligibility and Requirements for Subclass 870 Visa
The parent wishing to stay in Australia for a temporary stay must first meet certain eligibility criteria and financial requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to apply for the Subclass 870 visa, the applicant must meet the following eligibility requirements:
– The applicant must be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
– The applicant must be sponsored by the parent’s child
– The applicant must meet the prescribed health and character criteria
– The applicant must have access to sufficient funds to cover living costs
Financial Requirements
The applicant must also meet certain financial requirements in order to be eligible for the Subclass 870 visa. The applicant must:
– Have or gain access to sufficient funds to cover the cost of return or onward travel and the cost of the applicant’s stay in Australia
– Provide evidence of access to sufficient funds to cover the cost of living, including basic accommodation and food costs
– The applicant must have access to private health insurance for their stay in Australia
Application process for Subclass 870 visa
The application process for the Subclass 870 visa is straightforward. The applicant must:
– Submit an online application that includes all supporting documents
– Pay the applicable visa application fees
– Undergo character and health checks
– Acquire medical insurance
– Demonstrate their access to funds to cover their costs in Australia
Once the application is submitted, the application will be reviewed by the Department of Home Affairs who will assess the applicant against the criteria for the visa and make a decision in due course.
Benefits of the Subclass 870 visa
The Subclass 870 visa provides many benefits to the sponsor and applicant, some of which include:
– The visa allows the applicant to reside in Australia temporarily for up to five years
– The visa allows the applicant to access Medicare
– The visa allows the applicant to travel to and from Australia as often as they wish, as long as they maintain a valid visa
– The visa allows the applicant to work in Australia, subject to work and residency restrictions
FAQ
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the Subclass 870 visa?
A: The applicant must be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who is sponsoring their stay in Australia.
Q: How long is the Subclass 870 visa valid for?
A: The Subclass 870 visa is valid for up to five years.
Q: What are the financial requirements for the Subclass 870 visa?
A: The applicant must have or gain access to sufficient funds to cover their costs in Australia, including the cost of their return or onward travel and basic accommodation and food costs.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the Subclass 870 visa?
A: Yes. The visa holder is eligible to work in Australia, however, there may be restrictions depending on the visa holder’s residency status. Additionally, the visa holder is not eligible to access any social security payments.
Conclusion
The Subclass 870 visa provides a great opportunity for the parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens to reside in Australia temporarily up to five years and experience the country first-hand. It is important that applicants understand the eligibility criteria, financial requirements, and application process before applying for the visa. The visa provides a variety of benefits, including access to Medicare and the ability to work in Australia subject to certain restrictions.
