What is the Sponsored Parent
(Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)?
The Subclass 870 visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to stay in Australia temporarily for extended periods. Each visa can grant a stay of up to five years, and parents can remain for a maximum cumulative period of 10 years. CECA can assist with guidance on eligibility, sponsorship, and application to ensure a smooth process.
Sponsorship and Eligibility Requirements
Sponsor Eligibility and Obligations
- Must have the required relationship to the applicant as defined by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Eligible New Zealand citizens must have lived in Australia for at least four years immediately before lodging the sponsorship application.
- Must not have any outstanding Commonwealth or public health debts.
- Must have a history of complying with previous sponsorship obligations.
- Must not have any negative information recorded by the Department of Home Affairs that could impact the application.
- Must maintain sufficient household income to support the parents during their stay and meet all sponsorship responsibilities.
Key Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
- Must be sponsored by an approved parent sponsor.
- If currently holding a Subclass 870 visa, must spend at least 90 days outside Australia before lodging a new application.
- Must provide evidence of adequate financial resources and hold valid health insurance for the entire intended stay.
- Must meet Australia’s health, character, and security requirements.
- Must not have any outstanding debts to the Australian Government or public health system.
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility based on relationship to the sponsor and previous visa history.
- Secure an approved parent sponsor who meets all obligations.
- Prepare documentation including identity, sponsor evidence, financial proof, and health insurance.
- Submit the visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
- Monitor application progress and respond promptly to requests. CECA can provide expert assistance throughout the process.
Tips for Faster Processing
- Submit a complete and accurate application with all required documents.
- Ensure your sponsor meets all eligibility requirements to avoid delays.
- Maintain clear and updated health and character documentation.
- Apply online via ImmiAccount to benefit from faster electronic processing.
- Consult CECA for review of your application before submission to reduce errors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete sponsorship forms or missing sponsor details.
- Insufficient proof of financial capacity or health insurance coverage.
- Not observing the 90-day outside-Australia rule before reapplying.
- Failing to declare previous visa refusals or cancellations.
- Submitting outdated or incorrectly translated documents.
FAQs About
Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (SUBCLASS 870)
What is the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)?
The Subclass 870 visa allows eligible Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to sponsor their parents to stay in Australia for extended periods.
Who can apply for the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870)?
Parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens can apply for this visa if they meet health and character requirements, have adequate health insurance, and are sponsored by their child in Australia.
What are the key eligibility criteria for sponsors of the Subclass 870 Visa?
- Sponsors must be over 18 years old.
- Sponsors must be eligible Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens.
- Sponsors must meet financial and residency requirements.
- Sponsors must provide financial support for the parents’ stay and act as guarantors for potential healthcare or public debt costs.
How long does the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) allow parents to stay in Australia?
The Subclass 870 visa offers two streams: a 3-year and a 5-year option, allowing multiple entries into Australia within the visa’s validity period.
Can the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) be extended?
The Subclass 870 visa cannot be extended. Once it expires, the parent must leave Australia, although they can apply for another visa if they meet eligibility requirements.
