The Subclass 864 Contributory Aged Parent Visa allows older parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live permanently in Australia. This visa is tailored for applicants who meet the age requirements for the Australian age pension and are willing to pay a higher visa application charge to reduce processing time compared to non-contributory parent visas.

 

Key Features of the Subclass 864 Visa

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• Permanent Residency: Grants access to Medicare, work, and study rights in Australia.

• Shorter Queue Times: Compared to the non-contributory Aged Parent visa (Subclass 804), it has faster processing due to the contributory fee structure.

• Eligibility for Citizenship: Permanent residents can eventually apply for Australian citizenship, subject to meeting residency and other requirements.

 

Eligibility Criteria

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1. Sponsorship: Applicants must have a sponsor who is their child, a permanent resident, citizen, or eligible New Zealand citizen settled in Australia.

2. Age Requirement: The applicant must meet the pensionable age in Australia.

3. Balance of Family Test: At least half of the applicant's children must live in Australia, or more of their children must reside in Australia than in any other single country.

4. Assurance of Support: A financial commitment from an assurer to cover potential social security costs for a decade.

5. Health and Character Standards: Applicants must undergo medical checks and character assessments.

 

Application Process

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1. Prepare Documents

• Proof of identity, family relationship, and sponsorship.

• Evidence of financial capacity and Assurance of Support bond.

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2. Lodge the Application

• Apply onshore in Australia, ensuring the applicant holds a visa allowing for onshore application. Bridging visas may be issued while the application is processed.

3. Pay the First VAC (Visa Application Charge)

• Submit the first installment upon application. The second, higher installment is payable before visa grant.

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4. Medical and Character Checks

• Complete required health exams and provide police clearances.

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5. Assurance of Support

• Arrange for the financial assurance bond to be paid by the assurer.

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6. Wait for Decision

• Processing times can vary but are generally faster than non-contributory parent visa pathways.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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1. What is the total cost of the Subclass 864 visa?

The visa involves a significant Visa Application Charge (VAC): approximately AUD $4,895 for the first installment and AUD $48,495 for the second installment per applicant. Additional costs may apply for dependents and other services.

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2. How long does the processing take?

The processing time is shorter compared to Subclass 804. However, as of recent reports, it can still take several years due to high demand and limited quotas.

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3. Can the Assurance of Support requirement be waived?

No, the Assurance of Support is mandatory. It provides financial security to the Australian government for a 10-year period post-visa grant.

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4. Can I include dependents in my application?

Yes, eligible dependent family members can be included, but they must meet health, character, and dependency requirements.

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5. Are there any age restrictions for this visa?

Yes, if you are at the Australian pension age, you should be applying for the aged category visas instead because an onshore application will get you a Bridging Visa A that generally allows you to live and work in Australia until there is an outcome on your visa application.

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Why Act Now?

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Delays in application can lead to extended waiting times due to increasing demand and limited quotas for parent visas. Ensure your family’s future is secure by beginning your application today. As registered migration agents, we are here to streamline the process and maximize your success. Don’t let opportunities slip away—contact us now to start your journey toward family reunion in Australia!