The Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa allows parents or grandparents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia temporarily for up to 5 years without the need to depart frequently. It provides a practical solution for families seeking to reunite while ensuring that the financial burden does not fall on Australian taxpayers.

 

Key Features of the Subclass 870 Visa:

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• Duration: Up to 5 years with the option to reapply for an additional 5 years (totaling 10 years).

• Quota: Limited to 15,000 visas per financial year.

• Financial Responsibility: The sponsor must act as a financial guarantor for any public health or aged care costs incurred by the visa holder.

 

Eligibility Criteria

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For the Sponsor:

1. Must be at least 18 years old.

2. Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

3. Provide proof of financial capacity.

4. Pass character requirements.

5. Submit a sponsorship application and receive approval before the parent can apply for the visa.

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For the Parent:

1. Must be a biological, adoptive, or step-parent of the sponsor.

2. Must meet health and character requirements.

3. Cannot work in Australia during their stay.

 

Step-by-Step Process

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1. Sponsorship Application:
    

   • The Australian child must submit a sponsorship application.

   • This includes financial and character checks.

   • Processing time is usually several months.

2. Visa Application:
    

   • Once the sponsorship is approved, the parent applies for the Subclass 870 visa.

   • Required documentation includes identification, proof of relationship, and health and character evidence.

3. Decision on Visa Application:
    

   • Processing times vary but may take several months depending on the volume of applications.

4. Stay in Australia:
    

   • The parent can live in Australia for up to 5 years. However, this visa does not lead to permanent residency.

 

Benefits of the Subclass 870 Visa

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• Extended Stay: Avoids the need for frequent departures compared to visitor visas.

• Family Reunification: Offers a cost-effective alternative to long-term parent visas with extensive processing times.

 

FAQs

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1. Can I work in Australia on a Subclass 870 visa?
No, this visa does not grant work rights. Its purpose is solely for family reunion.

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2. What is the cost of the Subclass 870 visa?
The total visa cost is AUD 5,090 for a 5-year visa. Sponsorship application fees are separate and cost AUD 420.

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3. Can I apply for permanent residency through this visa?
No, the Subclass 870 is a temporary visa with no direct pathway to permanent residency.

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4. Can parents access Medicare on this visa?
No, visa holders are not eligible for Medicare and must have private health insurance for the duration of their stay. 

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5. What happens if the sponsorship is canceled?
If the sponsorship is canceled, the parent may have to leave Australia unless another valid visa is obtained.

 

Act Now to Secure Your Visa

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The Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent Visa has limited annual places, and demand is high. With meticulous preparation and professional guidance, you can navigate the complexities of sponsorship and visa applications effectively. Don’t delay—secure your family's reunion today by contacting our expert migration team. Together, we can make this process smooth and stress-free!