Permanent family reunion is a goal many families aspire to when settling in Australia. Thankfully, Australia does offer parents visas, but the options can seem confusing. Making a choice between a contributory and non-contributory parent visa in Australia is one many face. There are differences in fees, processing times and which is right for you. Let’s take a closer look.
Different types of parent visas
The Department of Home Affairs administers parent visas, which are subject to strict eligibility requirements and annual place limitations. There are two types of parent visas: contributory and non-contributory. Despite their differences, these visas all lead to Australian permanent residency.
Contributory parent visas: Quick processing for high fees
Contributory parent visas are an option for families seeking faster processing of their parents’ migration applications. This option typically requires higher fees and payment in instalments. The idea is that families who choose this option are financially capable of contributing significant amounts to help offset the cost of their parents’ long-term usage of resources such as healthcare and social services.
One key benefit of applying for a contributory visa is the processing time. While there are never any guarantees with visas that the government sets quotas and limitations for, you can typically expect to receive a decision within a few years. These visas are perfect for families who want to get their parents to Australia as soon as possible.
Upon approval, the parent receives permanent residency and is free to live and work in Australia at will. They will also have access to Medicare and all the benefits that come with being a permanent resident.
While it is significantly quicker to process than a non-contributory parent visa, there are drawbacks. First and foremost, it is much more expensive. When accounting for both parents, fees can become costly for many families. Remember, there are additional costs beyond the visa application fees. Services such as medical examinations and police certificates may also require payment. Some candidates may need to pay professional fees as well.
Non-contributory parent visas: Minimal fees and maximum wait times
Non-contributory parent visas are best for applicants seeking lower fees. Unlike contributory parent visas, these applications have much lower charges.
Of course, with that comes one major drawback. Processing times for non-contributory parent visas can take over 30 years. Every year, there are only a small number of places available for these visas, and many individuals get in line hoping for approval. You could wait twice that long.
Like contributory parent visas, this option also grants you permanent residency upon approval. Unfortunately, the time it takes to process these applications can be inconvenient for parents waiting. They may need to stay on temporary visitor visas to see their children every once in a while. Also, if anything changes in their life (medical, family, etc.), it can affect their ability to be approved.
Non-contributory parent visas can be a great option for families that don’t mind waiting and want to save as much money as possible.
Meeting the parent visa eligibility criteria
Regardless of which pathway you choose, there are general eligibility criteria that all parent applicants must meet. The first test that parent applicants undergo is called the balance-of-family test. This test ensures that either half of your children are permanent residents of Australia or that more children reside in Australia than in any other country. This ensures you have stronger ties to Australia than to other countries.
Parents will also need an eligible sponsor. Normally, this will be their child who is either a citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen living in Australia. Applicants will most likely be required to sign an Assurance of Support, a financial document that shows you will not rely on government welfare and that your sponsor can support you while you live in Australia. Both parents and sponsors will be required to pass a health examination and submit police certificates from every country they’ve lived in for a specified period.
Application forms will also need to be filled out with extensive proof of identity and relationship to sponsors. Failure to provide accurate documents can delay applications.
Contributory vs non-contributory: How to decide
When deciding between a contributory and a non-contributory parent visa, you must consider a variety of factors. How quickly do you want your parent(s) to receive permanent residency? How old are your parents? Are you prepared to handle large sums of money being paid out? All these questions and more should be asked when figuring out your action plan.
Parents who are older or have medical conditions may want to apply for a contributory parent visa to ensure faster processing. If you have the money to spare without worry, then contributory visas can also offer you and your parents peace of mind. Otherwise, non-contributory parent visas can offer you cheaper alternatives that allow you to invite your parent(s) to Australia. Some families even tie the process of applying for a parent visa while on temporary visas that allow them to visit regularly or remain in Australia on a Bridging visa.
Need some help?
If you’re still undecided or have further questions about parent visas, consider speaking with a qualified migration agent in Cairns. They can assist you with tailoring your application to your family’s unique needs and help ensure it’s done the first time.
