Parent Visa (Subclass 143) Contributory Permanent Parent Migration to Australia
What is the Parent Visa (Subclass 143)?
The Parent Visa (Subclass 143) grants permanent residency to eligible parents who are sponsored by their settled child in Australia. Unlike the Parent Visa (Subclass 103), this visa requires a significantly higher application charge but generally offers much shorter processing times due to its contributory nature.
Successful applicants can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely and access Medicare and other permanent resident benefits.
Key Benefits of the Parent Visa (Subclass 143)
- Permanent residency in Australia
- Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely
- Access Medicare and Australia’s public healthcare system
- Sponsor eligible family members in the future
- Travel to and from Australia freely as a permanent resident
- Faster processing compared to non-contributory parent visas
- Pathway to Australian citizenship (subject to eligibility)
Who Can Apply for the Parent Visa (Subclass 143)?
You may be eligible to apply for this visa if:
• You are the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
• You meet the Balance of Family Test
• You have an eligible sponsor who is settled in Australia
• You satisfy health, character, and financial requirements
• You are outside Australia at the time of application and decision
This visa is suitable for parents who wish to migrate permanently without waiting decades for a non-contributory visa outcome.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Applicants for the Parent Visa (Subclass 143) must:
• Pass the Balance of Family Test
• Have an approved Australian sponsor
• Provide an Assurance of Support
• Meet health and character criteria
• Be prepared to pay the required contributory visa charges
Eligibility requirements are assessed strictly, and documentation must be carefully prepared to avoid delays or refusal.
Our Parent Visa (Subclass 143) Application Process
Step 1 – Confirm Eligibility
We assess the parent’s eligibility under the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143), including the parent–child relationship, sponsorship requirements, and whether the Balance of Family Test is met under Australian migration law.
Step 2: Sponsorship Preparation
We assist the sponsoring child with preparing sponsorship obligations and documentation, including proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency, income capacity, and assurance of support requirements specific to contributory parent visas.
Step 3: Application Lodgement
We prepare and lodge a complete, decision-ready Parent Visa (Subclass 143) application while the parent is outside Australia, ensuring all required documents are submitted correctly to secure a place in the processing queue.
Step 4: Queue Placement
Once requested by the Department, we guide you through health examinations, police clearances, and the second Visa Application Charge (contributory payment), ensuring each stage is completed accurately and on time.
Step 5 – Visa Grant & Permanent Residence
Upon approval, the Parent Visa (Subclass 143) is granted, allowing parents to migrate to Australia as permanent residents with full work rights, access to Medicare, and a pathway to Australian citizenship (subject to eligibility).
Other Parent Visa Options
Depending on your circumstances, other parent migration pathways may be available, including:
• Parent Visa (Subclass 103) – non-contributory permanent visa
• Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 173) – temporary pathway leading to the 143 visa
• Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) – onshore option for eligible older parents
Choosing the right visa requires careful comparison of costs, processing times, and long-term outcomes.
Alternative Parent Visa Options
Depending on your circumstances, you may also consider the following Australian parent visa options:
Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 173)
Temporary contributory visa that can lead to the permanent Subclass 143.
Parent Visa (Subclass 103)
Non-contributory permanent visa with significantly longer processing times.
Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)
Onshore permanent option for parents old enough to receive the Australian Age Pension.
Common Questions About Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)
Is this visa permanent?
Yes. The Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143) grants permanent residency in Australia from the date of grant.
Can I apply while in Australia?
No. The Subclass 143 visa is an offshore visa, meaning the applicant must be outside Australia both at the time of application and at the time the visa is granted.
Why does it take so long?
Processing times are long due to annual visa caps and high demand. Although Subclass 143 is prioritised over non-contributory parent visas, applications are still processed in a queue based on date of lodgement and payment of the second VAC.
Does this visa lead to citizenship?
Yes. After holding permanent residency and meeting residency and character requirements, visa holders may become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
Information provided is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Visa eligibility and requirements are subject to change. Services are provided by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518775) in accordance with the Migration Act 1958.
Ready to Explore Your Parent Visa Options?
Parent visa decisions have long-term consequences for families.
Our Registered Migration Agent will guide you through eligibility, strategy, and alternatives so you can make an informed decision with confidence.