Guide to Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 173

Australia offers several visa options for parents of settled Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible New Zealand citizens. Among them, the Australian contributory parent visas are a temporary yet important first step for families seeking long-term reunification in Australia. If you’re looking to bring your parents to Australia or planning to migrate as a parent yourself, understanding the Parent Visa 173 is essential.

In this guide, we’ll explain the visa process, eligibility, costs, and benefits of the 173 parents visa Australia, and how it leads to permanent residency.

What is the Contributory Parent Visa 173?

The Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 173 is a temporary visa that allows parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia for up to two years. During this time, visa holders can reside, work, and study in the country. While it doesn’t offer permanent residency, it is specifically designed to be a pathway toward the permanent Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 143.

This visa is ideal for parents who want to test living in Australia or who plan to eventually apply for permanent residency without waiting through long processing times of non-contributory parent visas.

Key Features of Parent Visa Subclass 173

• Temporary visa valid for 2 years
• Allows holders to live, work, and study in Australia
• Provides access to Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
• A stepping stone to the Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 143
• Can be applied for from outside Australia only
• No requirement to meet the Balance of Family Test again when applying for Subclass 143

Who Can Apply for Parent Visa 173?

To apply for the contributory parent visa 173, the applicant must meet the following eligibility criteria:

✔️ Sponsor Eligibility:

• The sponsor must be the applicant’s child who is:
  • An Australian citizen, or
  • An Australian permanent resident, or
  • An eligible New Zealand citizen
• The sponsor must be settled in Australia (usually having lived in Australia for at least two years)
• The sponsor must be over 18 years old

✔️ Applicant Eligibility:

• Must be outside Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted
• Must meet the Balance of Family Test (at least half of the children must be living in Australia permanently)
• Must meet health and character requirements
• Must agree to pay a higher visa application charge due to the contributory nature of the visa
• Cannot have already applied for or hold a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa Subclass 870

Benefits of the 173 Parents Visa Australia

• Live in Australia for up to 2 years with your children and grandchildren
• Work and study without restriction
• Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
• No sponsorship reassessment required when transitioning to Subclass 143
• Reduces financial burden compared to applying directly for the permanent visa
• Allows parents to integrate into Australian society before committing to permanent residency

Transitioning to Permanent Residency

One of the key advantages of the parent visa 173 is that it offers a direct pathway to the permanent Contributory Parent Visa 143.

Here’s how the process works:

1. Apply for and receive the Subclass 173 (temporary) visa.
2. Live in Australia for up to 2 years.
3. Before the temporary visa expires, apply for the Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 143.
4. If granted, the applicant receives permanent residency, with access to more benefits.

Cost of Visa Subclass 173

The contributory parent visa 173 has a significantly higher application fee compared to non-contributory visas. The cost is due to the “contributory” nature, where applicants help cover the long-term health and welfare costs.

• Base application fee: Approximately AUD 31,980 (as of current guidelines)
• Second installment: Not applicable for Subclass 173, but applies when transitioning to Subclass 143
• Other costs: Medical exams, police checks, translation of documents, and biometric fees

Note: Prices are subject to change, and it’s wise to check with a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for up-to-date fees.

Processing Time for Parent Visa 173

Processing times for the 173 parents’ visa Australia can vary depending on demand, application completeness, and document verification.

• Estimated Timeframe: 18–24 months (subject to change)
• Delays may occur if additional documentation is requested
• Faster compared to the non-contributory parent visa, which can take over 10 years

Documents Required for Visa Subclass 173

You’ll need to provide various documents when applying for the parent visa subclass 173, including:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificates to prove the relationship with your child
• Evidence of your child’s permanent residency or citizenship
• Health and character documents (medical exams, police certificates)
• Balance of family documents
• Sponsor’s supporting documents (proof of residence and identity)

What About Visa Subclass 174?

There’s often confusion about the visa subclass 174, but it’s important to note that Subclass 174 is not an active or available visa in the Australian immigration system. The correct visa for temporary contributory parent migration is Subclass 173. Any references to Subclass 174 online are either outdated or incorrect.

Always consult an official source or a registered migration agent to avoid confusion with visa subclasses.

Why Use a Migration Agent?

Applying for the parent visa subclass 173 can be a complex and emotionally taxing process. A qualified migration agent can help you:

• Understand eligibility clearly
• Prepare and review all documentation
• Liaise with the Department of Home Affairs
• Avoid delays and mistakes in the application
• Plan a smooth transition from Subclass 173 to 143

For those based in Queensland, consulting a trusted migration agent in Brisbane who specializes in parent visas can make the process much more manageable.

Final Thoughts

The Contributory Parent Visa 173 is a powerful option for families looking to reunite in Australia without the long wait times of other parent visas. Although temporary, this visa opens the door to permanent residency, enabling parents to live with their children and enjoy the benefits of the Australian lifestyle.

If you’re considering bringing your parents to Australia, or if you’re a parent hoping to join your family here, the parent visa 173 may be the right path forward.