864 Contributory Aged Parent (Onshore) Visa
864 Contributory Aged Parent (Onshore) Visa Overview
The 864 visa is a parent migration visa available to eligible Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens, allowing their aged parents to settle permanently in Australia. This visa is linked to the 884 Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) Visa, meaning applicants can either apply directly for the 864 visa or transition from the 884 visa. Applicants must be in Australia at the time of application submission and visa grant.
Key Features & Benefits
- No requirements for education, English proficiency, assets, or work experience: Open to all eligible aged parents.
- Rights of visa holders:
- Ability to work and study legally in Australia.
- Freedom to travel to and from Australia.
- Access to Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare).
- Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
- Visa-free travel to New Zealand.
- Pension & Social Benefits:
- Aged pension eligibility after 10 years.
- Other social benefits require meeting additional conditions.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
Sponsorship Requirements
- The applicant must have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- The sponsoring child must have been settled in Australia for at least two years (exceptions may apply in special cases).
Balance of Family Test
- At least half of the applicant’s children must be living in Australia as citizens or permanent residents, or
- The number of children residing in Australia must be greater than in any other single country.
- The test includes biological, step, and adopted children. The marital status, financial status, or location of the children does not affect the calculation.
Assurance of Support (AoS)
- The financial sponsor(s) must provide financial support to ensure the applicant does not rely on government assistance for 10 years.
- Up to three sponsors can combine their income to meet the financial requirement.
Bond Requirement:
- Primary applicant: AU $10,000
- Each additional adult applicant: AU $4,000
- The bond is refundable after 10 years, minus any government assistance received.
Health & Character Requirements
- Applicants and dependents must pass health and character assessments as required by the Australian immigration authorities.
Visa Application Process
- Initial Assessment: Determine eligibility for both the applicant and sponsor.
- Document Preparation: Gather and prepare all necessary application materials.
- Submit Application: Lodge the visa application and receive a reference number.
- Assurance of Support (AoS): Undergo financial assessment and approval.
- Health Examination: Complete medical checks.
- Visa Approval: Once all requirements are met, the visa is granted.
Visa Costs
Application Fees:
- Primary applicant: AU $4,225
- Secondary applicant (18 years and above): AU $2,110
- Secondary applicant (under 18 years): AU $1,060
Contributory Fee (Payable before visa grant):
- Applicants aged 18 and above: AU $43,600
- Applicants aged 18 and above (holding 884 visa): AU $19,420
- Applicants under 18 (holding 884 visa): AU $2,095
Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on policy changes and the number of applications received.
Note: All policies and fees are subject to updates from the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Please refer to official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.