Parent Visa Australia Guide: Subclass 173 vs 143 Requirements, Costs & Processing Times
- Leading Edge
- Mar 1
- 6 min read
Reuniting families is one of the most meaningful pathways in Australian migration. If you’re looking to bring your parents to Australia, the Subclass 173 (Temporary Contributory Parent Visa) and Subclass 143 (Permanent Contributory Parent Visa) are two of the most popular options.
In this guide, Leading Edge Migration explains the key requirements, eligibility criteria, processing times, costs, and benefits of these parent visas—so you can make an informed decision.
What Are the Subclass 173 and Subclass 143 Parent Visas?
Both visas allow parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia.
Subclass 173 Visa (Temporary Parent Visa)
Valid for up to 2 years
Allows parents to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily
Provides a pathway to permanent residency via the Subclass 143 visa
Subclass 143 Visa (Permanent Parent Visa)
Grants permanent residency in Australia
Access to Medicare (public healthcare)
Full work and study rights
Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship
Key Eligibility Requirements for Parent Visas
To apply for either Subclass 173 or Subclass 143, applicants must meet strict criteria:
1. Sponsorship by a Child
Must be sponsored by a child who is:
An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
The child must be “settled” (living lawfully in Australia for at least 2 years)
2. Balance of Family Test
You must meet one of the following:
At least half of your children live permanently in Australia, OR
More of your children live in Australia than in any other country
3. Assurance of Support (AoS)
A legal commitment ensuring you won’t rely on government welfare
Usually provided by your sponsor or another eligible person
4. Health and Character Requirements
Complete medical examinations
Provide police clearance certificates
Parent Visa Application Process
Applying for a parent visa in Australia involves several stages:
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Identity documents
Proof of relationship (birth certificates, etc.)
Evidence of sponsor eligibility
Step 2: Lodge the Application
Submit your application with the Department of Home Affairs
Ensure all documents are accurate and complete
Step 3: Wait for Processing
Subclass 173: Several years
Subclass 143: Typically 5–6+ years
Additional information may be requested during this period
Step 4: Visa Decision
Once granted, you can begin planning your move to Australia
Subclass 173 vs 143 Visa Costs
These visas are called “contributory” because of their higher application fees, which help fund public services.
Subclass 173 Visa Cost
Lower upfront cost
Paid in two instalments
Subclass 143 Visa Cost
Higher total cost
Larger second instalment before the grant
Reflects permanent residency benefits
Benefits of the Subclass 143 Permanent Parent Visa
Choosing the Subclass 143 visa offers long-term advantages:
Permanent Residency: Live in Australia indefinitely
Healthcare Access: Enrol in Medicare
Work & Study Rights: No restrictions
Social Security Access: After waiting periods
Citizenship Pathway: Apply if eligibility is met
Important Considerations Before Applying
Before starting your application, consider:
Financial Commitment
Parent visas require significant financial investment, especially the Subclass 143.
Long Processing Times
Wait times can span several years, impacting family planning.
Alternative Visa Options
Other parent visa pathways may be more suitable depending on your situation.
Final Thoughts
The Subclass 173 and Subclass 143 Parent Visas offer a valuable opportunity for families to reunite in Australia. Understanding the requirements, costs, and timelines is essential for making the right decision.
If you’re considering a parent visa, early planning and expert guidance can make all the difference.
How Leading Edge Migration Can Help
Parent visa applications are complex, with strict legal and documentary requirements. At Leading Edge Migration, we provide:
Personalised Visa Advice – Tailored strategies based on your family situation
Decision-Ready Applications – Minimising delays and avoiding errors
Expert Migration Support – Handling communication with authorities
Proven Experience – Strong track record in parent visa approvals
Our goal is to make your migration journey clear, efficient, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between Subclass 173 and Subclass 143 visas?
The Subclass 173 is a temporary visa valid for 2 years, while the Subclass 143 is a permanent visa that provides full residency benefits, including Medicare and a pathway to citizenship.
Can I apply directly for the Subclass 143 visa?
Yes. You can apply directly for the Subclass 143 visa without first applying for the Subclass 173 visa if you are prepared to pay the higher visa costs upfront.
How long do parent visas take to process?
Processing times are lengthy:
Subclass 173: Several years
Subclass 143: Typically 5–6 years or longer
Is an Assurance of Support (AoS) required?
Yes. Both visas require an Assurance of Support, which ensures that applicants will not rely on Australian government welfare.
Can I work and study on a Subclass 173 visa?
Yes. The Subclass 173 visa allows you to work and study in Australia, but it does not provide the full benefits of permanent residency.
What happens after the Subclass 173 visa expires?
Before your Subclass 173 visa expires, you can apply for the Subclass 143 permanent visa to continue living in Australia.
Do I need to be in Australia to apply?
No. You can apply from inside or outside Australia, depending on your circumstances at the time of application.
Can my partner be included in the application?
Yes. You can include your spouse or de facto partner in your parent visa application.
What is the Balance of Family Test?
This test requires that:
At least half of your children live permanently in Australia, OR
More of your children live in Australia than in any other country
It is a key requirement for most parent visas.
What is considered a “settled” child?
A settled child is someone who has lived lawfully in Australia for at least 2 years as a citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Can I access Medicare on a Subclass 173 visa?
No. Medicare access is generally available only after obtaining the Subclass 143 permanent visa, unless other eligibility applies.
What are the health requirements for parent visas?
Applicants must undergo medical examinations to meet Australia’s health standards and ensure they do not pose a significant cost to the healthcare system.
What are the character requirements?
You must provide police clearance certificates and meet character requirements set by the Australian Government.
Can I travel in and out of Australia on these visas?
Yes:
Subclass 173: Travel freely during the visa validity
Subclass 143: Includes a 5-year travel facility from the date of grant
What happens if my application is refused?
If your visa is refused, you may:
Be eligible to appeal the decision, or
Reapply after addressing the reasons for refusal
Professional advice is strongly recommended in these situations.
Are there faster parent visa options?
Yes, there are alternative pathways (such as temporary or non-contributory parent visas), but they may have longer queues or different requirements.
How much does a parent visa cost in Australia?
Costs vary but are generally:
Subclass 173: Lower upfront, payable in stages
Subclass 143: Higher total cost, reflecting permanent residency benefits
Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed before applying.
Can I include dependent children in my application?
In some cases, dependent children can be included if they meet eligibility requirements.
When can I apply for Australian citizenship?
After holding the Subclass 143 visa and meeting residency requirements, you may become eligible to apply for citizenship.
Why are parent visa processing times so long?
Processing times are long due to:
High demand
Annual migration program caps
Extensive health, character, and financial checks.
Why Trust Leading Edge Migration with Your Family’s Future?
Navigating Australia’s migration system—and the evolving requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs—can be complex and overwhelming. At Leading Edge Migration, we simplify the process by providing clear, strategic advice tailored to your family’s unique situation.
We go beyond basic application support. Our team develops comprehensive migration strategies, ensuring every aspect of your parent visa application is carefully prepared—from meeting the Balance of Family Test to managing the financial and legal requirements of the Assurance of Support.
With a strong foundation in migration law and a client-focused approach, we combine technical expertise with genuine care. We understand that a parent visa is more than paperwork—it’s about reuniting families and building a future together in Australia.
Let us handle the complexities, so you can focus on what matters most: bringing your family home.
Contact Leading Edge Migration today to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and positioned for success.
📞 Call us: +61 08 9221 8472
📍 Perth Office: Unit 3, 239 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, WA 6000
📩 Email: info@leadingedgemigration.com.au
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances
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