Contributory vs Non-Contributory Parents Visa: Which One Should You Apply For?

If your kids are staying in Australia and you want to live with them, then you must have heard about the Parents Visa. For many families, this visa is not only about moving country; it’s about being together again after a long time. When you check the details, you will see two main options: Contributory and Non-Contributory Parent Visa. Both help parents to live in Australia permanently, but they are different. One is fast but costly; the other is cheaper but takes many years. So choosing depends on your budget and how soon you want to join your children.

What Is a Parents Visa?

A parents visa allows the parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. It is a way for families to reconnect and live close to each other again.

There are two main categories:

1. Contributory Parents Visa

2. Non-Contributory Parents Visa

At first, both visas look almost the same, but the main difference is in the money, waiting time, and how they are processed.

Contributory Parents Visa – The Faster Option

The Contributory Parent Visa is for families who can pay more money but want the visa process to happen much faster. Usually, it takes about 3 to 5 years to get this visa approved.

The word “contributory” comes from the large financial contribution that applicants make to help cover healthcare and social costs. It costs a lot, but the good part is that parents can go to Australia faster and live with their family without waiting for many years.

There are two main types in this group:

• Subclass 143 – Contributory Parents Visa (Permanent)

• Subclass 173 – Contributory Parents Visa (Temporary)

Some applicants start with the 173 visa (which lasts two years) and then apply for the 143 to spread out the total cost. It is a common and practical way to manage expenses.

Non-Contributory Parents Visa – The Longer Path

The non-contributory parents visa is more affordable in terms of government fees, but comes with a very long waiting time. It can take more than 12 years to be processed, sometimes even longer, depending on the queue.

These visas include:

• Subclass 103 – Parents Visa (Permanent)

• Subclass 804 – Aged Parents Visa (Permanent)

The biggest advantage is cost. Many retired parents choose this path because they cannot afford the contributory fees. But the main drawback is time. It is not uncommon to wait over a decade for a visa grant under this stream.

I remember reading about one family who applied when their kids were newly married, and by the time their visa was approved, those same kids already had teenagers of their own. It really shows how long this can take.

Comparing Cost and Waiting Time

Here is a simple way to look at the difference between the two parents visa categories:

Type                                Approximate Cost (AUD)                      Average Processing Time Contributory,                   around 47,000+ per applicant                     3–5 years

Non-Contributory,         A few thousand                                                  12–15 years

So, it becomes a matter of choice whether you want to wait longer and pay less or pay more and join your family sooner.

Basic Eligibility for Both Types

To apply for a parents visa, you need to meet certain conditions:

• Your child must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

• Your child must have been living in Australia for at least two years.

• You must pass the Balance of Family Test (meaning most of your children live in Australia).

• You need to meet health and character requirements.

This “Balance of Family Test” is very important. For example, if you have four children and two live permanently in Australia while two live overseas, you pass the test. But if three live outside Australia, you do not.

Benefits of a Parents Visa

No matter which stream you choose, both parents visa types give long-term benefits once granted.

You can:

• Live in Australia indefinitely.

• Access public healthcare (Medicare).

• Apply for Australian citizenship later on.

• Sponsor eligible family members.

• Travel freely in and out of Australia for five years.

It gives a real sense of security knowing that you can finally be near your children and grandchildren again.

Challenges and Considerations

While the parents visa is a great pathway, it does require patience and careful planning. The contributory one can be financially heavy, and the non-contributory one demands long waiting periods.

It is also important to understand that the queue system for parent visas moves slowly because the number of places is limited each year. Even if your documents are perfect, it might take years before processing starts.

That is why many families speak with registered migration agents to plan properly before applying.

How to Apply for a Parents Visa

Applying for a parents visa usually starts with an online form through the immigration system. You must submit personal details, family information, and supporting documents like the identity papers and proof of your relationship with your children.

those are After you apply, your file will go into the waiting line. You can check your visa progress anytime from your online accounts. Some parents apply from outside Australia, and some aged parents can apply while staying there. Keep your papers ready and reply quickly to immigration to avoid delay.

Medical and Character Checks

that are Every parents visa applicant needs to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance from any country they have lived in for more than a year. These checks ensure that applicants meet Australia’s public health and character standards.

It is always a good idea to complete these early to avoid delays once your case starts being processed.

The Emotional Side of Waiting

that are For many families, waiting for the parent visa is an emotional time. When your loved ones are far, even a few years feel long. Missing birthdays and special moments hurts, but having hope keeps families strong. One mother said, “My file is there, so one day I’ll reach them.”

What About the 590 Visa?

those are Sometimes, families ask about other visa options while waiting for their parents visa to be approved. One that often comes up is the 590 visa.

The 590 visa is a Student Guardian Visa. It allows a parent or guardian to come to Australia temporarily to care for a child who is studying there. However, it is not a permanent visa it is only valid for the duration of the student’s course.

If you are waiting for a permanent parents visa, the 590 visa might provide a short-term way to stay close, but it will not lead directly to permanent residency. Still, for some families, it helps keep loved ones connected during the long wait.

Final Thoughts

that are Choosing between a contributory and non-contributory parent visa mainly depends on what is important for your family. time or money. The contributory visa is faster but costly, while the non-contributory one takes many years but saves money. If your child is studying in Australia, you can also look at the 590 visa for short-term stays. Whatever you choose, always check the latest rules and keep your documents ready. The Parent Visa process may take time, but in the end, being with your children in Australia makes it all worth it.

FAQ

1. What is the main difference between a contributory and a non-contributory parents visa?

The big difference between these two Parent Visas is money and time. Contributory is costly but faster, while Non-Contributory is cheaper but very slow.

2. Can I apply for a parents visa while I am already in Australia?

Yes, some parents can apply while staying in Australia. If you are aged and meet the rules, you may get a bridging visa too.

3. How long will I have to wait for a parents visa?

It depends on which visa you take. The contributory takes around 3–5 years, while the non-contributory can take 10 years or more.

4. What are the main eligibility rules for the parents visa?

To get a parent visa, your child must be an Australian citizen or PR, and you must pass health and family tests.

5. Can the 590 visa help while waiting for a parents visa?

Yes, the 590 visa lets parents stay in Australia for some time to support their child studying. It’s temporary, not permanent.