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Contributory Aged Parent Visa (864)
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What is the Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864)?
The Contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 864) allows older parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. It is available to parents who are already in Australia and who meet the age requirement for the Australian Age Pension.
This visa offers a faster processing time than standard aged parent visas but comes with a higher government fee. It is ideal for families seeking a permanent solution without the decades-long wait time of the non-contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 804). Some applicants choose to apply for the temporary subclass 884 visa first, then transition to the 864 visa to spread the cost over time.
Who Can Apply for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa 864?
To be eligible for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa (subclass 864), applicants must:
- Be onshore in Australia at the time of applying and when a decision is made
- Be of an age that qualifies for the Australian Age Pension
- Be the parent of a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
- Pass the Balance of Family Test
- Meet health and character requirements
- Be sponsored by an eligible child who has lived lawfully in Australia for at least two years
- Be able to obtain an Assurance of Support, including a bond
Benefits of the Contributory Aged Parent Visa
This visa offers a range of benefits, including:
- Permanent residency in Australia
- Faster processing times compared to non-contributory aged parent visas
- Full access to Medicare and public healthcare services
- The right to live, work, and study in Australia
- A pathway to citizenship, once eligible
- Option to include your partner or dependent family members in the application
Document Checklist for the Contributory Aged Parent Visa Application
Applicants will typically need to provide:
- Passport and identity documents
- Evidence of parent-child relationship (e.g., birth certificate)
- Proof of the sponsor’s citizenship or permanent residency
- Documentation confirming the applicant meets the Age Pension age requirement
- Balance of Family Test documentation
- Police checks and health assessments
- Sponsorship forms and Assurance of Support documentation
How the Contributory Aged Parent Visa Works
- Apply Onshore – You must be in Australia when applying and when the visa is granted.
Optional Temporary Step – You may apply for the temporary subclass 884 visa first, then transition to the 864 visa, which spreads costs over time. - Sponsorship & Financial Commitment – Your sponsor must agree to an Assurance of Support, including a financial bond.
- Permanent Residency Granted – Once approved, you’ll receive permanent residency with access to all the benefits that come with it.
At Australian Visa Advice, we help older parents and their families explore visa pathways that balance cost, urgency, and long-term settlement goals. Our experienced team ensures you have everything needed for a smooth and successful application process.
Contributory Aged Parent Visa FAQs
Processing is generally faster than non-contributory aged parent visas, though timelines vary depending on demand and government allocations.
Yes. This visa is specifically for applicants who are already in Australia at the time of application and decision.
The 864 visa grants permanent residency, while the 884 is a temporary visa. Applying for the 884 first can help spread the total cost over time.
Yes. You must have at least half your children living permanently in Australia, or more children in Australia than in any other country.
It is a legal agreement by your sponsor to financially support you, which includes a bond paid to the government, held for 10 years.
