103 Visa – Parent Visa Australia for Permanent Residency

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103 Visa

Apply for the 103 Visa – Parent Visa for Permanent Residency

The 103 visa (Parent Visa Subclass 103) allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to migrate permanently to Australia. This visa is ideal for families seeking long-term reunification without paying the higher costs associated with contributory parent visas.

While the processing time is longer, this visa provides a more affordable path to Australian permanent residency.

What Is the 103 Parent Visa?

The Subclass 103 Parent Visa is a permanent visa that enables parents to:

  • Live in Australia permanently with their children
  • Access Medicare (Australia’s public health system)
  • Apply for Australian citizenship if eligible
  • Sponsor other eligible family members

Due to high demand, this visa is subject to a lengthy queue. However, for families planning well in advance, it remains a popular option.

Visa Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the 103 visa, you must:

  • Be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen
  • Meet the Balance of Family Test (at least half of your children must be living permanently in Australia)
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • Be sponsored by your child or an eligible sponsor

💡 You can be inside or outside Australia at the time of application—but you must be outside Australia when the visa is granted.

Processing Time and Considerations

The 103 visa processing time can be extensive—often taking over 10 years due to the limited number of places in the migration program.

Therefore, some families explore temporary alternatives (such as the 870 visa) while waiting. We can help you develop the right strategy.

Visa Cost

The current Department of Home Affairs charges for the 103 visa are over AUD $7,100 payable in two instalments. Additional fees may apply for health checks, police certificates, and translation of documents.

Key Features

  • Low government fee compared to contributory options
  • Permanent residency with full work and travel rights
  • Medicare eligibility
  • Pathway to citizenship
  • Sponsorship options for relatives

Need Help with Your Parent Visa Application?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we specialise in long-term family migration. We provide:

  • Clear guidance on sponsorship and eligibility
  • Assistance in preparing and lodging your 103 visa application
  • Support with bridging options and queue management strategies

Ready to reunite with your family in Australia?

📞 Call us on 0485 907 989 or Book a Consultation. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

Related Pages

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Parent Visa Australia services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us. 

1. How long does the 103 visa take to process?

The 103 visa is subject to a long queue and can take 10 years or more to process due to limited migration program places.

2. Can I apply for a 103 visa while I’m in Australia?

Yes, you may apply onshore, but you must be outside Australia at the time the visa is granted.

3. What is the Balance of Family Test for a 103 visa?

This test requires that at least half of your children live permanently in Australia, or more children live in Australia than in any other single country.

4. Can I work in Australia while waiting for the 103 visa?

If you’re granted a bridging visa (after onshore application), your work rights will depend on your visa conditions. Offshore applicants will not have work rights in Australia until the visa is granted.

5. Is the 103 visa the same as the contributory parent visa?

No. The 103 visa is a non-contributory parent visa with a lower fee and longer processing time. Contributory parent visas (e.g. 143 or 864) are faster but more expensive.