Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) – Settle in Australia with Your Family

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Parent Visa 804

Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) – Settle in Australia with Your Family

The 804 visa—also known as the Aged Parent Visa Subclass 804—offers a pathway for aged parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. Unlike other parent visas, this visa is lodged onshore and allows eligible applicants to remain in Australia on a Bridging Visa while their application is processed.

Although the 804 aged parent visa has a long processing time, it remains a popular option due to its affordability and the ability to stay lawfully in Australia during the wait. Furthermore, this visa offers the potential for access to Medicare, family reunification, and stability for older parents.

What Is the 804 Visa?

The Aged Parent Visa Subclass 804 is designed for aged parents who are already in Australia and meet the age requirement for the Age Pension. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be sponsored by an eligible child who lives in Australia
  • Meet the Balance of Family Test
  • Satisfy health and character requirements
  • Be old enough to qualify for the Age Pension in Australia

Moreover, once you lodge the application, you may be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or Bridging Visa B (BVB) to remain in Australia lawfully.

804 Visa Processing Time

Due to high demand and strict caps on the number of visas granted each year, the 804 visa processing time can exceed 20+ years. Consequently, applicants must be prepared for a lengthy wait.

Nevertheless, many families choose this visa because the applicant can stay in Australia while waiting in the 804 visa queue. You can track your position using an aged parent visa 804 queue calculator, though these are unofficial and should be used as a rough guide only.

Key Features of the Aged Parent Visa 804

  • Permanent residency for parents already in Australia
  • Right to live, study, and work in Australia indefinitely
  • Possible access to Medicare after obtaining a Bridging Visa with work and study rights
  • Sponsorship by a child who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • Travel rights once the visa is granted

Importantly, you may be eligible for Bridging Visa B if you need to travel while waiting for a decision. Furthermore, certain Medicare benefits may be available during the bridging period, depending on your status.

How to Apply for the Aged Parent Visa 804

Follow these essential steps to apply:

  1. Check Your Eligibility – Confirm your age, relationship, and residency status.
  2. Meet the Balance of Family Test – At least half of your children must be Australian citizens or permanent residents.
  3. Prepare and Lodge Your Application – Submit your visa application while you are in Australia.
  4. Receive a Bridging Visa – This lets you stay lawfully in Australia during the processing period.
  5. Undergo Health and Character Checks – Complete the required medical exams and police certificates.

Considerations and Alternatives

While the 804 visa is low-cost, the processing time is extremely long. As such, applicants may consider alternatives like:

  • Contributory Parent Visas (Subclass 864/884) – Faster but higher cost
  • Temporary Parent Visa (Subclass 870) – Short-term stay option for parents
  • Offshore Parent Visas (Subclass 103) – Also subject to long processing times

Before applying, we recommend seeking professional advice to assess your situation and compare all available visa options.

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we understand the complexity of long-term parent visa applications. We:

  • Help you prepare strong applications that meet all legal requirements
  • Assist with Bridging Visa and Medicare access during the wait
  • Advise on queue positions and long-term strategy
  • Offer fixed-fee services with clear communication

📞 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. What is the 804 Aged Parent Visa?

The 804 visa allows aged parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live permanently in Australia. Applicants must be onshore and meet age and sponsorship requirements.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the 804 visa?

You must be of pension age, sponsored by an eligible child who is settled in Australia, and meet the balance of family test.

3. How long does the 804 visa take to process?

Due to the limited number of places and long queue, processing may take over 13 years. A Bridging Visa may be granted while you wait.

4. Can I access Medicare while waiting for the 804 visa?

Yes, once you hold a Bridging Visa A or B linked to your 804 visa application, you may be eligible for Medicare under certain conditions.

5. Can I travel while waiting for my 804 visa to be processed?

You can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to travel temporarily. It is important to return before your BVB expires to maintain your lawful status.