864 Visa – Contributory Aged Parent Visa for Australia

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Visa 864

Contributory Aged Parent (Subclass 864 Visa) Australia

If you’re an older parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident, the 864 visa lets you live in Australia permanently. This aged parent visa 864 is a popular option for families who wish to reunite and enjoy long-term stability together. Notably, it offers permanent residency and access to Medicare from the start.

Unlike other parent visas with lengthy queues, the 864 parent visa requires a higher application fee but provides faster processing and direct access to essential services.

Key Features of the 864 Visa

The Contributory Aged Parent visa 864 offers several benefits, making it a preferred option for many families:

  • Permanent Residency: You can live in Australia indefinitely with full work and study rights.
  • Medicare Access: Immediate access to Australia’s public healthcare system.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: You may become eligible for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
  • Sponsor Support: Must be sponsored by an eligible child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen.

864 Visa Requirements

To qualify for the 864 visa, you must:

  • Be old enough to receive the age pension in Australia
  • Be in Australia at the time of application and decision
  • Be sponsored by an eligible child
  • Meet the Balance of Family Test (at least half your children must live lawfully in Australia)
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • Provide an Assurance of Support (financial bond)

How to Apply for the 864 Visa

The application process includes several steps. Therefore, it’s crucial to follow them carefully:

  1. Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet age, sponsorship, and family balance criteria.
  2. Gather Documents: Collect proof of relationship, identity, financial capacity, and health.
  3. Lodge the Application: Submit your application while in Australia.
  4. Provide Assurance of Support: Your sponsor must arrange a financial bond.
  5. Health & Character Checks: Complete all required assessments.
  6. Wait for a Decision: Although faster than non-contributory parent visas, the 864 visa processing time may still vary.

📌 Tip: Apply for a Bridging Visa to stay lawfully in Australia while your application is being processed.

864 Visa Processing Time

Processing times for the 864 visa can vary based on application volume and individual circumstances. Generally:

  • Expect 24 to 36 months, although times may change.
  • Submitting a complete and well-prepared application helps avoid delays.

👉 For current estimates, check the Global Visa Processing Times page.

864 Visa vs 804 Visa – Which Is Better?

Choosing between the 864 visa and the 804 visa depends largely on your priorities—namely processing time, cost, and your current financial situation.

The 864 Contributory Aged Parent Visa offers a faster processing time, often within a few years, making it ideal for parents who wish to secure permanent residency in Australia more quickly. This visa also provides access to Medicare and the ability to stay in Australia permanently. However, the government visa application charge is significantly higher, and applicants must provide an Assurance of Support.

In contrast, the 804 Aged Parent Visa is more affordable in terms of application costs. It also allows eligible parents to remain in Australia on a Bridging Visa while waiting for their application to be processed. However, the 804 visa is notoriously slow, with processing queues that can stretch over 10 years or more. For many families, the long wait time is not practical, especially when seeking timely access to health care or family support.

👉 If your family can manage the higher upfront cost, the 864 visa offers quicker reunification and stability.

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

Navigating the aged parent visa process can be complex. At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we:

  • Provide clear guidance on the best visa option for your family
  • Help with paperwork, bridging visas, and Medicare access
  • Manage Assurance of Support requirements
  • Offer affordable, fixed-fee services and fast responses

📞 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. 

How long does the 864 visa take to process?

Processing times typically range from 24 to 36 months. However, they can vary depending on application volume and individual circumstances.

Can I get Medicare on the 864 visa?

Yes. Once granted, the 864 visa provides full access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.

Do I need to be in Australia to apply for the 864 visa?

Yes. You must be physically in Australia at the time you lodge the application and when a decision is made.

What is the Balance of Family Test?

You must have at least half of your children living lawfully in Australia or more children living in Australia than any other single country.

What is an Assurance of Support (AoS)?

It’s a financial bond provided by your sponsor to show that you won’t rely on public funds. It’s a key requirement for the 864 visa.