870 Visa – Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa Australia

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870 Visa

870 Visa – Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa Australia

If you’re looking for a way to spend more time with your parents in Australia without a long wait or permanent visa commitment, the 870 visa may be the right choice. This Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa allows eligible parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to stay in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years—without needing to depart during that period.

Unlike other parent visa options, the 870 visa offers a faster and more flexible pathway for families who want more quality time together. Furthermore, it doesn’t require a balance of family test or a migration medical services contribution upfront, making it more accessible for many families.

What Is the 870 Visa?

The Subclass 870 visa is a temporary visa designed for parents who wish to visit their children and grandchildren in Australia for an extended period. It allows for:

  • Up to 3 or 5 years stay in Australia per visa
  • No work rights
  • Multiple entries while the visa is valid
  • The ability to reapply for a maximum 10-year cumulative stay

Importantly, this visa does not lead to permanent residency, but it fills a vital gap for families awaiting permanent parent visa options or unable to meet other requirements.

Who Can Sponsor a Parent for the 870 Visa?

To sponsor a parent for the 870 parent visa, the child must:

  • Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
  • Have lived in Australia for at least 4 years
  • Meet minimum household income requirements
  • Not have any outstanding public health debts
  • Be approved as a Sponsor by the Department of Home Affairs

Once sponsorship is approved (which may take 2–4 months), your parent can apply for the visa. Each parent must lodge their own visa application.

Can We Apply for the 870 Visa Onshore?

In most cases, the 870 visa must be applied for offshore. That means your parent must be outside Australia when they apply and when the visa is granted.

However, there are exceptions in place (such as for COVID-19 periods), and conditions may change, so it’s essential to get current advice before lodging.

Key Requirements for the 870 Visa Australia

Here are the main eligibility criteria for the visa applicant:

  • Must be the biological, adoptive, or step-parent of the sponsor
  • Must be outside Australia at the time of application and grant
  • Must have approved sponsorship
  • Must hold adequate health insurance
  • Must meet health and character requirements
  • Cannot owe debts to the Australian government

Additionally, the sponsor must provide financial support and agree to certain obligations, including covering any healthcare or accommodation needs of the parent during their stay.

Cost of the Subclass 870 Visa

The cost of the 870 visa depends on the duration of stay:

  • 3-Year Visa: AUD $5,895 
  • 5-Year Visa: AUD $11,785

870 Visa Processing Time

Processing times vary based on demand, document completeness, and sponsorship approval. On average:

  • Sponsorship approval: 2–4 months
  • Visa application: 4–6 months after sponsorship approval

We recommend early planning to avoid delays, especially if your parent wishes to travel on a specific date.

Why Choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we provide clear, compassionate, and strategic guidance for all parent visa types—including the 870 visa. We can:

  • Assess your family’s eligibility for sponsorship and visa
  • Help prepare and lodge the sponsorship and visa applications
  • Ensure health and financial requirements are met
  • Guide you through bridging strategies if waiting for permanent visas

Whether you’re applying for the 870 visa Australia, exploring your options, or unsure if you can apply onshore, we’re here to help.

📞 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 870 visa in Australia?

The 870 visa allows parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Australia temporarily for 3 or 5 years without a balance of family test.

2. Can I apply for the 870 visa while in Australia?

Generally, you must apply offshore. Your parent must be outside Australia both at the time of application and visa grant.

3. Is the 870 visa a permanent visa?

No, it is a temporary visa. However, parents can apply for it more than once, with a maximum cumulative stay of 10 years.

4. How long does the 870 visa take to process?

Sponsorship approval typically takes 2–4 months, and the visa application process can take another 4–6 months.

5. Do I need to show income to sponsor my parent?

Yes. The sponsoring child must meet a minimum household income threshold and agree to financial obligations under the sponsorship.