Can both parents apply for Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa together?

Yes, both parents can submit individual applications for the five-year parent visitor visa. Each must meet eligibility criteria and pay the required fee, but they can arrive in Australia at the same time or separately. For detailed steps and checklist, see the section on how to apply for the five-year parent visitor visa.

How long does it take to process the five-year parent visitor visa application?

Processing times typically range from 3 to 6 months, depending on application accuracy, documentation, and government demand. Delays may occur if papers are missing, so prepare all documents carefully.

Are parents required to leave Australia during the five-year visa period?

No, parents can stay continuously for up to five years per entry if all visa and insurance conditions are met. The visa allows multi-entry, so parents may leave and return as needed within the validity period.

Can parents extend their stay or renew the five-year parent visitor visa after expiry?

Parents may reapply for a new five-year visitor visa after the initial period, but total time allowed is capped (usually at 10 years in total). Renewals require a fresh application, sponsorship, and income checks. See renewal and extension policies for more details.

Is work permitted for parents on the five-year parent visa in Australia?

No, parents holding the five-year parent visitor visa are strictly prohibited from working in Australia. Volunteer activities may be permitted, but paid employment is not allowed.

What documents are needed for the five-year parent visitor visa application?

Applicants need a valid passport, birth/adoption certificates, proof of sponsor’s citizenship or residency, financial documents, health insurance policy, police clearance certificates, and certified translations if required. You can find a full parent visa documentation checklist here.

Does holding the five-year parent visa allow access to Medicare or public healthcare?

No, temporary parent visitors must obtain private health insurance that meets Australian standards. Medicare benefits are unavailable for holders of the five-year visitor visa.

Can parents travel out of Australia and re-enter during the visa’s validity?

Yes, the five-year parent visitor visa is multi-entry. Parents may travel internationally and return to Australia freely during their visa period without needing to reapply.

How does the security bond work for Americans and expats applying for the parent visa Australia?

Sponsors may need to provide a refundable security bond (AUD 5,000–15,000 per parent). The bond is returned after the stay if visa conditions are met and the parent leaves Australia as required.

What happens if the five-year parent visitor visa application is refused?

If refused, applicants will receive a formal letter stating reasons. Common causes include missing documents, inadequate financial proof, or health issues. In some cases, families can appeal or reapply after correcting problems.

Are there age or health limits for parents applying for Australia’s five-year visa?

There is no strict upper age limit, but all applicants must pass medical and character checks. Health issues impacting travel or long-term insurance eligibility may affect approval.

Can US citizens sponsor step-parents or parents-in-law for Australia’s five-year parent visa?

Yes, step-parents or parents-in-law can be sponsored if the relationship is officially recognized and all eligibility criteria are met, including proof of family ties and financial support.

What is the biggest difference between the five-year parent visitor visa (Subclass 870) and permanent parent visas in Australia?

The five-year parent visitor visa offers long-term visits with flexibility and no waitlist, but does not provide a pathway to permanent residency. Permanent parent visas, like subclass 143 or 804, allow PR and eventual access to Medicare but require significantly higher fees, wait times, and stricter eligibility. Use our visa comparison table to compare visa types, their obligations, and their limitations.

Can parents switch from a visitor visa to permanent residency or another visa while in Australia?

Parents cannot directly switch from the five-year visitor visa to permanent residency from within Australia. They must apply separately for permanent visas, usually while outside Australia or after meeting all eligibility for subclass 143 or 804. Follow up with the pathways to permanent residency section for more on this topic.

Australia Parent Visa 2025: 5-Year Visitor Rules & US Expat Guide

Table of Contents

Last updated: October 2025.

Australia has launched its five-year parent visa, revolutionizing the way US citizens and expat families can bring parents to Australia for long-term stays. Under the parent visa Australia program, parents of citizens and permanent residents are now allowed to visit and remain in the country for up to five years per entry, starting October 2025. This fresh approach to parent visitor visa requirements gives American families, dual US/Australian households, and international retirees an unprecedented opportunity to reunite and enjoy multi-year stays without the headache of repeat applications or short visit limits.

For US citizens sponsoring parents, as well as mixed-nationality and expat families, this update changes everything—transforming a previously complex and restrictive process into a clear, practical solution. The new parent visa unlocks more flexible options for extended family support, elderly care, and meaningful time together. Whether you’re planning for a parent’s retirement in Australia, providing ongoing support for aging relatives, or simply seeking a way to maintain family ties abroad, this visa’s streamlined requirements and generous stay periods signal lasting improvements for every stage of family migration. (Updated October 7, 2025)

What Is Australia’s Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa? (October 2025 Update)

Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa marks a transformative update in parent migration policy, offering US citizens, expat families, and Australians a clear solution for bringing parents to Australia for extended stays.

A Gamechanger for Parent Visa Australia Policy

Previously, families faced numerous restrictions: parent visas often allowed only short-term visits, with complicated application pathways, limited renewability, costly government fees, and lengthy processing times. Many routes, including the subclass 600 tourist visa and traditional parent visas, imposed harsh limits on visit duration and required frequent departures, making long-term family support nearly impossible for US sponsors and dual-national families.

With the launch of the new five-year parent visa, Australia is changing the landscape—opening the door to multi-year stays, multi-entry options, and a streamlined process tailored for modern expat lifestyles and international families.

Who Is Eligible for the Five-Year Parent Visa?

Eligibility for Australia’s five-year parent visa centers on sponsorship—parents must be sponsored by an Australian citizen or permanent resident. This applies to Americans living in Australia, dual US/AUS families, and permanent residents seeking to bring parents or elderly relatives. Parents can be of any nationality, but must meet key requirements:

Sponsorship by a citizen or permanent resident (including US citizens who have acquired residency in Australia)
Offshore application (parents must apply while outside Australia)
Good health and character (medical checks and police certificates)
No outstanding debts to the Australian government
Not previously refused or barred from Australian visas

This visa offers a practical pathway for US expat families and those with mixed citizenship, supporting both reunification and extended family care in Australia.

Key Features That Set the Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa Apart

Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa stands out for its unique benefits and improvements over previous parent visa subclasses:

Multi-Year Stay: Parents can remain in Australia for up to five years per entry, offering unprecedented continuity for family support and senior care.
Renewability: After the initial five-year period, eligible families can apply for additional stays or consider extensions, subject to sponsorship and compliance with visa rules.
Multiple Entry: The visa grants flexibility to travel in and out of Australia, accommodating holidays, emergencies, or multi-stage relocations for elderly parents.
Streamlined Application Process: Fewer administrative burdens, with clearer government requirements and support for online applications.
Distinct from Other Subclasses: Unlike subclass 600 (tourist) or 143/804 (permanent/contributory parent visas), the five-year parent visitor visa is designed for long-term visits—not permanent migration—allowing families more flexibility and less commitment to immediate residency.
Financial Support: Sponsors must demonstrate adequate income and ability to support visiting parents, with requirements geared toward practical, modern expat scenarios.

For Americans bringing parents to Australia, this new visa means greater freedom, less stress, and the ability to create lasting family connections Down Under without constantly worrying about expiring visas or complex migration systems.

Who Qualifies for the 2025 Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa?

Understanding who qualifies for Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa is essential before preparing your application. The requirements for both sponsors and parents are specific, ensuring every applicant meets the standards set by the Australian government. Below, you’ll find the sponsor criteria that US citizens, permanent residents, and expat families need to fulfill to successfully bring parents to Australia for extended stays.

Sponsor Requirements for Australia’s Parent Visa

To bring parents to Australia with the five-year parent visitor visa, the sponsor must meet specific criteria. The sponsor must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, including US citizens who have secured Australian residency. Sponsorship often extends to step-parents if the relationship is legally recognized. Crucially, sponsors must demonstrate a minimum income threshold—ensuring they can financially support their visiting parents and comply with any bond or deposit requirements set by the government. Official documents, evidence of residency, and proof of relationship (such as birth or marriage certificates) are essential during the application process.

Quick Checklist for Sponsors:

Australian citizenship or permanent resident status (including eligible US expats)
Proof of consistent income, meeting or exceeding government minimums
No outstanding legal or financial obligations to Australian authorities
Ability to provide documents confirming the parent-child relationship

Parent Eligibility Criteria

For the five-year parent visitor visa, parents must satisfy several eligibility conditions. Age is not strictly capped, but parents must be healthy enough to travel, pass medical examinations, and secure mandatory health insurance for the duration of their stay. Applications must be lodged offshore—meaning parents need to apply from outside Australia. A clean criminal record is required, typically verified through police certificates from all countries of residence. Prior visa refusals or breaches may affect eligibility, so it’s important to review history before preparing documents.

Parent Eligibility Highlights:

Must apply from outside Australia (offshore process)
Good health and character, verified by medical and police checks
Valid passport and supporting identity documentation
Compliance with prior visa rules; no immigration violations

Old vs New: Requirements for Australia’s Parent Visa Programs

Feature	Previous Parent Visa (Subclass 600, 143/804)	New Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa (Subclass 870, 2025)
Maximum Stay	12 months (tourist), 2 yrs (143/804)	5 years per entry
Sponsor Requirements	Citizenship/Residency, but lower income thresholds	Higher income requirement, stricter sponsorship checks
Application Location	Offshore or onshore (depends on subclass)	Offshore only
Health/Character Checks	Yes, but sometimes waived for shorter visits	Mandatory health and police checks
Fee Structure	Lower upfront for short-term, high for permanent	Moderate, with additional bond/deposit
Pathway to Permanent Residency	Available for 143/804 (contributory parent visas)	No, designed for long-term visit only
Multi-Entry Flexibility	Limited (re-apply for each visit)	Built in; can exit/re-enter Australia

Australia’s new parent visitor visa provides significant improvements over earlier options, empowering US citizens and expat families to keep parents close for longer while meeting streamlined, clear requirements. Families now have a practical, flexible way to stay together—without the historical barriers of short-term or restrictive migration routes.

How to Apply for Australia’s Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

This guide explains exactly how to apply for Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa, newly launched for 2025 and designed to help US citizens, expats, and permanent residents bring parents or elderly relatives for long-term stays. Follow each step to prepare the required documents, complete your online application, pay government fees, and ensure health and character checks are met. With this straightforward process, families can reunite in Australia for up to five years per entry, taking advantage of flexible sponsorship, multi-entry options, and practical immigration support.

Step 1: Confirm Sponsor Eligibility
Ensure your sponsor is an Australian citizen or a permanent resident, and verify that they meet the required income and support criteria for parent sponsorship.
Step 2: Gather Sponsor Documentation
Collect essential documents such as proof of residency, evidence of the parent-child relationship (birth or adoption certificates), and financial records including tax returns or bank statements.
Step 3: Start the Online Application
Initiate the parent visitor visa application using the Department of Home Affairs website, making certain the application is lodged while the parent is outside Australia.
Step 4: Upload Parent Identification Documents
Provide scans of the parent’s passport, identity papers, comprehensive health insurance documentation, and police clearance certificates as required by the application.
Step 5: Pay Government Fees and Bond
Submit the visa application fee and any additional bond or deposit through the secure online portal, and keep confirmation of your payment for your records.
Step 6: Complete Medical Checks and Biometrics
If instructed by authorities, arrange for the parent’s medical assessments and biometric data collection at an approved center to fulfill health and character requirements.
Step 7: Monitor Application Status
Regularly check the status of your application online and promptly provide any additional information requested by the immigration authorities.
Step 8: Prepare for Arrival After Approval
Once the visa is granted, finalize travel arrangements so your parent can enter Australia on the five-year visitor visa.

Where to Find: Subclass 870 Online Application Form

Ready to apply for Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa? Submit your application through the Australia Department of Home Affairs Parent Visa Portal for the latest requirements and official “Australian parent visa news 2025” updates.

Tip: Bookmark official pages and confirm you’re using the most current version—requirements may change as new government guidelines launch this October.

Required Documents to Apply for Parent Visa

Proof of sponsor’s citizenship or residency
Evidence of relationship (birth or adoption certificates)
Financial documents (tax returns, bank statements)
Parent’s passport and identity documentation
Comprehensive health insurance policy
Police clearance certificates
Certified translations of non-English documents

Application Processing Timelines (2025 Update)

Wondering how long it takes to receive the five-year parent visitor visa? The latest [Australian parent visa news 2025] update shows that typical processing times for Subclass 870 applications now range from 3 to 6 months—but delays may occur if supporting documents are missing or if demand surges following the October launch.

Start early to take advantage of low backlogs while new “Subclass 870 updates October” policies are active.

Application Process Tips for US Citizens and Expat Families

Submit a complete, accurate application with all required medical, police, and relationship documents to avoid delays.

Proof of Relationship: Collect official documents, including US birth certificates or notarized affidavits if other paperwork isn’t available. Joint applications with siblings require each sponsor’s proof and coordinated submission.
Translations: Ensure all non-English documents are professionally translated and certified. Inconsistent paperwork can delay approvals.
Insurance: Purchase compliant health insurance that meets Australian standards; keep policy details ready for the application.
Multiple Parent Applications: If sponsoring both parents, applications can be submitted simultaneously—be sure each has complete documentation to prevent processing delays.
Legal Advice: If your family’s situation is complex (previous visa refusals, blended families), consider consulting a registered migration agent for guidance.

Following these steps can streamline the process and improve approval chances, allowing more families to benefit from Australia’s new long-term parent visa option.

Costs, Income, and Obligations: What Americans and Expats Need to Know in 2025

Before budgeting for Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa, it’s important to understand the full scope of costs and financial responsibilities involved. The following section outlines key fees, income thresholds, and sponsor obligations that every American expat and family should consider when planning a multi-year stay for their parents in Australia.

Australia’s Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa Fees and Financial Requirements

Obtaining the five-year parent visitor visa (Subclass 870) in Australia involves several key costs and sponsor obligations. The government application fee for a five-year visa is typically AUD 11,470-12,140 per parent, payable prior to visa approval. In addition to the application fee, sponsors may face a security bond requirement ranging from *AUD 5,000 to AUD 15,000 per person, depending on individual circumstances and risk factors, with the bond refunded upon compliance with visa conditions and departure. Sponsorship also involves meeting a minimum taxable income threshold, often exceeding AUD 83,454.80 per year, to demonstrate sufficient capacity to support visiting parents during their stay.

All applicants must maintain private health insurance in Australia for the full visa duration, since access to Medicare is not typically available for temporary parent visitor visas. Insurance costs vary but generally fall between AUD 3,000 and AUD 7,000 per year for comprehensive coverage, depending on parent age and health. Additional expenses include medical exams (AUD 300–500 per person), police checks (USD 18+), and potential fees for certified document translation if paperwork is not in English.

Costs for Multiple Parents and Joint Applications

If sponsoring both parents, application fees are charged per applicant. Each parent needs a separate visa application fee, health insurance policy, and supporting documents. However, certain costs—like translation services and some travel arrangements—may be more economical when planned together. Concurrent or joint applications can streamline parts of the process, but families should budget for every individual’s visa fee, bond, and insurance.

Sample Budget: Bringing Retired Parents from the US for a Multi-Year Stay

Here’s a typical cost projection for sponsoring two retired parents from the US for five years in Australia:

Application fees: AUD 24,280 total (AUD 12,140 each)
Security bond: AUD 10,000–30,000 (AUD 5,000–15,000 per parent, refunded upon compliance)
Health insurance: AUD 30,000+ (5 years at approx. AUD 3,000 per parent/year)
Medical exams/police checks: AUD 1,600 total (AUD 400 per person)
Certified translations: AUD 200 (average for several documents)
Travel/relocation costs: Variable (flights, initial accommodation, moving expenses)
Optional legal/migration agent fees: AUD 2,000–8,000 depending on complexity

Estimated five-year total: AUD 66,000–73,000 (excluding travel and professional services).

Ongoing Obligations for Sponsors

Every sponsor must provide ongoing support—financially and with accommodation, if needed. Sponsors are also responsible for ensuring parents comply with visa conditions, maintain insurance, and avoid public health debt. Failure to meet obligations can risk visa cancellation or loss of bond refund.

By planning ahead for all costs, meeting the income threshold, and providing adequate insurance and housing, American expats and their families can confidently bring parents to Australia for long-term stays under the new five-year visa option.

How the Five-Year Parent Visa Compares to Other Australian Parent and Visitor Visas

Navigating Australia’s parent and visitor visa options can be complex, especially with recent changes to the five-year visitor visa program. The following comparison highlights the main features, costs, and eligibility differences between leading visa types, helping US expats and families choose the best path for bringing parents to Australia.

Comparison of Major Parent and Visitor Visa Options

Selecting the right visa for bringing parents to Australia depends on your goals—whether seeking short visits, long-term stays, or a pathway to permanent residency. Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa (Subclass 870) provides distinct advantages, particularly for families focused on extended reunification without immediate plans for migration. Here’s how it compares to other major options available in 2025:

Visa	Maximum Stay	Cost (Approx)	Sponsor Requirement	Main Eligibility Points	Pros	Cons
870 (Five-Year Parent Visitor)	Up to 5 years per visit	AUD 11,470–12,140 + bond/insurance	Citizen/Permanent Resident + income threshold	Offshore application, health/character checks	Long-term, flexible stays; multi-entry; streamlined process	No pathway to permanent residency; high cost per parent; insurance needed
600 (Visitor—Sponsored Family Stream)	3–12 months (single visit)	AUD 150 approx.	Australian sponsor	Simple application, health checks	Quick for short stays; low fee	Frequent reapplication; minimal stay duration
143 (Contributory Parent—Permanent)	Permanent	AUD 48,365+	Citizen/Permanent Resident	Lengthy queue, health/character checks	Direct path to PR; eventual Medicare	High upfront fee; 5–13 year wait times
804 (Aged Parent—Permanent)	Permanent	AUD 6,415 approx.	Citizen/Permanent Resident	Age 65+, onshore application, health	PR option for older parents; lower cost	Very limited slots; long queue (13+ year wait); must apply onshore

Re-Entry, Renewal, and Residency Pathways

Multi-entry and Travel: The five-year parent visitor visa permits parents to enter and leave Australia during the visa period, providing flexibility for travel, family emergencies, and non-continuous stays. There is no restriction on the number of entries, as long as visa conditions are met.

Renewal: After five years, eligible families may apply for a new parent visitor visa, though total cumulative stay is capped (usually 10 years across multiple 870 visas). Renewal is subject to reassessment of income, sponsorship, and compliance history.

Permanent Residency: Subclass 870 does not offer a direct pathway to permanent residency. Families wanting to secure PR must pursue options like the subclass 143 or 804, which are more costly and involve significant waiting periods. Temporary visa holders generally cannot “convert” their stay to permanent without leaving Australia and applying for PR separately.

Why the Five-Year Parent Visa Is Ideal for Long-Term Family Stays

For Americans and expats seeking to bring parents to Australia for significant durations, the five-year parent visitor visa fills a crucial gap—enabling family reunification, elder care, and extended visits. It is uniquely suited for those not yet ready for permanent migration, and for use as a stopgap during lengthy PR visa queues. Compared to older options, it offers more flexibility, less frequent travel disruptions, and a clear framework for supporting US and international families living in Australia.

If maximizing time together, simplifying the process, and ensuring parents can stay for multiple years with re-entry options is the goal, Australia’s five-year parent visa sets a new standard—answering one of the biggest challenges faced by expat and dual-national families.

How US Families Use the Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa: Real-Life Scenarios

Here are stories from actual expat families taking advantage of Australia’s long-term parent visitor visa for expat families:

Aging Parent Reunification: Sarah, a dual US/Australian citizen in Sydney, sponsored her 74-year-old mother for a five-year stay. The [long-term parent visitor visa for expat families] made it possible to provide daily care and emotional support without worrying about short visa limits.
Bridging the PR Waiting Period: John’s parents are stuck in a 10-year queue for permanent parent residency. The new [Subclass 870 updates October] allowed them to join family events and birthdays while waiting for their permanent visa to process.
Medical Emergency Flexibility: Maria, a US expat, faced an unexpected hospital trip for her father. Thanks to the five-year parent visitor visa, her dad was able to travel in and out of Australia for treatment and recovery, with no penalty or need to reapply.

Frequent Pitfalls When Applying: What to Watch Out For

Even with the streamlined application, families sometimes encounter these top mistakes:

Missing Documents: Forgetting to upload an original birth certificate, medical check, or certified translation slows down approval.
Incorrect Bond Payment: Sending the wrong amount or failing to provide payment confirmation can lead to application rejection.
Insufficient Health Insurance: Policies must be for the full five years and meet Australian standards—short-term coverage isn’t accepted.
Translation Errors: Non-English documents need professional, certified translations; DIY versions are routinely rejected.
Incomplete Sponsor Proof: Omission of income records or evidence of residency can trigger extra checks and delays.

Double-check your application using the practical checklist above to prevent these setbacks, and always follow the official “Subclass 870 updates October” notices.

FAQ: Australia’s Five-Year Parent Visitor Visa for US and Expat Families

This Australia parent visitor visa FAQ answers the most searched questions US citizens and expat families have about the new five-year visa option, including eligibility rules, multi-entry travel, health insurance steps, sponsor requirements, document checklists, visa renewal policies, and pathways to permanent residency. Get clear, authoritative guidance on common concerns like application timelines, bond obligations, what happens if you’re refused, and whether step-parents or parents-in-law can be included—making it easier for families to plan successful, long-term stays and reunite in Australia.

Can both parents apply for Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa together?
Yes, both parents can submit individual applications for the five-year parent visitor visa. Each must meet eligibility criteria and pay the required fee, but they can arrive in Australia at the same time or separately. For detailed steps and checklist, see the section on how to apply for the five-year parent visitor visa.
How long does it take to process the five-year parent visitor visa application?
Processing times typically range from 3 to 6 months, depending on application accuracy, documentation, and government demand. Delays may occur if papers are missing, so prepare all documents carefully.
Are parents required to leave Australia during the five-year visa period?
No, parents can stay continuously for up to five years per entry if all visa and insurance conditions are met. The visa allows multi-entry, so parents may leave and return as needed within the validity period.
Can parents extend their stay or renew the five-year parent visitor visa after expiry?
Parents may reapply for a new five-year visitor visa after the initial period, but total time allowed is capped (usually at 10 years in total). Renewals require a fresh application, sponsorship, and income checks. See renewal and extension policies for more details.
Is work permitted for parents on the five-year parent visa in Australia?
No, parents holding the five-year parent visitor visa are strictly prohibited from working in Australia. Volunteer activities may be permitted, but paid employment is not allowed.
What documents are needed for the five-year parent visitor visa application?
Applicants need a valid passport, birth/adoption certificates, proof of sponsor’s citizenship or residency, financial documents, health insurance policy, police clearance certificates, and certified translations if required. You can find a full parent visa documentation checklist here.
Does holding the five-year parent visa allow access to Medicare or public healthcare?
No, temporary parent visitors must obtain private health insurance that meets Australian standards. Medicare benefits are unavailable for holders of the five-year visitor visa.
Can parents travel out of Australia and re-enter during the visa’s validity?
Yes, the five-year parent visitor visa is multi-entry. Parents may travel internationally and return to Australia freely during their visa period without needing to reapply.
How does the security bond work for Americans and expats applying for the parent visa Australia?
Sponsors may need to provide a refundable security bond (AUD 5,000–15,000 per parent). The bond is returned after the stay if visa conditions are met and the parent leaves Australia as required.
What happens if the five-year parent visitor visa application is refused?
If refused, applicants will receive a formal letter stating reasons. Common causes include missing documents, inadequate financial proof, or health issues. In some cases, families can appeal or reapply after correcting problems.
Are there age or health limits for parents applying for Australia’s five-year visa?
There is no strict upper age limit, but all applicants must pass medical and character checks. Health issues impacting travel or long-term insurance eligibility may affect approval.
Can US citizens sponsor step-parents or parents-in-law for Australia’s five-year parent visa?
Yes, step-parents or parents-in-law can be sponsored if the relationship is officially recognized and all eligibility criteria are met, including proof of family ties and financial support.
What is the biggest difference between the five-year parent visitor visa (Subclass 870) and permanent parent visas in Australia?
The five-year parent visitor visa offers long-term visits with flexibility and no waitlist, but does not provide a pathway to permanent residency. Permanent parent visas, like subclass 143 or 804, allow PR and eventual access to Medicare but require significantly higher fees, wait times, and stricter eligibility. Use our visa comparison table to compare visa types, their obligations, and their limitations.
Can parents switch from a visitor visa to permanent residency or another visa while in Australia?
Parents cannot directly switch from the five-year visitor visa to permanent residency from within Australia. They must apply separately for permanent visas, usually while outside Australia or after meeting all eligibility for subclass 143 or 804. Follow up with the pathways to permanent residency section for more on this topic.

Resources, Official Links & Where to Get Help

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa, always start with the Department of Home Affairs official resources. Here you’ll find detailed eligibility, application instructions, fee breakdowns, and updates for subclass 870 sponsored parent visas:

If you or your parents need in-person assistance, reach out to your local US Embassy/Consulate in Australia or the Australian Embassy/Consulates in the United States. These official offices can help with travel documents, citizenship verification, and urgent support:

For a truly comprehensive resource on moving to Australia as a US expat, explore our carefully-crafted Australia Relocation Guide. Inside, you’ll find every step you need: up-to-date parent visa information, detailed walk-throughs on sponsorship and government registrations, cost breakdowns, and actionable advice for health insurance, pet import, and document preparation.

What Next: Apply Early While the Australia Parent Visa Backlog Is Still Low

With Australia’s five-year parent visitor visa now open, families have a unique opportunity to bring parents for long-term stays before demand and processing queues increase. Early applicants benefit from faster approvals and less competition for limited spots, making this the ideal time to secure a visa and plan reunification.

Last updated: October 2025. Bookmark this page for the freshest news and ongoing expert guidance for your Australia family migration journey.