Australia is known for its welcoming immigration policies, and for many permanent residents and citizens, reuniting with parents is a top priority. Among the options available, the Parent Visa Subclass 804 stands out for those looking for a long-term pathway to bring parents to Australia. In this article, we’ll explore what the Visa Subclass 804 is, who can apply, what the benefits and limitations are, and how it compares to other visa options.
What is Visa Subclass 804?
The Parent Visa Subclass 804 is a permanent visa which allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or specific eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia indefinitely. Unlike temporary visas, the visa offers a pathway to permanent residence, which provides most of the rights Australian citizens have, including access to medical care and other social services.
But as a condition, it must be noted that this visa is sought onshore, i.e., the applicant must be present in Australia already during application and the visa is granted.
Key Things to know about Parent Visa Subclass 804
- Permanent Residence: The occupants can settle in Australia permanently upon grant.
- Access to Medicare: Eligible to access the Australian public health scheme.
- Path to Citizenship: Once the character and residence tests are passed, the visa holders are eligible for Australian citizenship.
- Family Reunification: In favor of parents of settled child in Australia.
Who can apply for Subclass 804?
For the parent visa subclass 804, the applicant must meet a couple of requirements:
- Be in Australia on the time of application as well as grant of visa.
- Be sponsored by a suitable child who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident or suitable New Zealand citizen.
- Pass the Balance of Family Test – at least half of the applicant's children are settled in Australia lawfully and permanently, or there are a greater number of children in Australia than in some other country.
- Pass health and character tests.
- An undertaking of support – a financial pledge on the part of the sponsor that the applicant will not be dependent on government support.
Processing Time: A Long Wait Ahead
One of the biggest drawbacks of Visa Subclass 804 is waiting. Due to demand and only a certain number available each year in the parent visa stream, waiting times are extremely lengthy at times 30 years or more. That is why at times it is indeed more of a long-term strategy and not an immediate one.
During this prolonged waiting time, candidates can remain in Australia on a bridging visa with all ongoing visa conditions applying.
Costs and Fees
The parent visa subclass 804 is an investment to be made. The prevailing fee, at the time of the last update, starts from about AUD 4,990, paid in two installments—an application fee and a second payment upon approval. Secondary applicants or dependents may incur additional fees.
- Besides the visa, candidates may also be asked to present
- Medical examinations
- Police reports
Assurance of Support bond (retained for 10 years)
Why Choose Subclass 804 In Preference To Other Parent Visas?
There are various parent visas that can be obtained in Australia, for instance, Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143) or Temporary Parent Visa (subclass 870). Each one of them with their pros and cons. The peculiarity of the Visa Subclass 804 is that:
- It is more expensive upfront than contributory visas.
- It is for parents who are in Australia already.
- It offers permanent residency, unlike the temporary 870 visa.
All that aside, the longer processing time is a deciding factor. If faster visa is available and it is within one's budget, then contributory parent visa might be the better option
Bridging Visas and Medicare Access
After a suitable parent visa subclass 804 has been submitted, the applicants will generally be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA), on which they are allowed to continue residing in Australia until a decision is made. BVA holders are generally also eligible for Medicare in most cases, which will help reduce the financial burden of long-term care.
Is the 804 Visa best for you?
This visa will be appropriate for retired parents who would love to stay permanently with their children in Australia and have the luxury to wait for the lengthy processing time. It provides safety, stay for a long duration, and the ease of getting assimilated into the Australian society completely.
But do ensure that you consult an accredited migration agent or immigration solicitor. They can check on your case, help you fill in the forms, and let you know whether parent visa subclass 804 or another visa would be more appropriate for you.
Final Thoughts
The Visa Subclass 804 is a great opportunity for families to reunite once and for all in Australia. Although the long processing period is a significant hurdle, to the majority of families, being able to live together again for good is all the wait worth.
When you're ready to submit your application for the Parent Visa Subclass 804, you must be ready, financially enabled, and utilizing an expert to guide you through the process as well as it can.
Comments
0 comment