Are you planning to bring your parents to Australia on a temporary basis? Parent Visa Visa subclass 173 can be the right solution for you. This visa allows Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible parents of New Zealand citizens to stay temporarily for two years.This is an important first step for renovation families in Australia.
In this article, we will find out all the things that you need to know about the parents’ visa 173 of the parents, in which the eligibility requirements, processing time, cost, profit and how it differs from other original visa types.
What is Parent Visa Subclass 173?
The contributor parents visa subclass 173 allows the parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or New Zealand citizens to live in Australia for 2 years.
During this period, visa holders can live in Australia, study and work.This visa is considered a temporary visa, and it is often used as a path to contribute to parents (permanent) visa subclass 143.
Key Features of Parent Visa 173
Feature Description
Type Temporary Visa
Duration Up to 2 years
Work Rights Yes
Study Rights Yes (self-funded)
Medicare No access to Medicare
Pathway to Permanent Yes, via Subclass 143
Location at Time of Application Can be in or outside Australia
Processing Time Varies, currently 4–6 years approx.
Parent Visa 173 Eligibility Criteria
To apply for Parent Visa subclass 173, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Qualified sponsor
A settled Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible should be sponsored by a New Zealand citizen.
The sponsor must be more than 18 years old and usually lives in Australia.
2. Balance of family testing
At least 50% of the applicant’s children should live as citizens or permanent residents in Australia, or
More children should live in Australia than any other single country.
3. Health and Character Requirements
All applicants must meet the Australian government’s health and character standards.
4. No Outstanding Debts
Applicants must have no outstanding debts to the Australian government, or they must have arranged to repay them.
Parent Visa 173 Cost (as of 2025)
The Parent Visa 173 involves a substantial financial commitment.
Visa Stage Fee (AUD)
Base Application Charge $32,000 approx.
Additional Charges for Each Family Member $2,500 – $3,000
Second Installment Not applicable at this stage
Note: Prices are subject to change. Always check the official Home Affairs website for the latest fees.
Processing Time for Parent Visa 173
The processing time for parent visa 173 is about 4 to 6 years, depending on:
Number of applications in queue
Completion of your application
Need any additional documents or health check -up
Tip: To avoid delay, submit all the necessary documents and health check -up quickly.
Pathway to Permanent Residency – Subclass 143
Many people use subclass 173 as a step stone for subclass 143 (contributing parent visa – permanent).
Here is how the route works:
Apply for parent visa 173 (temporary)
Live in Australia for 2 years
Apply for Parent Visa 143 before the end of 173
This route allows families to spread high costs over time, instead of paying outright.
Documents Required for Parent Visa 173
Here is usually a list of necessary documents:
Document type examples
Identification proof passport, birth certificate
Sponsoring citizenship or residence, evidence of financial documents
Relationship proof children’s birth certificate, family photos
Health and Character Medical Examination, Police Equitable Certificate
Financial documents proof of income or savings
All documents should be certified and translated into English if they are in another language.
Parent Visa 173 vs Other Parent Visas
Feature Subclass 173 Subclass 143 Subclass 804
Type Temporary Permanent Permanent
Stay Duration 2 years Indefinite Indefinite
Cost Lower upfront Higher upfront Lower overall
Processing Time 4–6 years Additional time after 173 25+ years
Medicare Access No Yes Yes
Conclusion: Subclass 173 offers a faster route with manageable payments, compared to the much longer wait for non-contributory options like Subclass 804.
Important Points to Remember
Until you apply for Subclass 143, you cannot apply for another temporary original visa after the subclass 173 is finished.
Parent Visa does not provide 173 Medicare access – you should consider private health insurance.
During the decision process you should stay outside Australia until you have a valid bizing visa.
How to Apply for Parent Visa 173
Gather Required Documents
Find a Sponsor
Lodge Your Application Online at the Home Affairs website
Undergo Medical Exams & Police Checks
Wait for Decision
After the visa is granted, you can travel to Australia and begin your temporary stay.
Final Thoughts
Parents Visa Subclass 173 is a practical option for families wishing to reunite in Australia without affecting the higher advance costs of permanent visa. This subcontinent provides a clear passage for permanent residence through 143 and allows parents to live, work and study in Australia for two years.
However, the process can be long and expensive, so careful planning and professional guidance are recommended.
