Sponsored Parent (Temporary) (870)

This visa allows parents to live temporarily in Australia for three or five years without needing to depart the country.

Unlike other parent visas, the 870 visa does not require the parent to meet the 'balance of family' test. However, the parent must have a child (biological, adoptive or step) who holds Australian citizenship or permanent residency, or is an eligible NZ citizen).

The child must first be approved as a sponsor prior to the parent being able to lodge a 870 visa. The sponsoring child will need to provide police checks and demonstrate minimum household income.

As the 870 visa does not have work rights, the parents must show that they have sufficient funds to support themselves for the duration of the stay period.

Eligible parents can stay in Australia for a maximum of 10 years on this visa, however this visa does not lead to Australian permanent residency. There are no age requirements for the parents.

The visitor visa concession that allows parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Australia for longer periods will not be available.