Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)

The Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa is a permanent residency visa available to parents who have children settled in Australia. These children must be either Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who have lived in Australia for a minimum of two years.

Who can sponsor on the subclass 143 visa?
To be eligible, the parent must be sponsored by their child or the child’s partner. The sponsor needs to be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen who has been residing in Australia for at least two years. In special situations, a community organisation may act as the sponsor. Sponsors are also required to meet specific eligibility conditions, including character requirements.

What is the balance of family test?
This test determines if you have more children living permanently in Australia than in any other single country. To meet the requirement, at least half of your children must reside in Australia as permanent residents or citizens. The assessment also includes step-children and adopted children. If you’re applying with a partner, their children from previous relationships are also considered. Many applicants find this requirement challenging, so it’s often helpful to consult an expert to assess eligibility.

What is the contributory parent visa fee?
The visa requires a substantial fee, currently set at $43,600, which is payable just before the visa is granted—after health and character checks are cleared. Due to the high cost, some people choose to apply for the temporary Subclass 173 visa first to distribute the payment over time. This approach involves an initial payment of $29,130 before receiving the 173 visa, followed by another $19,420 before the 143 visa is granted later. Though it eases the financial burden initially, the total cost ends up being higher.

What is an assurance of support?
An assurance of support is a formal commitment made by a person—usually the sponsoring child or their partner—to financially assist the visa holder if needed after the visa is granted. This helps ensure the applicant doesn’t rely on government welfare during a certain period.

Retiree applicants
Applicants who previously held a Subclass 405 (Investor Retirement) or Subclass 410 (Retirement) visa before 8 May 2018 may qualify under special provisions. These retirees are not required to provide a sponsor or an assurance of support and are also exempt from the balance of family test.

Can contributory parent visa holders work?
Yes, holders of the 143 visa can work and study in Australia without restrictions once the visa is granted.

Can contributory parent visa holders obtain Australian citizenship?
Yes. Since this is a permanent residency visa, holders are eligible to apply for Australian citizenship once they meet the residency and other applicable criteria.

Do 143 visa holders get Medicare?
Yes, once the visa is approved, you can register for and access services under the Medicare system.

Can I apply for a 143 visa in Australia?
Yes, you can apply either inside or outside Australia. However, applying onshore does not come with a bridging visa. This means you’ll need to ensure your current visa remains valid throughout the processing period if you’re in Australia at the time of application.