Parent visas

• Onshore parent visas (SC 804, SC 864, SC 884)

  • These types of parent visas are most suitable for parents of eligible sponsors who wish to stay in Australia while awaiting a decision on their visa application.

  • These visa subclasses have distinct features in terms of age requirements, high visa application charges and duration of the visa.

  • Unless holder of a specific visa subclass, primary applicants must meet the balance of family test.

  • Most applicants for the permanent parent subclasses must provide an Assurance of Support (AoS).

• Offshore parent visas (SC 103, SC 143, SC 173, SC 870)

  • Under most general circumstances, these visa subclasses can only be applied and be granted from offshore.

  • These visa subclasses have distinct features in terms of no age requirements, lower visa application charges and duration of the visa.

  • Except for the SC 870 visa, most primary applicants must meet the balance of family test.

  • Except for the SC 870 visa, most applicants for permanent parent visa subclasses must provide an Assurance of Support (AoS).

  • Prospective sponsors for the SC 870 visa must apply to become an approved parent sponsor prior to applying for the visa. The criteria for approval as a parent sponsor involves meeting specific income and partner requirements.