864 Visa (Contributory Aged Parent Visa): A Pathway to Reuniting Families in Australia

Family is everything, and being close to your loved ones can make all the difference as parents grow older. The 864 Visa (Contributory Aged Parent Visa) provides a way for aging parents to live permanently in Australia with their children, ensuring they receive the support and care they deserve. At IME Advisors, we understand the importance of this process, and as experienced parent visa migration agents, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Who Can Apply for the 864 Visa?

For parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens seeking to settle in Australia, the 864 Visa is available, subject to meeting the below-mentioned eligibility requirements:

• Applicants are required to have a child who holds settled status as an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
• Pass the balance of family test, meaning at least half of their children must live permanently in Australia.
• You must be in Australia when you apply and when the visa is granted.
• Applicants must fulfill the health and character requirements stipulated by the Australian Government.
• Be of retirement age as defined by Australian law.

This visa allows parents to live in Australia indefinitely, access healthcare benefits, and eventually apply for citizenship. However, it does require a substantial financial commitment, which we explain below.

Understanding the Costs and Financial Commitments

Applying for the 864 Visa involves significant costs, including visa fees and financial support commitments. If you need guidance on handling these expenses, a Parent visa agent in Sydney from IME Advisors can help.

Visa Fees and Contributory Payment

The government visa fee is AUD 48,495 (as of February 2025). This amount is payable in two instalments:

• The first payment is made when applying.
• The second and final payment is due before the visa is granted.

These payments help offset the costs of permanent residency benefits, making the process quicker than other parent visa options.

Assurance of Support

To ensure new residents do not rely on government financial assistance, an Assurance of Support (AoS) is required. This involves:

• A financial commitment from a sponsor (usually the applicant’s child).
• A bond deposit, held for ten years as a safeguard.
• Proof that the sponsor can provide financial help if needed.

IME Advisors can assist in preparing this documentation, ensuring your application meets all financial requirements.

864 Visa Application Process: What You Need to Know

Applying for the 864 Visa requires careful preparation, as missing details can cause delays. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Eligibility Check and Sponsorship

Before applying, it’s crucial to confirm eligibility and secure a sponsor. The sponsor must be an eligible child who is settled in Australia. Our parent visa migration agents can help assess eligibility and gather the necessary documents.

Step 2: Submitting the Application

Unlike other visas, the 864 Visa application must be submitted in paper form with the required documents, including:

• Identity papers (passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate if applicable).
• Proof of relationship with the sponsor.
• Police clearance certificates from every country lived in for over 12 months in the past decade.
• Health check results from a government-approved panel doctor.

Step 3: Waiting for a Decision

Processing times vary depending on the number of applications in the queue. It can take several months to years. While waiting, applicants must remain in Australia. A Parent visa agent in Sydney can help ensure the application is complete, reducing unnecessary delays.

What Happens After the 864 Visa is Granted?

Once granted, the 864 Visa provides parents with numerous benefits:

• Permanent residency: Reside, work, and study in Australia without time limits.
• Access to Medicare: Receive government-subsidised healthcare and prescriptions.
• Freedom to travel: Travel freely in and out of Australia for the first five years.
• Pathway to citizenship: After four years of living in Australia, including at least one year as a permanent resident, visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship.

Becoming a citizen means gaining full rights, including voting and obtaining an Australian passport. Our team at IME Advisors can guide you through this transition.

Why Work With IME Advisors?

Applying for a visa can be overwhelming, but having an experienced parent visa migration agent by your side makes the process smoother. At IME Advisors, we:

• Provide step-by-step support, from application to visa grant.
• Help with paperwork, ensuring all documents meet requirements.
• Assist with financial obligations, including the Assurance of Support.
• Offer personalised advice to increase your chances of approval.

If you’re considering the 864 Visa, reach out to our expert Parent visa agent in Sydney today. We’re here to help you bring your family together in Australia.