Contributory Parent Visas: What You Need to Know Before You Apply

If you’re a parent of an Australian citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a Contributory Parent Visa. This type of visa is designed to allow parents to live in Australia permanently and reunite with their family members.

Before you apply for a Contributory Parent Visa, there are several important things you need to know. In this blog, we’ll discuss the eligibility requirements, the application process, and the benefits of this visa.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a Contributory Parent Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a child who is an Australian and Canadian citizen, permanent resident.
• Be sponsored by your child or spouse.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Meet the health and character requirements.
• Meet the balance of family test,  which means that half of your children must live in Australia or more of your children live in  Australia than in any other country.
• Be worldly-wise to pay the visa using the fee and the second installment of the visa costs.
• Be able to provide evidence of your financial ability to support yourself in Australia.

Application Process

The application process for a Contributory Parent Visa can be lengthy and complex. Here are the basic steps involved:

1. Check your eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements.
2. Get sponsored: You’ll need to have your child or spouse sponsor you. They’ll need to complete and submit a sponsorship form.
3. Gather documents: You’ll need to provide a range of documents to support your application, including proof of identity, health and character certificates, and evidence of financial support.
4. Lodge your application: Once you have all the necessary documents, you can lodge your application online or by mail.
5. Wait for a decision: The processing time for a Contributory Parent Visa can vary, but it’s typically several months. During this time, you may be asked to provide spare information or shepherd an interview.
6. Pay the visa costs: If your application is approved, you’ll need to pay the visa application fee and the second installment of the visa costs.

Benefits of a Contributory Parent Visa

1. Permanent residency: This visa allows you to work and live in Australia permanently.
2. Reunite with family: You’ll be able to reunite with your family members in Australia.
3. Access to healthcare and education: You’ll have access to Australia’s public healthcare and education systems.
4. Travel: You’ll be able to travel in and out of Australia as often as you like.
5. Pathway to citizenship: After holding a Contributory Parents Visa for a certain period of time, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
6. No work restrictions: There are no restrictions on the type of work you can do while holding this visa.

Conclusion

Applying for a Contributory Parent Visa can be a complex process, but it’s worth it if you want to live in Australia permanently and reunite with your family members. Before applying, ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements and have all the necessary documents. If you need help with your application, consider consulting an immigration lawyer or registered migration agent.