Bringing Parents to Australia
As an Australian citizen, you may be curious about the possibility of bringing your parents to Australia to live with you. In this blog post, we will explore the requirements and options available for Australian citizens who wish to bring their parents to the country.
Parent Visas
If you are an Australian citizen or a permanent resident, you can apply for a Parent Visa to bring your parents to Australia. However, it's important to note that these visas can be quite expensive and have long processing times. Let's take a closer look at the different types of Parent Visas available:
- Contributory Parent Visa: This visa allows parents to live in Australia permanently. It requires a higher application fee, but it offers a faster processing time compared to other parent visas.
- Parent Visa: This visa is for parents who wish to migrate to Australia to be with their children. It has a lower application fee but can have a significantly longer processing time, sometimes up to 30 years.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Parent Visa, your parents must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
- Being the biological, adoptive, or step-parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- Having a sponsor (the Australian citizen or permanent resident child) who meets specific criteria, such as being over 18 years old and living in Australia.
- Passing the balance of family test, which requires that at least half of the parent's children live permanently in Australia, or that there are more children living permanently in Australia than in any other single country.
- Meeting health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
- Being willing to abide by Australian values and integrate into the community.
Financial Obligations
When applying for a Parent Visa, there are certain financial obligations that you, as the sponsor, must meet. These include:
- Paying a hefty application fee, which can be quite expensive depending on the type of visa chosen.
- Signing an Assurance of Support, which means you agree to provide financial support to your parents for a specific period.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bring my parents to Australia if I am not an Australian citizen?
No, as a non-citizen, you are not eligible to apply for a Parent Visa. Only Australian citizens and permanent residents can do so.
2. How long does it take for a Parent Visa application to be processed?
The processing time for Parent Visas can vary significantly depending on the type of visa chosen. Contributory Parent Visas generally have a processing time of around 18 months, while Parent Visas can take several years or even decades to be processed.
3. Can my parents work in Australia once they obtain a Parent Visa?
Yes, once your parents obtain a Parent Visa, they are granted work rights in Australia.
4. Can my parents become Australian citizens after obtaining a Parent Visa?
Yes, after living in Australia for a certain period and meeting the eligibility criteria, your parents may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship.
In conclusion, while it is possible for Australian citizens to bring their parents to the country, the process can be complex, time-consuming, and expensive. It's advisable to consult with a migration agent or seek professional advice to understand the specific requirements and options available to you.