The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870 was introduced in 2019 and has quickly become one of the most popular temporary visa options for parents. This visa offers a faster processing time, which can be beneficial for many families. It offers a formal, temporary way for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to spend long periods with their children and grandchildren in Australia.
Key Distinctions of the 870 Visa
- Firstly, this is a temporary visa which does not provide a path to permanent residence.
- Secondly, this visa does not have work rights, meaning it does not allow work of any kind to be undertaken while holding this visa.
- Thirdly, no family member can be included in this visa application, meaning each parent must apply for their visa separately. However, the Sponsorship application can include both parents.
- Further, the visa can be granted for up to 3 or 5 years with a maximum stay in Australia of 10 years, and cannot be extended.
It is also important to note that Subclass 870 visa holders cannot use Medicare, which is Australia’s public healthcare. This means they must buy and continuously keep Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for the entire time the visa is valid.
Does It Require the Balance of Family Test?
Unlike other Parent visa programs, the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870 does not require the Balance of Family Test (BOFT). The BOFT is mandatory for permanent visas, like the Parent Subclass 103 or Contributory Parent Subclass 143/864. This test looks at the parent’s family connections to Australia, and many families with children living across the world find it difficult to pass the BOFT. By removing this requirement, the Subclass 870 visa provides a temporary way for families to reunite, where previously families may have relied on the Visitor visa.
Visa Duration, Renewal, and the Maximum 10-Year Stay Rule
The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870 can be a beneficial visa option for families who are not eligible for a more permanent parent visa. It is more flexible and provides an extended stay in Australia, enabling parents to spend valuable time with their children and grandchildren.
The Subclass 870 visa gives you a choice of staying for up to three years or up to five years. This flexibility means families can choose the length of stay that works best for their budget and family needs.
While the visa is valid, parents can travel in and out of Australia many times without needing to apply for a new Visitor Visa constantly. The total time a parent can hold this visa is capped at 10 years. This 10-year total includes the length of all Subclass 870 visas the parent has ever held. Parents who reach this point must either leave Australia for good or apply for a different visa that lets them stay longer.
What Are The Requirements for the Approved Parent Sponsor?
The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870 requires Sponsorship from a child (or a child’s partner) who must be at least 18 years of age, an Australian citizen, an Australian permanent resident or an eligible New Zealand citizen who meets the visa residence requirement.
The sponsor must pass the income test in the most recent financial year before applying for sponsorship.
How Elena K Lawyers Can Assist You
The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870 must be lodged in a prescribed manner within the specified timeframe. At Elena K Lawyers, we specialise in Family migration and have successfully assisted many clients in obtaining this visa, and we are happy to assist you as well. Please contact us today for a confidential consultation and tailored advice on your Family visa matter.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general guidance only and is accurate at the time of publication. Australian immigration laws and policies can change without notice. This information does not constitute legal advice. For advice tailored to your specific circumstances, please contact Elena K Lawyers today.