Family & Parent Visas

Parent and Family Visa Lawyer in Melbourne

Keeping generations together, with a plan that fits your family.

For many families, building a life in Australia is not complete until loved ones can join them. Whether you want to bring your parents, your children or other relatives to Australia, family visas can provide a pathway. However, the rules, costs and waiting times vary widely between options, and a well-chosen strategy can make years of difference.

As a family firm ourselves, we understand what is at stake. Our immigration team includes two Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, and we advise in English, Mandarin and Cantonese. That means we can speak directly with every generation of your family.

Bringing your partner to Australia? See our Partner Visas page (opens in new tab).

Australian parent visa options

Australia offers several pathways for parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens.

Contributory parent visas (subclasses 143, 173, 864 and 884)

Permanent or temporary-to-permanent visas with a higher government charge and a much shorter processing time than non-contributory options.

Non-contributory parent visas (subclasses 103 and 804)

A lower-cost option, but with very long waiting periods.

Aged parent visas

For parents who meet the age requirement and apply while in Australia, with both contributory and non-contributory options.

Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 870)

Allows parents to visit for extended stays without needing to meet the balance of family test.

Balance of family test and assurance of support

Most permanent parent visas require the family to meet the balance of family test and provide an assurance of support. We advise on which option best fits your family's priorities, whether that is timing, cost, the right to work, or access to healthcare. We also help you prepare the sponsorship and supporting evidence.

Child and other family visas

We also advise on:

•         Child visas, including for dependent and adopted children

•         Carer visas, for relatives who need to care for a family member with a long-term medical condition

•         Aged dependent relative and remaining relative visas

How our family visa lawyers can help

Compare your options

We explain each pathway's costs, processing times and requirements, so your family can make an informed decision.

Plan for the long term

We consider how today's visa fits with your family's future, including permanent residence and Australian citizenship.

Prepare a complete application

We help you gather and organise the evidence, prepare statements and submissions, and lodge an application ready for decision.

Manage complications

Where there are previous refusals, health issues or character concerns, we advise on how to address them, including health waivers where available.

Review and appeals

If an application is refused, we advise on review at the Administrative Review Tribunal and other options.

Beyond the family visa

Bringing family members to Australia often raises wider questions, such as buying a family home, updating Wills, planning for elderly parents, and arranging assets held overseas. Our lawyers can advise on property, Wills, powers of attorney and cross-border estate planning, so your family's migration and wider affairs are managed together.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between contributory and non-contributory parent visas?

Contributory parent visas have a much higher government charge but are generally processed far faster. Non-contributory parent visas cost less but involve very long waiting periods.

What is the balance of family test?

It requires that at least half of the parent's children live permanently in Australia, or that more of the children live in Australia than in any other single country. Most permanent parent visas require it.

Can my parents visit for long periods without a permanent visa?

Yes. The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa allows extended stays and does not require the balance of family test.

Can you advise my parents in Chinese?

Yes. Our lawyers advise in English, Mandarin and Cantonese, so we can speak directly with every generation of your family.

Get started with your family visa

Contact us to discuss your family's situation, or order an Immigration Strategy Report for a clear written plan comparing your options.

This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Visa requirements, costs and processing times change regularly, and every family's situation is different.