Contributary Parent Visa (173/143)

Your New Life in Australia Starts Here

The Contributory Parent visa differs from other parent visa options as it requires a higher financial contribution during the application process. However, it offers the advantage of faster processing times, allowing you to reunite with your family sooner.

The complexities involved with this visa type often benefit from the oversight of an experienced migration lawyer to help manage expectations and ensure a smooth process. At Expert Migration Lawyer, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

What is the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 173/143)?

If you are a parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible for the Contributory Parent visa.

This visa is available in two subclasses:

Subclass 173: A temporary visa that allows you to live in Australia for up to 2 years.
Subclass 143: A permanent visa that grants you indefinite residency in Australia.

There are two stages in the process: first, the subclass 173 visa (temporary), and then the subclass 143 visa (permanent).

Eligibility Requirements:

Sponsor Requirements

An eligible sponsor must:

Be at least 18 years old.
Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia.
Provide accommodation and financial support to the applicant for the first two years in Australia.

Applicant Requirements

To apply, you must:

Be sponsored by an eligible sponsor.
Not have applied for or hold a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 870).
Meet the balance of family test (have more children living permanently in Australia than in any other country).

Benefits of a Contributory Parent Visa

The Contributory Parent visa offers the opportunity to live with your children in Australia while accessing various benefits.

Subclass 173 Visa Holders (Temporary)

Work without restrictions and receive at least the minimum wage under Australian law.
Study without restrictions.
Travel in and out of Australia freely for 2 years.

Subclass 143 Visa Holders (Permanent)

Work and study in Australia without restrictions.
Travel to and from Australia for 5 years.
Apply for Australian citizenship once eligible.
Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system.
Sponsor family members to migrate to Australia under relevant visa programs.

How the Contributory Parent Visas Work

Stage 1: Temporary Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 173)

Applicants begin with the subclass 173 visa.
This visa allows parents to live temporarily in Australia for up to 2 years.
A temporary concession introduced in March 2021 permits eligible Parent visa applicants to have their visas granted while in Australia.

Stage 2: Permanent Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)

Once granted a subclass 173 visa, parents may apply for the permanent subclass 143 visa.
Applicants can be either in or outside Australia when applying for the subclass 143 visa.
This visa grants permanent residency in Australia.

At Expert Migration Lawyer, we’re here to assist you at every stage of your journey. Contact us today for expert guidance and to improve your chances of a successful application.

Future Visa Pathways

Once you are granted the Subclass 143 visa, you become an Australian permanent resident with access to various benefits, including healthcare and international travel.

Remaining a Permanent Resident

You can travel internationally for up to 5 years with a travel facility included in the subclass 143 visa.
To continue traveling internationally after the initial 5 years, you will need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (subclass 155), which must be renewed every 5 years.

Becoming an Australian Citizen

Becoming a citizen offers additional advantages:

Consular Support: Access to Australian consular services while overseas.
Visa-Free Travel: Travel visa-free to over 100 countries with an Australian passport.
Government Employment: Eligibility for Australian public sector jobs.
Visa Security: Freedom from visa cancellations or renewal requirements.

Why Choose Expert Migration Lawyer?

At Expert Migration Lawyer, we understand the emotional and logistical challenges of applying for a Contributory Parent visa. Our dedicated team of experienced lawyers works to make the process as seamless as possible.

How We Help

Comprehensive Legal Advice: We assess your eligibility and explore all migration options to determine the best strategy for your application.
Expert Application Preparation: We help you prepare a complete and accurate application, addressing any additional requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
Client Satisfaction Guarantee: We are committed to ensuring you receive high-quality service and support throughout the process.

Visa Processing Times

Currently, both subclass 173 and subclass 143 visas have a minimum processing time of 12 years, due to high demand exceeding available visa places.

Factors Affecting Processing Times

Completeness of the Application: Errors or missing documents can delay processing.
Verification Time: Delays in verifying your information can impact the timeline.
Complexity of the Case: More complex cases may require additional assessment.

Assessment Stages

Initial Assessment: The Department checks your eligibility and either queues or refuses your application.
Final Decision: Once your application reaches the front of the queue and a place becomes available, the Department completes its assessment and makes a decision.

Considerations

While we work diligently to provide the best legal support, please note that visa approval is not guaranteed, as final decisions are made at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs.

At Expert Migration Lawyer, we offer:

Free Initial Consultations: Most consultations are free, with recurring services offered at fixed fees discussed upfront.
Online Consultations: Speak with us from anywhere in Australia via secure online consultations.
Comprehensive Assistance: Whether you’re just starting or midway through the process, we are here to help.

Contact Expert Migration Lawyer today to begin your journey toward reuniting with your family in Australia.

How Expert Migration Lawyer Can Help You

At Expert Migration Lawyer, we understand the sensitive and challenging nature of family violence cases. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and professional legal assistance to ensure your safety and support your visa application process.

Here’s how we can help you:

1. Confidential and Secure Guidance

We prioritize your safety and confidentiality throughout the process. Our team handles your case with the utmost discretion, ensuring that your information remains secure.

2. Tailored Migration Advice

Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand your specific situation. Our migration lawyers provide personalized advice to help you identify the most suitable visa options based on your circumstances.

3. Comprehensive Documentation Support

We assist you in collecting and organizing the necessary evidence and documents to strengthen your family violence claim. This includes police reports, medical records, and affidavits from witnesses or support services.

4. Preparation of Submissions

Our team prepares detailed submissions to the Department of Home Affairs, clearly explaining your experiences and circumstances to support your claim effectively.

5. Advocacy and Representation

We act as your representative, ensuring that all communication with the Department of Home Affairs is handled professionally. Our team is experienced in responding to requests for additional information and addressing any concerns raised by the Department.

6. Alternative Visa Pathways

If you are not eligible for a permanent Partner visa after a relationship breakdown, we explore alternative visa pathways for you and your family. This includes evaluating your eligibility for other types of visas that align with your goals and circumstances.

7. Ongoing Support

From start to finish, we stand by your side. Our goal is to provide you with clarity, confidence, and expert guidance throughout the process, helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.