Overview
Subclass 103 (Parent) is the non-contributory parent visa: the affordable option whose capped queue is currently estimated in decades. For most families it functions as a placeholder while they weigh the contributory route.
Defining features:
- Low cost: first instalment ~AUD 6,600 plus a modest second instalment.
- Extremely long capped queue — set expectations in writing.
- Onshore aged-parent route (804): generally a Bridging visa A while waiting, allowing the parent to remain in Australia.
- Permanent residence at the front of the queue.
Detailed legal content (current queue estimates, assurance of support) needs verification against current rules. Book a consultation to compare 103/804 honestly against the contributory pathway.
Key eligibility
- Parent of a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen
- Pass the balance-of-family test
- An eligible sponsor + assurance of support
- Health and character requirements
Process
- 01
Confirm balance-of-family + sponsor
Same gate as the contributory route — count children and where they are settled.
- 02
Lodge 103 (offshore) or 804 (onshore, aged parent)
An onshore 804 applicant generally holds a Bridging visa A and may remain in Australia while waiting.
- 03
Wait in the capped queue
Grant comes at the front of the queue — currently estimated in decades.
Estimated cost
| Department of Home Affairs fee (per immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) | AUD 6,600 first instalment |
| VisaAffairs service fee | Quoted after initial consultation |
| Third-party costs (health, AFP check, translations, etc.) | Varies by case |
How VisaAffairs helps
Clear eligibility assessment
VisaAffairs reviews your full situation against current rules — no boilerplate templates.
Document set reviewed item-by-item
Every piece of evidence is checked before lodgement — minimising the risk of request for further information.
Case officer tracking
VisaAffairs monitors ImmiAccount and responds to case officer requests on time.