01 / The starting point
What needs to line up.
A useful assessment looks at the requirements together, in the context of your circumstances.
- Usually have a settled Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen child and an eligible sponsor.
- Meet the balance-of-family test: at least half your children are eligible, or more eligible children live in Australia than in any other single country.
- Meet health, character and Assurance of Support requirements; limited retirement-pathway exceptions apply.
A summary of key criteria, not a complete eligibility test. Stream-specific requirements and exceptions need individual assessment.
02 / Prepare with purpose
The evidence behind
your story.
- Identity and documents showing relationships to all relevant children.
- Children’s residence or citizenship evidence and sponsor details.
- Assurance of Support and further checks when requested.
Keep records accurate and consistent. Agree a secure method before sharing personal documents.
03 / Understand the stages
A clearer view of
the process.
- 01
Compare direct 143 eligibility with any applicable subclass 173 pathway.
- 02
New applications must use ImmiAccount under rules applying from 22 April 2026.
- 03
Follow queue and final-processing requests, including the required second payment instalment.
04 / Make informed decisions
Details that matter.
- Contributory does not mean immediate: demand exceeds available places.
- An existing Sponsored Parent 870 application or visa can prevent lodging a 143 application.
- Check current charges and queue guidance before making relocation or financial commitments.
05 / Plan realistically
Costs, timing
and expectations.
Understand the total
Government charges, professional fees and expenses such as assessments, tests or translations are separate. Confirm the current charges and agreed scope before committing.
Allow for uncertainty
Published processing times are indicative. Individual cases, evidence requests and programme settings can affect timing. Avoid relying on an expected decision date for irreversible plans.
Go to the source
Official information
- Home Affairs — Contributory Parent 143
- Home Affairs — Balance of family test
- Home Affairs — Parent visa queues
General information only. Check current Home Affairs requirements before acting. No invitation, visa decision or processing time is guaranteed.