What Is a Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa? A Complete Guide for Families

Reuniting with family in Australia is a dream for many. If you’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who wants to bring your parents to live with you, the detailed guide on Contributory Parent Visa 173 might be the ideal solution.

In this blog, we break down what the Subclass 173 visa is, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply—optimised for easy searchability and fast backlink potential.

What Is the Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa?

The Subclass 173 Visa allows eligible parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia temporarily for up to two years. It is the first step in a two-stage pathway toward permanent residency under the Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 143.

Unlike other parent visas, the Subclass 173 is faster to process, though it comes with a higher visa fee. It’s ideal for families looking to reunite sooner without the long queues of non-contributory visas.

Key Benefits of Subclass 173 Visa

• Live in Australia for 2 years temporarily

• Apply for the permanent Subclass 143 visa while onshore

• Access to Medicare (public healthcare) if eligible

• Freedom to travel in and out of Australia during the visa validity

• Opportunity to spend more time with children and grandchildren

Who Can Apply for Subclass 173?

To be eligible, you must:

• Be outside Australia when applying and when the visa is granted

• Be the parent of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

• Meet the Balance of Family Test (at least half your children must live in Australia)

• Have a sponsor, usually your child, who is over 18 and settled in Australia

• Meet health and character requirements

Subclass 173 Visa Cost

As of 2025, the visa cost is approximately AUD 31,980, paid in two installments. The large contribution helps reduce government healthcare and welfare costs, hence the faster processing.

Documents Required for Subclass 173 Visa

• Identity documents (passport, birth certificate)

• Proof of relationship to the sponsoring child

• Sponsor documents (citizenship, residency)

• Character and health clearance

• Evidence meeting the Balance of Family Test

Processing Time

The Subclass 173 visa generally takes 3 to 5 years to process, though this can vary based on government priorities and application completeness. However, it's still faster than non-contributory parent visa subclasses.

Pathway to Permanent Residency: Subclass 143 Visa

Once you are in Australia on a Subclass 173 visa, you can apply for the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent (Permanent) Visa. You must apply within 2 years of your Subclass 173 visa being granted.

Important Considerations

• You cannot work or study without restrictions, but you won’t have access to full social security benefits.

• This visa is not extendable—you must apply for the Subclass 143 to remain in Australia after two years.

• Health insurance is essential during your temporary stay.

Also Read- parent visa 143

Tips for a Successful Subclass 173 Application

1. Lodge a complete application with accurate documents.

2. Use an experienced migration agent or immigration lawyer to avoid delays or rejections.

3. Prepare for the Balance of Family Test early.

4. Make sure your sponsor meets all obligations.

Final Thoughts: Is the Subclass 173 Visa Right for You?

The Contributory Parent Visa Subclass 173 offers families a valuable opportunity to reunite faster than other visa streams. It’s a temporary solution that paves the way for permanent settlement, providing peace of mind and family closeness.

If you want to start your parent’s migration journey soon, this visa is worth considering.