Parent Visa Applications Move Online: What Families Need to Know
Updated: Oct 14
Practical update - 12 October 2026: Home Affairs confirms that new Parent visa applications for subclasses 103, 143, 804 and 864 must be lodged online through ImmiAccount from 22 April 2026. Temporary Contributory Parent applications (subclasses 173 and 884) continue to be lodged on paper. Online lodgement does not eliminate balance-of-family, sponsorship, health or character requirements, or the long queue for permanent Parent visas.
Applying for an Australian Parent visa has traditionally involved preparing and lodging a substantial paper application. However, Home Affairs has now moved several permanent Parent visa subclasses to online lodgement through ImmiAccount. This change affects how new applications are submitted, how supporting documents are uploaded, and how correspondence is managed. It's important to note that not every Parent visa subclass has transitioned to online submission.
Which Parent Visa Applications Must Now Be Lodged Online?
The Department of Home Affairs now requires applications for the following subclasses to be lodged through ImmiAccount:
Parent visa (subclass 103)
Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143)
Aged Parent visa (subclass 804)
Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864)
If you are preparing a new application for one of these subclasses, follow the current online process. Do not rely on older paper forms or outdated application guides.
Which Parent Visas Still Require a Paper Application?
The following temporary Contributory Parent visa applications must still be lodged on paper:
Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173)
Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 884)
This distinction is crucial. Using the wrong lodgement method can create serious problems, including the possibility that your application is not validly lodged. Always check the current Home Affairs instructions for your specific visa subclass before submitting an application.
What Does Online Lodgement Mean for Applicants?
For the affected subclasses, applicants can use ImmiAccount to complete their application, pay the first instalment of the visa application charge, and upload supporting documents. Online lodgement can make it easier to:
Keep application records in one place
Upload supporting documents
Receive correspondence from Home Affairs
Respond to requests for further information
Update certain details
Monitor the application’s status
However, online lodgement does not reduce the amount of preparation required. Parent visa applications can involve extensive family, identity, sponsorship, health, and character information. You may also need to satisfy the balance of family test, depending on the visa subclass.
Does Online Lodgement Make Parent Visa Processing Faster?
The move to ImmiAccount changes the method of lodgement. However, it does not necessarily mean that Parent visas will be processed more quickly. Demand for Parent visas remains significantly higher than the number of places available each year. Many Parent visa categories are subject to long queues and extended processing periods. Therefore, do not treat online lodgement as an indication that a decision will be made within a short period.
What About an Existing Parent Visa Application?
If you have already lodged a Parent visa application, do not submit a duplicate application just because the lodgement process has changed. Existing applicants should continue to follow the instructions provided by Home Affairs and use the communication or document-submission method applicable to their application. Before withdrawing, replacing, or submitting another Parent visa application, seek advice about the possible consequences. A new application may involve additional charges and could affect your place in the processing queue.
Important Matters to Check Before Applying
The Correct Visa Subclass
Permanent, temporary, contributory, and non-contributory Parent visas have different requirements, charges, and expected processing periods. Ensure you are applying for the correct subclass.
The Balance of Family Test
Most Parent visa applicants must pass the balance of family test. Broadly, you must have:
At least half of your children and stepchildren living permanently in Australia as eligible children; or
More eligible children living permanently in Australia than in any other single country.
Home Affairs does not waive this test due to compassionate or exceptional circumstances.
The Applicant’s Location
Some Parent visa subclasses require you to be outside Australia at particular stages. Aged Parent visa subclasses have different location requirements.
Current Visa Conditions
If you are in Australia, check whether your current visa contains a condition that restricts further visa applications.
Government Charges
Parent visa costs can be substantial and may involve more than one instalment. Charges can change, so confirm the current amount immediately before lodgement.
Health and Character Requirements
You may need to complete medical examinations and provide police clearances. Additional requirements can arise depending on your individual circumstances.
Avoid Relying on Old Forms and Checklists
The transition to online lodgement means that older websites, saved forms, and previously downloaded checklists may no longer reflect the correct procedure. Before applying, confirm:
Whether the subclass must be lodged online or on paper
The current application charge
The correct supporting documents
Your location requirements
Whether sponsorship documents are required
How additional documents must be provided after lodgement
Need Advice About a Parent Visa?
If you are considering a Parent visa for yourself or a family member, you can book an initial consultation with Chin & Co Migration. Clear advice at the beginning can help you understand the available pathways, likely costs, and practical limitations before proceeding.
For more information, visit the official source: Australian Department of Home Affairs — Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864).
Information current as at 13 August 2026. This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Australian migration law, policy, fees, and procedures can change. Advice should be obtained for your individual circumstances before lodging an application.
Comments