Sponsored Parent Visa 870 Australia 2026: 3-Year, 5-Year and 10-Year Rules

5 days ago

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The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870 allows eligible parents to visit family in Australia for up to three or five years per visa, with further subclass 870 visas potentially allowing a cumulative maximum of ten years in Australia.

This visa does not lead directly to permanent residence

Home Affairs expressly states that the subclass 870 is temporary and does not lead to permanent residence. A person who has applied for or holds this visa cannot apply for a permanent or temporary Parent visa while that restriction applies.

Sponsorship comes first

The parent must have an approved Parent Sponsor before lodging the visa application. The sponsor's household is limited to one sponsorship at a time and can cover up to two parents at a time.

Income test

Home Affairs currently publishes a Parent Sponsor taxable-income threshold of AUD83,454.80 for the most recently completed taxable income year. The rules allow certain income combinations with a partner or another eligible child, subject to conditions.

Work and health insurance

Subclass 870 holders cannot work in Australia. Home Affairs also requires adequate health insurance arrangements for the visa holder.

For permanent options, compare Parent Visa Australia 2026.

For broader visa charges, see Australian Visa Fees 2026–27.

Official source

• Department of Home Affairs — Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa subclass 870

This article provides general information only. Sponsorship approval, income, location, insurance and previous subclass 870 history should be checked before applying.