143 Visa (Contributory Parent): Costs, Wait Times & How to Apply in 2026

What Is the 143 Contributory Parent Visa?

The Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143) is a permanent visa that allows parents to join their children in Australia. Unlike the standard Parent visa (subclass 103), which has lower fees but a wait time of 20-30+ years, the 143 is the fast-track option — faster processing in exchange for significantly higher fees. The 143 is the second stage of a two-step process. First, you apply for a subclass 173 (Contributory Parent Temporary) visa. Then, you apply for the subclass 143 (Contributory Parent Permanent) visa. Some applicants apply for both stages simultaneously.

Eligibility Requirements

Your sponsor (the child in Australia) must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, be settled in Australia (lived here for at least 2 years in most cases), and provide an Assurance of Support (AoS) — a bond lodged with the government. You (the parent) must have at least half of your children living permanently in Australia (the 'balance of family' test), meet health requirements including a health examination, meet character requirements with police clearances, and not have any outstanding debts to the Australian government. The balance of family test is the most common eligibility hurdle — if you have 3 children and 2 live in Australia, you pass (67%). If you have 4 children and only 1 is in Australia, you fail (25%).

How Much Does the 143 Visa Cost?

This is the most expensive standard visa in Australia. The first instalment at application is approximately $4,700 AUD. The second instalment, due before the visa is granted, is approximately $47,755 AUD. On top of this, the Assurance of Support bond is $10,000-15,000 (refundable after 10 years if the parent doesn't claim certain social security benefits). Health examinations cost $300-500 per person, police clearances $50-200 per country, and migration agent fees typically range from $3,000-6,000. The total estimated cost is $55,000-70,000 or more. The second instalment is due only after your application has been assessed and approved in principle, so you don't need the full amount upfront.

Processing Times and the Two-Step Strategy

Current processing times for the 143 visa are estimated at 3-6 years from lodgement to grant. This is significantly faster than the standard parent visa (subclass 103), which has a 30+ year queue. Many families use a two-step strategy: apply for the subclass 173 temporary parent visa first (typically processed in 1-3 years), get the parent to Australia, then convert to the permanent 143. This gets your parent to Australia faster but costs more in total visa application charges. A migration agent can advise which option suits your family's situation, timeline, and budget.

The Balance of Family Test Explained

The balance of family test requires that at least half of your children live permanently in Australia. This is calculated based on all your children, including step-children and adopted children. Children who have passed away do not count. For example, if a parent has 3 children with 2 in Australia and 1 in India, they pass at 67%. If a parent has 2 children with 1 in Australia and 1 in the UK, they pass at 50%. But if a parent has 4 children with only 1 in Australia and 3 overseas, they fail at 25%. This test can be complex with blended families, and it's one of the key areas where a migration agent adds value.

Do You Need a Migration Agent for a 143 Visa?

Given the complexity and cost involved, most families use a migration agent for the 143 visa. There's $50,000+ at stake — a refusal means losing the first instalment and starting over. The balance of family test can be tricky with complex family structures. The Assurance of Support requires navigating Centrelink processes. Health requirements are stricter for older applicants, and a medical issue could derail the application. The two-step process decision has significant cost and timing implications. If you'd like to compare agents, submit a free case brief at Migratio. Up to 3 MARA-registered agents who handle parent visas will review your case and compete for it — you choose the best fit, and agents only pay when you select them.

Can my parent work in Australia on a 143 visa?

Once granted, yes — the 143 is a permanent visa with full work rights. On the temporary 173, work rights are also included.

Can both parents apply on one application?

Yes. One parent applies as the primary applicant and the other as a secondary applicant. Both must meet health and character requirements.

Is the Assurance of Support bond refundable?

Yes, after 10 years, provided the parent hasn't claimed certain social security payments. The bond is approximately $10,000-15,000.

What if my parent has a medical condition?

Some conditions may result in a health waiver request. Serious conditions can lead to refusal. A migration agent experienced with parent visas can advise on medical risks before you commit the application fee.

Can I sponsor my parent if I'm on a temporary visa?

No. The sponsoring child must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.