For many families, the distance between parents and children can feel like more than just miles. It's emotional. It’s daily life events missed, celebrations spent apart, and the desire to simply be together in one place. Fortunately, for elderly parents hoping to join their children in Australia permanently, the Parent Visa Subclass 804 offers a pathway to make that dream come true.

This visa category is designed to help aged parents live out their retirement years in Australia, close to their families. While it requires patience, it offers a genuine solution for long-term settlement and reunification.

What is the Parent Visa Subclass 804?

The visa subclass 804, also known as the Aged Parent Visa, is a permanent parent visa that allows elderly parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live in Australia indefinitely. It’s part of Australia’s family reunion visa program and is considered a non-contributory visa, which makes it more affordable than other parent visa options.

However, because it's more budget-friendly, it’s also highly competitive. Applicants are placed in a queue and may have to wait many years before a decision is made.

Who is the Subclass 804 Visa Meant For?

This visa is tailored for aged parents, meaning those who are old enough to qualify for the Australian Age Pension (currently 67 years old, depending on birth date). It’s essential that the applicant:

• Has a child living in Australia who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

• Passes the Balance of Family Test – this means that at least half of their children must live in Australia, or more children must live in Australia than in any other single country.

• Is sponsored by an eligible child who agrees to financially support them.

• Applies while in Australia on a valid visa, typically a visitor visa.

• Meets health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

Key Benefits of Visa Subclass 804

Despite the lengthy wait times, the parent visa subclass 804 comes with numerous benefits:

• Permanent Residency: Live in Australia indefinitely with access to rights similar to Australian citizens.

• Medicare Access: Once approved, visa holders gain access to Australia's public healthcare system.

• Path to Citizenship: After meeting residency and character requirements, visa holders can apply for citizenship.

• Emotional Reunification: Elderly parents can enjoy family life and support during their later years.

• No Need to Leave: Once on a bridging visa, parents can stay in Australia while they wait for processing.

This makes it a popular Australian visa for elderly parents who plan to spend their retirement years close to their children and grandchildren.

Processing Time: A Major Consideration

One of the biggest drawbacks of this visa is the very long processing time. Because it is a non-contributory parent migration visa, only a small number of visas are granted each year under Australia's migration planning levels.

Applicants may wait up to 30 years or more in the queue. That said, if an application is lodged while in Australia and the applicant is granted a Bridging Visa, they can remain in the country legally while awaiting the decision.

This makes the 804 visa especially suitable for aged parents who are already visiting Australia and want to stay with family long-term.

Visa Costs and the Assurance of Support

The Parent Visa Subclass 804 has a relatively low application fee compared to contributory visas. The payment is made in two installments, one at the time of application and the second before the visa is granted.

A significant requirement is the Assurance of Support (AoS)—a legal commitment from the sponsor (usually the child) to financially support the parent and ensure they won’t rely on government welfare. This helps reduce the burden on Australia's social security system.

Subclass 804 vs Contributory Parent Visas

Australia offers other options for parent migration, including Contributory Parent Visas (subclass 143 or 864). These visas are processed much faster—typically within 3–6 years—but are significantly more expensive, often costing over $40,000 per applicant.

The visa subclass 804 offers a low-cost alternative for those who don’t mind the wait and are already in Australia. It’s an ideal choice for retirees who want to remain near their families, enjoy a peaceful lifestyle, and settle permanently.

Tips for Applicants

• Apply While in Australia: You must be onshore at both the time of application and when a decision is made.

• Maintain Legal Status: Ensure you have a valid Bridging Visa while awaiting your 804 visa outcome.

• Seek Professional Advice: A registered migration agent can simplify the process and help avoid costly delays.

• Health Insurance: Until Medicare access is granted, it's wise to maintain private health insurance coverage.

Final Thoughts

The Parent Visa Subclass 804 is more than just a visa. It's a bridge to closeness, care, and connection for families who have lived apart for too long. While it does come with a long wait, the rewards—permanent residency, family reunification, and peace of mind—can be life-changing.

For many families, it’s not about getting there fast—it’s about getting there together. And for that, the aged parent visa Australia offers a patient, but powerful solution.