The Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is a visa that allows older parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia permanently. It’s designed for parents already in Australia who want to stay long-term with their children.

While this visa is more affordable than other permanent parent visas, it comes with very long waiting times—something applicants must seriously consider before applying.

Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know: eligibility, benefits, processing time, and how it compares to other options.

What Is the Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)?

The Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is a permanent visa for elderly parents of:

• Australian citizens
  
  
• Australian permanent residents
  
  
• Eligible New Zealand citizens
  
  

It’s not a contributory visa, meaning the application cost is lower. However, the downside is that processing times can stretch over decades.

It’s a great option for parents who are already in Australia and want to stay permanently with their children and grandchildren.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Aged Parent Visa 804, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Age Requirement

You must be of pension age (currently 67). This can vary depending on your date of birth, so check the latest guidelines before applying.

2. Sponsorship

You must be sponsored by your child, who must be:

• An Australian citizen
  
  
• A permanent resident
  
  
• An eligible New Zealand citizen
  
  

If your child is under 18, a close relative or a community organization can sponsor you.

3. Balance of Family Test

You must pass the “balance of family” test. This means either:

• At least half of your children live permanently in Australia, or
  
  
• More of your children live in Australia permanently than in any other single country
  
  

4. Location

You must be inside Australia when you apply—and also when a decision is made.

5. Health and Character

You’ll need to meet health and character requirements, including medical exams and police checks.

6. Assurance of Support (AoS)

An AoS may be required. This ensures you won’t rely on government financial support after your visa is granted.

Benefits of the Aged Parent Visa 804

Despite the long wait, this visa offers significant benefits once approved:

• Permanent residency in Australia
  
  
• Freedom to work and study
  
  
• Access to Medicare (public healthcare)
  
  
• Pathway to Australian citizenship
  
  
• Multiple travel rights for five years from the date of visa grant
  
  

How the Application Process Works

1. Prepare Your Documents

Gather all necessary documents—passport, ID, evidence of your relationship with your sponsor, financial info, police checks, and health clearances.

2. Submit Your Application

You must apply onshore (while in Australia). After applying, you’ll receive a Bridging Visa that allows you to stay legally in Australia while you wait.

3. Wait for Processing

Here’s the big one: the visa is capped and queued, and waiting times can exceed 30 years.

Applicants typically spend decades on a Bridging Visa before receiving their permanent residency.

4. Visa Grant

Once approved, you’ll receive permanent resident status and all the benefits that come with it.

Who Is This Visa For?

The Aged Parent Visa 804 is best for applicants who:

• Are already in Australia
  
  
• Do not need permanent residency urgently
  
  
• Are comfortable staying long-term on a Bridging Visa
  
  
• Prefer a lower-cost option over a faster, more expensive visa
  
  

This is a good fit for elderly parents who want to retire peacefully with their families in Australia and are willing to wait.

Comparison With Other Parent Visas

As shown, the 804 visa is the most affordable, but requires the most patience. Contributory visas like 864 and 143 offer faster processing—but at a much higher cost.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying

• Long wait times: You might wait 30+ years. Think carefully if this timeline fits your life plans.
  
  
• Health insurance: You may need to purchase private coverage, as Medicare access may only come with permanent residency.
  
  
• Family impact: Consider the emotional and financial impact on your family while you wait.

Final Thoughts

The Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is an ideal choice for older parents already in Australia who want to stay permanently with their family—and are willing to wait.

While the wait time is significant, the lower cost makes this visa attractive for many. Just make sure to plan well and consult with a migration expert to ensure this is the right path for you.

Spend your retirement years surrounded by your loved ones—with the peace and stability this visa can eventually offer.