Subclass 103 / Permanent parent pathway
Parent visa (subclass 103)
A family goal. An informed plan.
Explore permanent parent migration with a clear view of the long queue. We help you understand eligibility, the financial requirements and how this pathway fits your family's plans.
- Visa type
- Permanent
- Age-pension-age requirement
- Does not apply
- Processing
- Capped and queued
What this pathway offers
Consider the destination. Understand the wait.
The 103 is a permanent parent option with lower application charges than contributory pathways, but a substantially longer queue for new applicants.
Permanent residence if granted
Live, work and study in Australia as a permanent resident after the visa is granted.
A parent pathway without an aged threshold
The primary applicant does not need to meet the Age Pension age threshold that applies to the 804.
Compare costs and timing
Look at the charges, support commitments and long wait together before comparing this route with a contributory option.
The requirements in context
What needs to line up.
The family criteria and the expected wait both need attention. For a standard application, check:
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An eligible settled child and sponsor
Usually, an adult child who is a settled Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen sponsors you. Other permitted arrangements require checking.
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The balance-of-family test
Assess all relevant children and stepchildren against the formal test, including their immigration status and residence.
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Assurance of Support
A standard 103 grant requires an Assurance of Support, separate from sponsorship and visa charges. Qualifying retirement-pathway applicants have different requirements.
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Location and personal circumstances
Current guidance allows applications from in or outside Australia, outside immigration clearance. Check health, character, current visa conditions and any 870 application or visa.
A place in the queue is not permission to stay.
The 103 queue for new applications is measured in decades under current estimates. An application does not give permanent residence while you wait.
If you are in Australia, your ability to remain, work or travel depends on your actual visa arrangements. Check those separately from the parent application and its eventual grant requirements.
A plan you can follow
From your family plans to the next step.
We help you weigh the long-term suitability of the pathway and organise the application without promising a short wait.
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Review the family's position
Confirm the family structure, sponsor, current visas and whether a standard or qualifying retirement pathway applies.
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Prepare the supporting records
Gather identity, family relationship, status and residence evidence, with clear explanations of any gaps.
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Lodge online
Use ImmiAccount under the current permanent parent lodgement instructions and pay the required initial charge.
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Manage the queue and later requests
Keep details current and respond when required. Prepare for the Assurance of Support, checks and any later charges at the appropriate stage.
Preparation that makes sense
The right records. A clearer application.
Your checklist should reflect the pathway and your circumstances. Depending on the application, it may include:
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Identity and immigration-history records.
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Family relationship documents and relevant details of children and stepchildren.
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Children's status and residence evidence for the balance-of-family test.
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Sponsor identity, status and settlement records.
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Assurance of Support, health and character material when required.
A little more clarity
Your 103 questions, made clearer.
Start with the essentials, then look at how the requirements apply to your family and circumstances.
Is the 103 an aged-parent visa?
No. The 103 does not have the Age Pension age threshold that applies to the 804. Family, sponsorship and other requirements still apply. A standard 103 application does not provide an associated bridging visa; qualifying retirement-pathway applicants have different arrangements.
How is it different from the 143?
Both are permanent parent visas. The 103 has lower government application charges and a substantially longer queue under current estimates. The contributory 143 has higher charges and still faces capping and queueing. Compare total costs, support commitments and the practical effect of the wait.
How long does the Assurance of Support last?
A standard 103 Assurance of Support lasts four years. It starts when the visa is granted or the person arrives in Australia, whichever is later. The assurer may need to repay specified income support payments. Qualifying retirement-pathway applicants have different requirements. See Services Australia guidance.
Can I switch to a contributory application later?
You may be able to withdraw the 103 application and make a new contributory application if you meet its requirements. Home Affairs says the original 103 application date is taken into account for a new 143 or 173 application. Check the current instructions, charges and withdrawal steps before making changes.
How long will it take and what will it cost?
New 103 applications face waits measured in decades under current estimates. Check the current queue guidance and visa charges. Plan the initial charge, any later instalment and Assurance of Support bond separately. We explain our professional fees and scope before you proceed.
Your next step starts with you
Make a decision with the full picture.
Tell us about your family and longer-term plans. We will help you understand what the 103 pathway involves and compare the relevant options.