Subclass 173 / A two-stage contributory pathway
Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173)
One stage now. A longer plan ahead.
Consider the temporary contributory stage with the permanent application in view. We help you understand what the 173 offers, what it costs and how to plan the next step.
- Visa type
- Temporary
- Stay
- Up to 2 years
- Possible next stage
- Separate subclass 143 application
What this pathway offers
A staged approach. A clear view of what follows.
The 173 is a temporary visa with a possible permanent stage through the 143. It is subject to the contributory parent queue before grant.
Time in Australia after grant
The granted visa permits a stay of up to two years, with work and study rights under the visa framework.
Spread the visa charges
The two-stage approach spreads charges across separate applications. It generally costs more overall than a direct 143 application.
Plan the permanent stage
Use a clear timeline for the later 143 application, the additional requirements and the charges that may follow.
The requirements in context
What needs to line up.
This is a parent migration application, rather than a quick alternative to the permanent visa queue. Check:
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Your settled child and sponsor
Usually, an eligible settled adult child sponsors the application. Check the child's status, family relationship and sponsorship eligibility.
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Your balance of family
The balance-of-family test applies to a standard 173 application. Relevant children and stepchildren must be assessed under its definitions.
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Application location and visa conditions
Current guidance allows an application from in or outside Australia. If applying in Australia, check visa conditions and validity requirements. Application location and grant location are separate questions.
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Charges and personal requirements
Prepare for the contributory charges, health and character requirements. An existing 870 application or visa can prevent this application.
Two years describes the visa after grant, not the processing time.
The initial 173 application is capped and queued. A temporary label does not make this a short-wait option.
Permanent residence requires a separate 143 application. Plan to lodge before the 173 expires, with the later charges and Assurance of Support requirements considered in advance.
A plan you can follow
From your family plans to the next step.
We help connect the first application with the later stage so the temporary grant is part of a considered plan.
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Compare direct and staged routes
Review family eligibility, the contributory queue and the overall costs before deciding whether a staged application fits.
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Prepare the paper application
Use the current parent application and sponsorship forms. Bring together family, identity and status evidence.
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Lodge and follow the queue process
Submit using the paper lodgement instructions and pay the required charge. Keep details current and respond to requests.
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Prepare the 143 stage after grant
Review the temporary visa's dates and plan the separate permanent application before expiry. Check the permanent-stage requirements and charges.
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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Parent identity records and relevant visa history.
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Birth, adoption or other records explaining the family relationship.
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Children and stepchildren's status and residence evidence for the family test.
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Sponsor identity, status, settlement evidence and required forms.
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Payment records, translations and health or character material when required.
A little more clarity
Your 173 questions, made clearer.
Start with the essentials, then look at how the requirements apply to your family and circumstances.
Can I apply online for the 173?
The initial 173 application must currently be lodged on paper. Use the current forms, payment and delivery instructions. After receiving an acknowledgement, you can import the application into ImmiAccount to manage it. Check the Home Affairs instructions before lodging.
Is the 173 a permanent visa?
No. It allows a temporary stay of up to two years, starting when you enter Australia after grant. Permanent residence requires a separate 143 application. Plan to lodge that application before the 173 expires; the 173 cannot be extended.
Do I need an Assurance of Support for this stage?
An Assurance of Support is not required for the temporary 173 stage. Sponsorship requirements still apply. Plan separately for the Assurance of Support and bond required at the later permanent 143 stage.
Can I rely on this application to stay in Australia?
A 173 application does not provide an associated bridging visa. Any stay while waiting needs a separate valid visa. You must be outside Australia when Home Affairs decides the 173 application. Check your current conditions and travel plans before lodging.
How long will it take and what will it cost?
The initial application is capped and queued, with substantial waits. Compare charges for both the 173 and later 143 applications; the staged route generally costs more overall. Check current queue guidance and visa charges. We explain our professional fees and scope before you proceed.
Your next step starts with you
See both stages before you begin.
Share your family circumstances and plans. We will help you compare the staged route with a direct permanent application.