The "Expensive Parent Visa": A Temporary Option to Visit Your Children in Australia

Understanding the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa – Subclass 870

Not every parent wants to move to Australia permanently — but many would love the chance to spend quality time with their children and grandchildren without worrying about short visa stays or multiple reapplications. That’s where the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 870) comes in.

Sometimes called the “expensive parent visa”, this temporary visa allows parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years at a time, with a total stay of up to 10 years over multiple visas.

Why consider this visa?

Many parents, especially those from countries where visitor visas are difficult to obtain or are often refused, find this visa a valuable option. Unlike a tourist visa, the 870 visa is designed specifically for parents, providing longer stay periods and greater certainty.

It is ideal for families who:

• Don’t intend to permanently migrate to Australia

• Want to spend extended time with their children and grandchildren

• May have experienced visitor visa refusals or concerns about reapplying frequently

Key features:

• No requirement to meet the Balance of Family Test

• No need for permanent residence pathways

• Available in 3-year or 5-year visa options

• Renewable up to a maximum of 10 years in total stay

• Requires an approved sponsor (the child) before lodging the visa

• Must apply from outside Australia

Things to consider:

• The application fee is quite high, which is why it’s often called the “expensive parent visa”

• The sponsor (usually the child in Australia) must meet strict income and character requirements

• The visa cannot be extended while onshore — future applications must be made offshore

• Health insurance is mandatory for the duration of stay

Is it right for your family?

This visa is a great fit for families who want the flexibility of longer visits without permanent migration, especially if parents have had trouble securing tourist visas. It offers more stability and time together — whether it's helping out with a new baby, attending family milestones, or simply enjoying everyday life as a family.

Need help sponsoring your parents or lodging the 870 visa?We’ll guide you through sponsorship approval, application requirements, and all supporting documents to give your family the best chance of success.