A Two-Year Pathway Toward Permanent Residency in Australia
The Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa – Subclass 173 allows parents of settled Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia temporarily for up to 2 years.
This visa is designed as a stepping stone toward permanent residency, enabling parents to apply for the Contributory Parent (Permanent) Visa – Subclass 143 while remaining in Australia.
At RR Patel Overseas And Education Private Limited, we help families plan this transition carefully, ensuring eligibility, correct timing, and smooth progression to permanent residency.
Key Features of the Subclass 173 Visa
- Temporary Stay
Live in Australia for up to 2 years. - Pathway to Permanent Residency
Apply for the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa during the validity of the 173 visa. - Onshore Transition
No need to leave Australia when applying for the permanent parent visa.
What You Can Do with This Visa
- Live in Australia for the full 2-year visa period
- Work and study in Australia
(government financial support is not available) - Apply for permanent residency under Subclass 143 while staying in Australia
Eligibility Requirements
Sponsorship
You must be sponsored by an eligible child who is a:
- Settled Australian citizen
- Settled Australian permanent resident
- Eligible New Zealand citizen who has lived in Australia for a significant period
Balance of Family Test
You must meet one of the following:
- At least half of your children live permanently in Australia, or
- More of your children live in Australia than in any other single country
Visa Conditions & Compliance
- Comply with all Australian laws and visa conditions
- Meet health and character requirements
Exclusions
- You must not hold or have applied for a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa – Subclass 870 at the time of applying for the Subclass 173 visa
Stay Duration
- Visa validity: Up to 2 years
- During this time, applicants may lodge an application for the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa
Application Process
Step-by-Step Overview
- Check Eligibility
Confirm sponsorship eligibility and Balance-of-Family Test compliance. - Lodge Application
Submit the visa application and pay the first visa application charge. - Queue & Assessment
The application is queued and assessed by the Department of Home Affairs. - Further Assessment
Additional documents or checks may be requested before a decision. - Second Visa Charge
If approved, pay the second instalment of the visa application fee. - Visa Grant
Once all requirements are met, the Subclass 173 visa is granted.
Important Notes
Transition to Subclass 143
- You may apply for the permanent Subclass 143 visa at any time during the validity of the Subclass 173 visa.
New Zealand Citizen Updates
- From 1 July 2023, certain changes apply to Australian citizenship eligibility for some New Zealand citizens holding a Subclass 444 visa.
Individual circumstances should be assessed carefully.
Why Choose RR Patel Overseas And Education Private Limited?
- Clear advice on 173 → 143 transition planning
- Balance-of-Family Test assessment
- Support with sponsorship and documentation
- Realistic guidance on costs, timelines, and obligations
- Compassionate handling of family-based applications
Ready to Start Your Parent Visa Journey?
The Contributory Parent (Temporary) Visa – Subclass 173 is a practical first step toward reuniting with your family in Australia and progressing to permanent residency.
RR Patel Overseas And Education Private Limited is here to guide you with clarity, care, and long-term planning.
Book a consultation today and take the first step toward living closer to your loved ones in Australia.
