Subclass 804 Visa Explained: Complete Guide for Australian Aged Parents
- Jasmeet Kaur
- Dec 29, 2025
- 4 min read
Australia offers several pathways for parents to reunite with their children permanently, but for elderly parents already in Australia, the Subclass 804 Visa stands out as a unique option. Officially known as the aged parent visa Australia subclass 804, this visa allows eligible parents to remain in Australia permanently—provided they meet strict age, family balance, and sponsorship criteria.
In this complete guide, we explain how the Subclass 804 Visa works, who can apply, costs involved, processing timelines, and how it compares with other Australian parent visa types. If you are planning long-term settlement for your parents, understanding this visa thoroughly is essential.
What Is the Subclass 804 Visa?
The Subclass 804 Visa is a permanent resident visa designed for aged parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. Unlike many parent visas, this visa can only be applied for onshore, meaning the parent must be physically present in Australia at the time of application and decision.
While it is one of the most affordable parent visas, it comes with an extremely long processing time due to annual caps and queue-based allocation.
Who Can Apply for Subclass 804 Visa?
To be eligible for the Subclass 804 Visa, applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
1. Age Requirement
The parent must have reached Australian Age Pension age, which is generally between 65 and 67 years, depending on date of birth.
2. Balance of Family Test
This is a crucial requirement. The parent must show that:
At least half of their children live permanently in Australia, or
More children live in Australia than in any other single country
3. Sponsorship Requirement
The parent must be sponsored by an eligible child who is:
An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
Settled in Australia (usually living there for at least two years)
4. Onshore Presence
Applicants must be inside Australia when lodging the application and when the visa is granted.
5. Health and Character Checks
Medical examinations and police clearances are mandatory.
Cost of Subclass 804 Visa
One of the biggest advantages of the Subclass 804 Visa is its low application cost, especially when compared to contributory parent visas.
Approximate Costs
First instalment: Around AUD 4,990
Second instalment: Minimal compared to contributory visas
Additional Expenses
Health assessments
Police checks
Assurance of Support (AoS) bond
Health insurance (recommended during waiting period)
Despite the lower cost, applicants must plan financially for a long waiting period in Australia.
Processing Time: Why Is It So Long?
The biggest drawback of the Subclass 804 Visa is the very long processing time, often ranging from 20 to 30 years or more.
Why the Delay?
Annual caps on parent visas
Queue-based processing
High demand and limited places
Applications are processed strictly in the order they are received. This is why many families lodge a Subclass 804 application primarily to secure a place in the queue.
Bridging Visa While Waiting
Once a valid Subclass 804 application is lodged, parents are usually granted a Bridging Visa, which allows them to stay lawfully in Australia while waiting.
Key Bridging Visa Points
Allows continued stay in Australia
Work rights may be limited
Travel outside Australia requires a Bridging Visa B
Medicare access may be available in certain cases
Managing bridging visa conditions correctly is critical, and this is where guidance from a professional migration consultant becomes valuable.
Subclass 804 Visa vs Other Australian Parent Visa Types
Australia offers several parent visa options, each with different costs and timelines:
Understanding these Australian parent visa types helps families choose between affordability and faster outcomes.
Benefits of Subclass 804 Visa
Despite long waiting times, the Subclass 804 Visa offers meaningful long-term benefits:
Permanent residency in Australia
Ability to live indefinitely with children
Access to Medicare (subject to conditions)
No need for repeated visitor visa renewals
Pathway to Australian citizenship (if eligible)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications face delays or complications due to:
Incorrect Balance of Family Test assessment
Applying without meeting age criteria
Not understanding bridging visa restrictions
Inadequate Assurance of Support planning
Working with an experienced migration consultant helps avoid costly errors and ensures long-term visa compliance.
Read More: Skilled Independent Visa 189 Requirements
Is Subclass 804 Visa Right for You?
The Subclass 804 Visa is ideal for families who:
Have parents already in Australia
Want a low-cost permanent solution
Can manage long waiting periods
Have strong family ties in Australia
For families seeking faster outcomes, contributory parent visas may be more suitable despite higher costs.
Final Thoughts
The Subclass 804 Visa offers a permanent pathway for aged parents to remain in Australia, but it requires careful planning, patience, and expert guidance. Understanding eligibility, costs, bridging visa rules, and how it compares with other Australian parent visa types is essential before applying.
Given the complexity and long-term implications, consulting a qualified migration consultant can help you make informed decisions, avoid mistakes, and secure the best outcome for your family.
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