For many migrants, getting Australia PR isn’t just about building a career or starting fresh — it’s also about reuniting with loved ones. But when it comes to parent visas, the waiting times can be shockingly long.
Some families are separated for 10 years, 20 years or even more due to slow processing times. This delay affects not only parents overseas but also children and grandchildren living in Australia. As an immigration expert, I’ve seen how these long waits take an emotional and financial toll on families.That’s why i recommend consulting with a MARA Registered Lawyer. They are expert and make your visa process smoother and hussel free.
Why Parent Visa Processing Takes So Long
The main reasons for long delays in parent visa applications include:
- High Demand and Limited Spots – Australia caps the number of parent visas issued each year.
- Strict Australia PR Requirements – Applicants must meet eligibility rules, including the Balance of Family Test.
- Lengthy Background Checks – Health, character, and financial checks can take months.
- Priority Given to Other Visa Streams – Skilled migration often gets processed faster than family visas.
The Emotional Impact of Long Family Separation
Long delays don’t just show up as numbers on a government website — they impact real lives.
- Missing Milestones – Parents miss grandchildren’s birthdays, graduations, and important family events.
- Emotional Stress – Distance strains relationships and creates feelings of isolation.
- Health Concerns – Older parents may need care and support that family in Australia could provide.
Types of Parent Visas in Australia
Before applying, it’s important to know your options:
- Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143/173) – Faster but comes with higher costs.
- Non-Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 103) – Lower cost but can take decades.
- Aged Parent Visa – Available for parents of retirement age, with onshore application options.
Expert Tips to Reduce Waiting Time
While you can’t skip the queue entirely. you can take steps to make the process smoother:
- Choose the Right Visa Stream – If you can afford the Australia PR cost for contributory visas, it’s much faster.
- Submit a Complete Application – Missing documents can push you to the back of the line.
- Stay Updated – Immigration policies and yearly caps change. Monitor official updates.
- Use a Registered Migration Agent – Experts in AU PR and family visas can help avoid mistakes that cause delays.
Conclusion
Long family separation caused by slow parent visa processing is one of the most painful realities for migrants in Australia. The combination of strict Australia PR requirements, limited spots, and high demand means that some parents may never see their children settle in Australia within their lifetime.
If you’re already a permanent resident Australia or planning to apply for Australian PR, start exploring your parent visa options early. With the right planning, correct visa choice and expert guidance, you can shorten the wait and bring your family together sooner.
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