Subclass 173 Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa
Parents who pay the first contributory instalment for a 2-year temporary visa, then move to the permanent 143.
The Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173) is an Australian family & partner visa. This guide covers who the 173 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (First contributory instalment ≈ $4,990) and processing time (Several years (queue)), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 173 visa is for
Parents who pay the first contributory instalment for a 2-year temporary visa, then move to the permanent 143.
A stepping-stone — convert to the permanent Contributory Parent visa (143) by paying the second instalment.
Subclass 173 eligibility criteria
- Pass the balance-of-family test
- An eligible sponsor
- Assurance of Support (at the 143 stage)
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 173 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173) is First contributory instalment ≈ $4,990, with an indicative processing time of Several years (queue). Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary (2 yrs) |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore or offshore |
| Length of stay | 2 years |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | First contributory instalment ≈ $4,990 |
| Processing time | Several years (queue) |
| Pathway to PR | A stepping-stone — convert to the permanent Contributory Parent visa (143) by paying the second instalment. |
Pathway & next steps
A stepping-stone — convert to the permanent Contributory Parent visa (143) by paying the second instalment.
Many applicants also compare the 143 (Contributory Parent visa), the 804 (Aged Parent visa), the 864 (Contributory Aged Parent visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 173 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 173 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 173 visa cost?
The Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173) base application charge is First contributory instalment ≈ $4,990. Government charges are indicative for 2025–26 and usually change on 1 July — always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 173 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is Several years (queue). Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 173 visa lead to permanent residence?
A stepping-stone — convert to the permanent Contributory Parent visa (143) by paying the second instalment.
Can I work on the subclass 173 visa?
Work rights on the Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 173 visa?
Parents who pay the first contributory instalment for a 2-year temporary visa, then move to the permanent 143.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change — confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) — official Australian immigration authority