Subclass 864 Contributory Aged Parent visa
Aged parents (at pension age) already in Australia, paying the contributory charge for faster processing.
The Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864) is an Australian family & partner visa. This guide covers who the 864 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (Two instalments; second instalment ≈ $48,640 per applicant) and processing time (Several years (faster than non-contributory)), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 864 visa is for
Aged parents (at pension age) already in Australia, paying the contributory charge for faster processing.
This is permanent residence for aged parents onshore.
Subclass 864 eligibility criteria
- Be old enough to receive the Australian age pension
- Pass the balance-of-family test
- An eligible sponsor and Assurance of Support
- Be in Australia (often on a Bridging visa) at application
- Health and character requirements
Subclass 864 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864) is Two instalments; second instalment ≈ $48,640 per applicant, with an indicative processing time of Several years (faster than non-contributory). Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | Two instalments; second instalment ≈ $48,640 per applicant |
| Processing time | Several years (faster than non-contributory) |
| Pathway to PR | This is permanent residence for aged parents onshore. |
Pathway & next steps
This is permanent residence for aged parents onshore.
Many applicants also compare the 143 (Contributory Parent visa), the 804 (Aged Parent visa), the 804 (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 864 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 864 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 864 visa cost?
The Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864) base application charge is Two instalments; second instalment ≈ $48,640 per applicant. 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 864 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is Several years (faster than non-contributory). Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 864 visa lead to permanent residence?
This is permanent residence for aged parents onshore.
Can I work on the subclass 864 visa?
Work rights on the Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 864 visa?
Aged parents (at pension age) already in Australia, paying the contributory charge for faster processing.