The 870 Visa offers a pathway for parents to temporarily reunite with their children in Australia, with the sponsorship application form being a crucial step in the process. It streamlines the application, ensuring all required details are accurately provided for a successful submission.

Overview of the 870 Visa Program

The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) is a temporary visa designed to allow parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to visit Australia for extended periods. Introduced in 2019, the program provides a flexible solution for family reunification, enabling parents to stay for up to 3 or 5 years. The visa is sponsor-led, meaning the child in Australia must first apply to become an approved parent sponsor before the parent can lodge their visa application. This program reflects Australia’s commitment to supporting family unity while maintaining balanced immigration policies. The 870 Visa offers a pathway for parents to connect with their children and grandchildren, fostering stronger family ties and cultural exchange. It is a temporary visa, and applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including health, character, and financial requirements. The program ensures that parents can enjoy extended visits while adhering to Australia’s immigration regulations and procedures.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors

To be eligible to sponsor a parent under the 870 Visa program, the sponsor must meet specific requirements. The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. They must also meet the income threshold, which is currently set at AUD 83,454.80 annually. This ensures the sponsor can provide financial support to the parent during their stay in Australia. Additionally, the sponsor must be approved by the Department of Home Affairs before the parent can apply for the visa. The sponsor is also required to provide adequate accommodation for the parent and meet other obligations outlined by the Department. The sponsorship process involves submitting the sponsorship application form and paying the required fee. The sponsor must also agree to financially support the parent and ensure they comply with visa conditions. Meeting these criteria ensures the sponsor can responsibly support the parent’s temporary stay in Australia under the 870 Visa program.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

Applicants for the 870 Visa must meet specific eligibility criteria to be considered for the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa. The applicant must be at least 18 years of age and be sponsored by an approved parent sponsor. They must also meet health, character, and security requirements. Additionally, applicants must not have engaged in any activities that involve paying for visa sponsorship, such as through illegal means. The applicant must be outside Australia at the time of application unless they have been invited in writing by the Department of Home Affairs to apply. If the applicant has previously held a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa, they must have been outside Australia for at least 90 days before reapplying. The applicant must also demonstrate that they are a parent, adoptive parent, or step-parent of the sponsor, who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Meeting these criteria ensures the applicant is eligible to apply for the 870 Visa and temporarily reunite with their family in Australia.

The Application Process

The 870 Visa application process is sponsor-led, requiring the sponsor to first apply for approval. Once approved, the parent can lodge their visa application online via ImmiAccount, attaching necessary documents.

5.1 Step 1: Sponsorship Application

The sponsorship application is the first step in the 870 Visa process. The sponsor, who must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, submits an online application via ImmiAccount. They must complete Form 1420 and pay the AUD 420 fee. The sponsor must meet income requirements, such as earning at least AUD 83,454.80 annually, and provide proof of financial stability. They also need to upload documents, including proof of citizenship or residency and evidence of their relationship with the applicant. Once submitted, the Department of Home Affairs reviews the application to ensure all eligibility criteria are met. If approved, the sponsor receives an approval letter, enabling the parent to proceed with their visa application. This step is crucial, as the parent cannot apply for the visa without an approved sponsor. The sponsorship process ensures compliance with Australia’s immigration policies and family reunification goals. Timely submission and accurate documentation are essential for a smooth approval process.

5.2 Step 2: Visa Application

Once the sponsorship is approved, the parent can proceed with the visa application. The parent must lodge their application online via ImmiAccount within 6 months of sponsorship approval if applying from offshore, or within 60 days if applying from onshore. The parent must provide proof of identity, including a valid passport and birth certificate, and evidence of their relationship with the sponsor, such as marriage certificates or adoption papers. If any incorrect information was provided, the parent must complete and sign Form 1023. All documents not in English must be accompanied by certified translations. The parent must also meet health and character requirements, including medical examinations and police clearances from all countries where they have lived. Failure to meet these requirements may result in visa denial. The visa application process ensures the parent meets all eligibility criteria and complies with Australia’s immigration policies. Timely submission and accurate documentation are critical for a successful outcome.

Required Documents for Sponsors

To sponsor a parent under the 870 Visa program, sponsors must provide specific documents to support their application. These include proof of Australian citizenship, permanent residency, or eligible New Zealand citizenship, such as a passport or certificate of citizenship. Financial stability evidence, like income statements, is also required to demonstrate the sponsor’s ability to support the parent during their stay. Additionally, sponsors must complete and sign the sponsorship agreement, which outlines their responsibilities. A completed Form 1420, the sponsorship application form, must be submitted online via ImmiAccount. Sponsors may also need to provide proof of their relationship with the applicant, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates. All documents must be uploaded to ImmiAccount as part of the online application process. Ensuring all required documents are accurate and complete is essential for a successful sponsorship application. Failure to provide necessary documentation may result in delays or rejection of the application.

Required Documents for Applicants

Applicants for the 870 Visa must provide specific documents to support their application. These include proof of identity, such as a valid passport and birth certificate. Additional documents, like marriage certificates or adoption papers, may be required to establish the relationship with the sponsor. Applicants must also complete and sign Form 1023 if any incorrect information was provided in the application. All documents must be certified translations if not in English. These documents are crucial for verifying eligibility and supporting the visa application process. Ensuring all required documents are accurate and complete is essential for a successful application. Failure to provide necessary documentation may result in delays or rejection of the application. The applicant must also meet health and character requirements, which may involve additional documentation, such as medical examination reports and police clearances. These requirements ensure compliance with Australia’s immigration policies and public safety standards.

Application Forms

The 870 Visa Sponsorship Application Form PDF is a critical document for sponsoring parents under the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa (Subclass 870). This form streamlines the application process, ensuring all necessary details are accurately provided. It is essential for both sponsors and applicants to complete this form correctly, as it serves as the foundation for the sponsorship application. The form can be easily downloaded in PDF format, making it accessible for applicants to fill out and submit online via ImmiAccount. It is crucial to ensure all sections are completed accurately, as any errors or omissions may delay the application process. The form includes sections for personal details, sponsorship information, and declarations, all of which are vital for a successful application. Applicants must also attach required documents, such as proof of identity and relationship evidence, along with the completed form. This ensures compliance with Australia’s immigration policies and facilitates a smooth application process.

Submitting the Application

Submitting the 870 Visa application involves a structured process to ensure all requirements are met. The sponsor must first create an ImmiAccount and complete the online sponsorship application, attaching all necessary documents. Once the sponsorship is approved, the parent can then lodge the visa application online. The application must be submitted within 6 months of sponsorship approval if applying from offshore, or within 60 days if applying from onshore. All required documents, including proof of identity, relationship evidence, and health and character clearances, must be uploaded to ImmiAccount. The application form should be filled out accurately, and any corrections must be accompanied by Form 1023. After submission, a confirmation receipt is generated, and the application is processed by the Department of Home Affairs. Ensuring the application is complete and accurate is crucial to avoid delays. The online platform streamlines the process, making it efficient for applicants to track their application status.

Fees and Costs

The 870 Visa sponsorship application involves specific fees and costs that must be considered. The main sponsorship application fee is AUD 420.00, paid by the sponsor, and is non-refundable. This fee covers the processing of the sponsorship application. Additional costs may include health examinations, police clearances, and document translation fees. These costs vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances and the number of required checks. The sponsor must also budget for potential expenses related to medical assessments and character clearances, which are mandatory for the visa process. It is important to ensure all fees are paid promptly to avoid delays in processing. The sponsor should review the total costs and plan accordingly to cover all expenses associated with the application. These fees and costs are essential to ensure the application meets the Department of Home Affairs’ requirements and progresses smoothly.

Health Requirements

Applicants for the 870 Visa must meet Australia’s health standards as part of the application process. This includes undergoing mandatory medical examinations to ensure they do not pose a risk to public health. The purpose of these health checks is to verify that the applicant has no medical conditions that could burden Australia’s healthcare system or endanger public health. Applicants are required to provide evidence of good health and complete any necessary vaccinations; Failure to meet these health requirements may result in the visa being denied. The Department of Home Affairs requires applicants to submit medical reports from approved health professionals. These reports must be recent and comprehensive, covering all relevant health aspects. Sponsors are not required to meet these health standards themselves, but the applicant’s health status is a critical factor in the visa decision. Ensuring compliance with these requirements is essential for a successful application.

Character Requirements

Applicants for the 870 Visa must meet strict character requirements to ensure they pose no risk to Australia’s community safety or public order. As part of the application process, applicants are required to provide police clearances from all countries where they have lived for 12 months or more since turning 16. These clearances must be recent and valid at the time of application. Additionally, applicants must sign a declaration confirming their good character and disclose any criminal history. Failure to meet these character requirements, such as having serious criminal convictions, can result in the visa being refused. The purpose of these checks is to ensure that applicants align with Australia’s values and do not pose a threat to national security or societal well-being. The Department of Home Affairs carefully reviews all submitted documents to assess the applicant’s character. It is essential for applicants to be truthful and transparent in their declarations, as any misrepresentation can lead to visa denial. These requirements are non-negotiable and are a critical part of the visa assessment process.

Processing Times

Processing times for the 870 Visa typically range from 12 to 18 months, depending on various factors. These include the completeness of the application, the speed of health and character checks, and the overall demand for the visa. Applications that are well-prepared and include all required documents tend to be processed more quickly. Delays can occur if additional documentation is requested or if there are complexities in the case. It is essential for applicants to ensure their application is thorough and meets all eligibility criteria to avoid unnecessary delays. The Department of Home Affairs prioritizes applications that are complete and compliant with requirements. Applicants should also be aware that global demand and resource availability can impact processing times. To minimize delays, sponsors and applicants must submit all necessary documents promptly and respond quickly to any requests for additional information. Keeping track of the application status through ImmiAccount can also help applicants stay informed about progress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When applying for the 870 Visa, several common mistakes can delay or complicate the process. One of the most frequent errors is submitting an incomplete application, which can lead to processing delays. Applicants often overlook attaching required documents, such as proof of identity, relationship evidence, or completed forms like Form 1023; Another mistake is missing deadlines, such as the timeframe for lodging the visa application after sponsorship approval. Applicants must apply within 6 months if lodging offshore or 60 days if lodging onshore. Additionally, some applicants fail to meet health or character requirements, which can result in visa refusal. It is also important to ensure that all documents are certified and translated into English if necessary. Sponsors sometimes underestimate the financial and accommodation obligations, which are critical for approval. Applicants should also avoid providing incorrect or misleading information, as this can lead to visa denial or legal consequences. Carefully reviewing the application and ensuring all requirements are met can help avoid these common pitfalls and ensure a smoother process.

Tips for a Successful Application

To ensure a successful 870 Visa application, it is essential to carefully prepare and submit all required documents. Start the process early to avoid delays, as processing times can range from 12 to 18 months. Use the ImmiAccount portal to lodge applications online, as this streamlines the process and reduces errors. Ensure all documents, such as proof of identity, relationship evidence, and financial stability, are complete and certified. Applicants must meet health and character requirements, so schedule medical examinations and gather police clearances well in advance. Double-check all information for accuracy to avoid visa denial due to incorrect or misleading details. Sponsors should also ensure they meet income requirements and provide adequate accommodation for the applicant. Budget for additional costs, such as document translations and health checks, to avoid financial setbacks. Finally, stay informed about visa conditions and obligations to ensure compliance throughout the process. By following these tips, applicants can improve their chances of a successful outcome.

Renewal and Extension Options

The 870 Visa allows parents to renew or extend their stay in Australia under specific conditions. Visa holders can apply for renewal either onshore or offshore, provided they continue to meet eligibility criteria. Parents who have held the visa for a cumulative maximum of 10 years must either depart Australia or apply for another visa. Renewal applications must be lodged within the allowed timeframe, typically before the current visa expires. Sponsors must maintain their approval status, and applicants must still meet health, character, and financial requirements. It is important to ensure all documents are updated and submitted correctly to avoid delays or rejection. Applicants should also be aware of any changes in visa policies or processing times when planning their renewal. By adhering to these guidelines, parents can continue to enjoy extended periods with their families in Australia while complying with immigration regulations.

Obligations of Sponsors

Sponsors play a crucial role in the 870 Visa program, with specific obligations to ensure compliance with Australian immigration policies. They must meet financial requirements, such as an annual income of at least AUD 83,454.80, and provide adequate accommodation for the sponsored parent. Sponsors are responsible for submitting the sponsorship application and paying the required fee. They must also ensure the applicant meets health, character, and security checks. Sponsors are obligated to maintain their approval status throughout the visa period and adhere to all conditions set by the Department of Home Affairs. Additionally, they must provide financial support and ensure the parent does not rely on public funds. Sponsors are required to submit necessary documents, such as Form 1420, and ensure all information provided is accurate. Failure to meet these obligations may result in visa denial or cancellation. Sponsors must also notify the Department of any changes in their circumstances that could affect the sponsorship. These obligations ensure the integrity of the program and the well-being of the sponsored parent during their stay in Australia.

Rights and Restrictions of Visa Holders

Holders of the Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) have the right to stay in Australia for up to 3 or 5 years, depending on the sponsorship arrangement. They can travel in and out of Australia during the visa validity period, allowing flexibility for personal and family commitments. Visa holders are permitted to study or work, but they cannot access public funds or certain government benefits. They must maintain valid health insurance to cover medical expenses during their stay. Visa holders are restricted from applying for permanent residency or other visas while in Australia, except in limited circumstances. They must comply with all visa conditions, including adhering to health and character requirements. Failure to meet these obligations may result in visa cancellation. The visa does not provide a pathway to permanent residency, emphasizing its temporary nature. Visa holders must ensure they do not overstay their visa period and must depart Australia before the visa expires or apply for a new visa if eligible. These conditions ensure the visa program aligns with its purpose of temporary family reunification while maintaining compliance with Australian immigration policies.

The Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa (Subclass 870) provides a valuable opportunity for parents to reunite with their children in Australia, offering stays of up to 3 or 5 years. This visa program is designed to balance family unity with Australia’s immigration policies, ensuring a structured and fair process. By requiring sponsorship from an approved family member, the program maintains integrity while allowing parents to experience life in Australia. The application process, though detailed, is streamlined with the use of the 870 Visa Sponsorship Application Form PDF, ensuring clarity and efficiency. While visa holders enjoy the freedom to travel and stay in Australia, they must adhere to specific conditions, such as maintaining health insurance and not accessing public funds. The program reflects Australia’s commitment to supporting families while upholding its immigration framework. For those seeking to bring their parents to Australia temporarily, the Subclass 870 visa offers a practical and organized solution, fostering meaningful connections while respecting the nation’s policies.