If you’re planning to bring your parents to Australia, it’s important to understand how Australia’s Parent Visa system works. These visas are subject to capping and queuing, which means there’s a limit to how many visas can be issued each year, and applications are processed in order of submission.
Here’s everything you need to know about Parent Visa processing times, queue dates, and updates for 2025.
Types of Parent Visas Covered by Capping & Queuing
The following Australian Parent Visas fall under the queueing system:
- Parent Visa (Subclass 103)
- Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804)
- Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143 and 173)
- Contributory Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 864 and 884)
What is Visa Capping and Queuing?
Capping means there’s a maximum number of visas the Department of Home Affairs can grant in each migration program year (from July to June).
Once the cap is reached, the remaining applications are placed in a queue, waiting for the next program year to become available.
How Are Parent Visa Applications Queued?
Applications are assessed in the order they are received. Here’s how it works:
- When a valid visa application is submitted, the Department checks whether it meets the basic eligibility requirements – including health and character checks.
- If the application is complete and meets the criteria, it is assigned a queue date.
- Applicants are then notified in writing of their queue placement.
Note: If you applied for a Contributory Parent Visa before June 1, 2018, your queue date is the date your application was lodged. For others, the queue date is when your application is confirmed to meet all criteria.
If your application does not meet the visa requirements, it may be refused.
Current Queue Release Dates (as of May 31, 2025)
The Department is currently releasing the following applications for final processing:
| Visa Type | Applications Lodged Up To |
|---|---|
| Contributory Parent (Subclass 143) | April 2018 |
| Contributory Parent (Temporary 173) | May 2018 |
| Contributory Aged Parent (864/884) | May 2018 |
| Parent Visa (103) | December 2012 |
| Aged Parent Visa (804) | January 2013 |
Stay updated on these dates, as they’re revised based on the yearly migration quota.
Visa Processing Times in 2025
Processing times for Parent Visas in Australia are lengthy due to high demand and limited spots.
Parent Visa applications go through two stages:
- Initial Assessment – to decide if the application is eligible for the queue.
- Final Processing – once a spot becomes available.
Estimated Parent Visa Processing Times
| Visa Type | Estimated Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Contributory Parent Visas (143, 173) | Up to 14 years |
| Non-Contributory Parent Visas (103, 804) | Up to 31 years |
These timelines are estimates and can change yearly based on available migration spots.
Why Processing Times Vary
Several factors can affect your visa processing time:
- Changes in migration planning levels
- Number of applications received or withdrawn
- Outcomes from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal
- Ministerial interventions
- Changes in visa processing policies
- Completeness of your application
- Time taken to respond to requests for additional documents
- Health, character, and security checks
Important Notes for Applicants
- The Department does not respond to individual visa status inquiries due to the high volume of applications.
- Updates are provided only in writing when your visa is ready for the final stage.
- If you’re applying now, your processing time will depend on:
- The visa type you choose
- Your queue position
- Current program allocations
Stay Informed
You can visit the Parent Visa Centre or contact the Department for general inquiries, but individual application updates will be provided only when your application reaches its turn.
Conclusion: Plan Ahead for Your Parent’s Visa
Bringing your parents to Australia is a beautiful goal, but it requires careful planning and patience. Understanding the queue system, visa caps, and processing times helps you set realistic expectations and plan your family reunion better.
If you are aiming for a faster outcome, Contributory Parent Visas (despite the higher cost) usually have shorter waiting periods than non-contributory options.
For the latest updates and help with documentation, it’s highly recommended to consult with a registered migration agent.
