Parent Migration: How Elderly Parents Who Don't Meet Balance-of-Family Test Can Migrate to Australia
Australia's Subclass 838 (Aged Dependent Relative Visa) and Subclass 114 (Aged Dependent Relative Visa) are permanent residency visas designed for:
✔ Elderly single individuals
✔ Who have been financially dependent on an Australian relative for at least 3 years
This visa grants permanent residency in Australia, including access to key benefits.
Key Advantages
✅ No Balance-of-Family Test Required
Unlike other parent visas, applicants don’t need more children in Australia than overseas.
✅ Access to Medicare & Social Welfare
Eligible for Medicare and other government benefits.
✅ Work & Study Rights
No restrictions on employment or education.
Eligibility Requirements
1. Applicant Criteria
Marital Status: Must be single (never married, widowed, divorced, or permanently separated).
Age: Must meet Australia’s pension age (currently 67+).
Financial Dependency: Must prove 3+ years of reliance on an Australian relative for basic needs (food, shelter, clothing).
Health & Character: Must pass medical exams and provide police clearance.
2. Sponsor Criteria
Must be 18+ years old.
Must be an Australian citizen, PR, or eligible NZ citizen settled in Australia.
3. Visa Application Fee: AUD $5,125
Difference Between Subclass 838 & 114
Feature |
Subclass 838 (Onshore) |
Subclass 114 (Offshore) |
Application Location |
Must apply inside Australia (e.g., on a visitor visa). |
Must apply outside Australia. |
Bridging Visa |
Eligible for a bridging visa (can stay in Australia while waiting). |
No bridging visa—must wait offshore. |
Processing Time |
Slow (limited annual quota). |
Similar delays, but no onshore waiting option. |
Who Should Apply?
✔ Single elderly parents financially dependent on an Australian child.
✔ Families who can’t meet the Balance-of-Family Test for standard parent visas.
Need help assessing eligibility? Consult a registered migration agent.