Long Stay Visitor Visa Australia

How to Secure a Long Stay Visitor Visa for Parents in Australia

If you are wondering how long parents can stay on visitor visa in Australia, you are on the right blog page.

This visa, also known as a Subclass 600 Visa (Tourist stream), allows parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Australia for extended periods with multiple entries.

Similar to the visitor visa subclass 600 under the tourist stream, the long stay visitor visa allows multiple entries to Australia. However, holders can stay for a maximum total stay of 18 months, which means they cannot stay in Australia for the entire validity period continuously.

This visa, though, is also distinct from the family-sponsored visitor visa, which offers a maximum stay of 12 months but caters only to sponsored visits.

Holders of this via are not allowed to apply for other visas (except for a Protection visa) while inside Australia. However, it is important to note that granting this longer visa is at the discretion of the immigration authorities and is considered on a case-by-case basis.

Planning a Long Stay in Australia? Visa Requirements Uncovered!

To be eligible, you must be the parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Then, you need to meet these requirements:

Genuine Temporary Entrant

This requirement is crucial because it shows your genuine intention to leave Australia upon your visa’s expiration. The Australian government aims to ensure that the Long Stay Visitor Visa program is not used as a backdoor for permanent residency.

To fulfil this requirement, you will need to provide evidence of strong ties with your home country. It can include permanent employment, property ownership, business ventures, or family responsibilities that can back your motivation to return home. 

You also need to present a detailed itinerary that outlines your activities and duration of stay in Australia to strengthen your application.

Evidence of Sufficient Funds

To make sure that you have adequate financial resources for your entire stay in the country, you will need to present bank statements, income tax returns, or evidence of sponsorships. All of these should reflect that you are capable of financially supporting yourself in the duration of your stay in Australia.

Character and Health Checks

These checks aim to safeguard public safety and health standards. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be required to undergo character checks. It involves police checks from your home country and potentially from Australia to verify your record.

You also need to go through complete health examinations which typically involve basic checks to ensure that you do not pose a health risk to the Australian community.

Long Stay Visitor Visa: Fees, Wait Times & What to Expect!

The cost of this visa starts at AU$ 195. This does not yet include other charges that may be incurred in getting police certifications, health examinations, and other fees.

The processing times are valuable but are generally considered faster compared to Parent visa options. The turnaround time typically depends on the volume of application, completeness and accuracy of requirements, and the circumstances of your case.

Need Help Processing Your Visa Requirements?

When applying for a long-stay visa, or any visa for that matter, can be a complex and intricate process. Immigration laws constantly evolve and the specific requirements for eligibility can be complicated. At Parish Patience, we offer invaluable assistance throughout the process. Here is how:

Expertise and Guidance

A Parish Patience, an experienced immigration lawyer can analyse your situation and then guide you towards the most suitable visa option for your desired length of stay. They will then advise on whether temporary or permanent residency pathways are more appropriate for your long-term goals. They have deep knowledge of the Australian regulations, policies, and precedents that allow them to build your application strong. They will also help you avoid the common pitfalls that might delay your application.

Tailored Application Strategy

Our lawyers can provide instructions on the specific evidence for your visa. In short, they will simplify all the documentation process to ensure that everything is in order. As they know how to present applications strategically, they will highlight your strengths and also address any potential concerns that may become a roadblock along the way.

Efficient Application Process

Parish Patience experts will assemble and review all your required documents to catch inconsistencies. To do this, they will ensure that all forms are filled out correctly and truthfully and that your application is compelling. They will also make sure to work within the strict deadlines provided by the authorities to avoid delays in your application.

Communication and Representation

They will handle all communications with the immigration authorities on your behalf. This will remove the stress of going through the hectic process and will ensure that you remain informed all throughout.

Advocacy and Appeals

If for some reason that your application is initially rejected, our Parish Patience lawyer can expertly analyse the situation and then file an appeal on your behalf. They will be your legal advocate who will present a strong argument so you can appeal for reconsideration.

Let Parish Patience help you with your long-stay visa application. Book a consultation with us today.