Family migration Australia

Subclass 173Contributory Parent Visa (Temporary)

A 2-year temporary visa allowing parents to be in Australia while the permanent Subclass 143 is processed.


Overview

The Subclass 173 is a stepping-stone visa granting parents a 2-year stay in Australia with full work rights while their permanent 143 application progresses through the queue.

Once in Australia on the 173, you can apply for the permanent 143 from onshore. F4MG advises on staging strategy to minimise time waiting overseas.


What this visa offers

Family reunification

Join children in Australia.

Temporary stay

Up to 2 years' visit.

Multiple entries

Frequent entry, exit flexibility.

Cultural exchange

Experience Australian lifestyle.

Family bonding

Strengthen relationships, connections.

Pathway to permanence

Upgrade to permanent visa (subclass 143).

Leisure activities

Enjoy holidays, recreation.

Aged care

Access healthcare, support.


Ready to Apply for a Contributory Parent Temporary Visa?

F4MG's migration legal practitioners guide you from assessment to grant.

Book a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

The Subclass 173 is a temporary visa that allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia for up to 2 years. It is the first step in the contributory parent pathway, leading to the permanent Subclass 143 Contributory Parent Visa.
The 173 visa involves a two-stage payment. The first instalment is paid at the time of application and covers the temporary visa. The second, significantly larger instalment (the contributory charge) is paid when you are invited to apply for the permanent 143 visa. The total cost across both stages is substantial. F4MG provides a full cost breakdown during your consultation.
Yes. The Subclass 173 visa grants full work rights in Australia. You can work for any employer in any occupation while holding this visa.
Processing times for parent visas are lengthy due to high demand and limited places. The 173 contributory pathway is significantly faster than the non-contributory parent queue, but processing can still take 2–5 years depending on current Department workloads. F4MG monitors processing times and keeps you updated throughout.
The 173 is a temporary visa valid for 2 years. During that period, you apply for the Subclass 143 Contributory Parent (Permanent) Visa and pay the second instalment of the contributory charge. Once the 143 is granted, you become a permanent resident of Australia.

Become Our Partner

Join the F4MG partner network and scale your business while we become your trusted backend. Let our Australian migration legal practitioners handle documentation and lodgement with compliance.

Become Our Partner

© 2026 F4MG All Rights Reserved