The Parent Visa Subclass 103 Explained offers a pathway for parents of Australian citizens and permanent residents to settle permanently in Australia. While it’s one of the more affordable options in the parent visa category, the trade-off is the extremely long waiting time. In 2025, applicants are still facing decades-long waits due to annual caps and high demand.
So, how long does it take to get a Parent Visa Subclass 103 in 2025? Let’s explore current processing trends, why the wait is so long, and what families can do in the meantime.
What Is the Parent Visa Subclass 103?
The Parent Visa Subclass 103 is a non-contributory permanent visa that allows parents of eligible Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to migrate to Australia. It is designed for families that want long-term reunification without the high financial contribution required for other parent visa subclasses (like 143 or 173).
Estimated Waiting Time in 2025
As of 2025, the estimated waiting time for the parent visa subclass 103 is 25 to 30 years.
This is not an exaggeration. The Australian Government places a strict annual cap on non-contributory parent visas — typically around 1,500 to 2,000 places per year — while thousands of applications are lodged each year. This creates a substantial backlog and a first-come, first-served queue system.
In fact, many applications currently being processed were lodged more than 20 years ago.
Why Is the Waiting Time So Long?
There are several reasons why the waiting period for the parent visa subclass 103 is so lengthy:
1. Annual Capping and Queuing
The Australian Government limits how many parent visas can be granted annually. Once the cap is reached, no more visas are processed until the next year.
2. High Demand
Many families want to bring parents to Australia permanently, and the non-contributory nature of the subclass 103 visa makes it more accessible. This results in a large volume of applications.
3. Priority to Contributory Visas
The Department of Home Affairs prioritises contributory parent visa subclasses (such as 143) because applicants pay a significantly higher fee, which offsets healthcare and settlement costs.
Can You Speed Up the Process?
Unfortunately, there is no way to fast-track a parent visa subclass 103 application. It is processed in strict order of queue placement.
However, if your family can afford it, you may consider switching to a Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143 or 173), which has shorter processing times — often between 3 to 6 years.
Temporary Options While Waiting
If your parent is waiting offshore for the subclass 103 copyright be processed, you might consider the following:
1. Visitor Visas
Parents can apply for long-stay visitor visas (subclass 600) to visit Australia periodically, although these do not allow for permanent residency or Medicare access.2. Bridging Visas (Limited Cases)
If the subclass 103 visa is lodged while the parent is onshore and holds another valid visa, they may qualify for a Bridging Visa to remain in Australia during processing. However, this is rare since most subclass 103 applications are made offshore.
Assurance of Support (AoS)
Closer to the visa grant, the sponsor may be asked to provide an Assurance of Support (AoS), a financial bond to ensure the parent does not rely on public funds upon arrival. Make sure to plan ahead for this step during the long waiting period.
Conclusion
The parent visa subclass 103 offers a valuable opportunity for permanent reunification with parents in Australia, but families must be prepared for a waiting period of 25 to 30 years in 2025. For those who cannot afford a contributory visa, it remains a valid option, but patience and long-term planning are essential.