Applying for the Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa is a big step toward reuniting with your loved ones in Australia. But after submitting your application, the wait can feel long and uncertain—especially since processing times can range from 6 to 13 months in 2025. While you wait, it’s important to stay proactive, organised, and informed.
Here’s a guide on what you can do while waiting for your 870 Parent Visa, so you’re fully prepared for the next stage and making the most of your time during the processing period.
🧾 1. Stay Connected to Your ImmiAccount
Once your application is lodged, all communication from the Department of Home Affairs will come through your ImmiAccount. Missing a request for further information (RFI) can significantly delay your application—or lead to rejection.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Log in to your ImmiAccount at least once a week to check for updates.
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Ensure your email and contact details are correct and regularly monitored.
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Respond promptly if the Department requests additional documents.
Even if there are no updates, staying engaged keeps you alert for any important changes.
🧹 2. Organise All Supporting Documents in One Place
Even after submission, it’s possible the Department may ask for more information, clarification, or updated documents. Preparing in advance ensures you can respond quickly.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Keep digital copies of all key documents (police clearances, medical results, ID, sponsorship approval letter, etc.).
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Organise your files in folders and label them clearly (e.g., “Health check – Parent 1”, “AFP police clearance”).
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If any documents are due to expire soon, begin arranging renewals.
Having everything ready can save weeks if you’re asked to submit anything additional.
👩⚕️ 3. Complete Your Health and Character Checks (If Not Already Done)
Some parents wait to complete their medical exams and obtain police clearances until after the Department requests them—but this can cause unnecessary delays.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Book your health assessment with a panel doctor early (after lodging your visa).
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Apply for police checks from any country lived in for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.
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Upload these documents through ImmiAccount as soon as they’re available.
These requirements are essential for visa approval and processing can’t move forward without them.
📅 4. Make Travel Plans — But Don’t Book Yet
It’s tempting to book flights and plan visits ahead of time, but until your visa is granted, it’s risky to commit to travel dates. However, there are some things you can prepare for:
✅ What You Can Do:
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Discuss ideal travel windows with your sponsor (child/family in Australia).
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Research health insurance options—this is a visa condition for Subclass 870.
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Check vaccination requirements or travel restrictions (if any) in 2025.
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Prepare a checklist of personal items, medicines, or legal matters you need to handle before departure.
Planning ahead ensures you’re ready to go when the visa is approved—but always wait for confirmation before booking flights.
💻 5. Educate Yourself on Visa Conditions
Once granted, the 870 Parent Visa has strict conditions you must comply with to remain lawful in Australia.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Learn about Condition 8103 (no work)—you cannot work while on this visa.
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Understand the health insurance requirement and compare policies suited for temporary parents.
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Note the visa expiry date and stay limit (3 or 5 years as granted).
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Plan for future renewals—remember, the maximum cumulative stay on this visa is 10 years, with no pathway to permanent residency under this stream.
Being informed now helps avoid compliance issues later.
👨👩👧 6. Stay Connected with Your Sponsor
The sponsor (usually your child) also has responsibilities under the 870 visa. Keeping communication open ensures that both of you remain compliant and well-prepared.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Discuss living arrangements in Australia.
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Confirm that your sponsor’s financial situation and accommodation details remain unchanged, as this could affect future renewals.
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Share updates with each other on any Department communication.
This ensures both applicant and sponsor are aligned and ready for the next stage of the process.
🧳 7. Begin Emotional and Practical Preparation for the Move
Waiting can feel long, but it’s the perfect time to prepare yourself emotionally and practically for living in Australia.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Learn about the local area where you’ll be living—Newcastle, Brisbane, Sydney, etc.
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Brush up on basic English communication, if needed.
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Connect with local community groups or cultural associations online.
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Think about what you’ll need to bring—and what you can leave behind.
This will help make your transition smoother once you arrive in Australia.
🧭 Bonus Tip: Consider Other Visa Pathways (If Applicable)
While the 870 visa is temporary, some parents explore long-term pathways, such as permanent parent visas (subclass 143 or 804). These often have long waiting periods but may be worth discussing if your family’s plans are long-term.
✅ What You Can Do:
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Talk to a migration agent to explore future options.
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Review eligibility for permanent or contributory parent visas.
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Plan financially for future visa applications.
🗨 Final Thoughts
Waiting for your 870 Parent Visa doesn’t have to be idle time. By staying organised, responding promptly to updates, completing essential checks, and preparing for your life in Australia, you make the most of the processing period—and reduce the risk of avoidable delays.
