Unpacking the Balance of Family Test: Your Guide to Parent Visa Eligibility!

Zhanna Heenan

Parent Visa

Why Is There a Balance of Family Test?

The Australian government limits the number of parent visas each year. To prioritise these visas, the Balance of Family test ensures that visas are granted to parents who have a significant connection to Australia. This connection is measured by how many of their children live in Australia compared to other countries.

What Is the Balance of Family Test?

The Balance of Family test evaluates whether at least half of your children live in Australia. These children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens who usually live in Australia. This is to confirm that you, as a parent, have strong ties to Australia through your children.

Examples of the Test:

– If a parent has four children, two of whom are Australian citizens and two who live abroad, this parent passes the test.

– If another parent has three children, one an Australian citizen, one a temporary resident in Australia, and one living overseas, this parent does not pass the test.

Special Cases:

– Parents applying for a Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143/864) or an Aged Parent visa (subclass 804/884) under certain conditions may not need to meet this test.

Who Counts as an Eligible Child?

– An eligible child is defined as someone who is an Australian citizen, a permanent resident living in Australia, or an eligible New Zealand citizen residing in Australia.

– Children on temporary visas or living abroad are considered ineligible.

Important Points:

– The test applies to all children and stepchildren of the parent and their current or former partners.

– The test counts children regardless of their dependency status or whether they live with the parent.

– Special exceptions apply, such as children who cannot be contacted or those who are in a country where they face persecution.

Application and Regulations:

– This test must be satisfied at the time of application for the visa.

– Changes effective from July 1, 2011, ensure that all children and stepchildren are counted, using a standard definition for stepchildren.

The Balance of Family test is a critical part of assessing eligibility for parent visas, ensuring that those who have the closest ties to Australia through their children are prioritised for migration. This helps maintain the integrity and fairness of the migration program while supporting family reunification in Australia.  If you require assistance with determining your eligibility for a Parent visa or lodging your visa application, book an appointment with Heenan & Browne Visa Migration Services. Our migration agents in Canberra, Cairns, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne are ready to assist.

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