Author: Tomas Rincon- Immigration Lawyer
Parent visa Australia: online lodgement now available
Australia has introduced a significant administrative update to its parent visa program, with selected applications now required to be lodged online through ImmiAccount. This change is aimed at improving efficiency and modernising how visa applications are managed, moving more toward digital processing.
Which parent visas are now online
Applicants for several permanent Parent visa pathways must lodge their applications electronically.
These include:
- Parent visa (subclass 103)
- Aged Parent visa (subclass 804)
- Contributory Parent visa (subclass 143)
- Contributory Aged Parent visa (subclass 864)
The online lodgement introduces a more streamlined process, allowing applicants to submit and manage applications digitally rather than relying on traditional delivery methods.
Limited circumstances for paper applications
While online lodgement is now the standard approach, paper applications have not been entirely removed. Applicants may still be permitted to lodge a paper application, but only where there are verified technical issues preventing access to ImmiAccount. In these cases, formal approval must be obtained before proceeding with a paper submission. This ensures that exceptions remain tightly controlled and do not undermine the transition to digital processing.
Temporary parent visas remain unchanged
Not all parent visa categories are affected by this update.
Applications for the following temporary visas must still be submitted via paper forms:
- Contributory Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 173)
- Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) visa (subclass 884)
This reflects the current system limitations, where certain visa streams continue to operate under existing lodgement processes.
Transitional arrangements for applications
Timing remains an important consideration for applicants and sponsors. Where an application was sent before 22 April 2026 but received after this date, it will continue to be assessed under the previous arrangements. This ensures that applicants are not disadvantaged during the transition period.
What this means for applicants and families
Although the update does not change visa eligibility requirements, it introduces practical improvements to how applications are submitted and processed.
The move to online lodgement is expected to:
- Reduce administrative delays associated with postal handling
- Improve visibility and tracking of applications
- Provide a more efficient and consistent application experience
For families planning to apply for a parent visa, this change highlights the importance of understanding current lodgement requirements and preparing applications accordingly.
A continued shift toward digital immigration systems
This update reflects a broader trend within Australia’s immigration system, where digital platforms are becoming central to application management. However, the continued use of paper-based processes for certain visa categories demonstrates that the transition is still evolving, with a hybrid system remaining in place for now.
Applicants should ensure they are using the correct lodgement method based on their visa subclass and the timing of their application. Using the wrong submission method may result in delays or the application not being accepted, making it essential to stay aligned with current requirements. If you need advice or guidance, contact our Immigration Lawyers at admin@absoluteimmigrationlegal.com.