As the 2025–26 financial year officially begins, Australia’s immigration policies have undergone another round of adjustments. For families planning to sponsor their parents for migration, the following two key changes require close attention:

1. Parent Visa Application Fees Increase by 3%

From the new financial year onwards, application fees for several parent visa categories — including 143, 864, 173, 884, 103 and 804 — have been raised by approximately 3%. Updated fees for main and secondary applicants are as follows:

While the increase may seem modest, the overall cost can rise significantly for families applying together or opting for faster processing. It’s advisable to budget ahead and plan your finances carefully to avoid delays due to unexpected cost changes.

2. AOS Income Threshold Rises by 2.4%

For those intending to sponsor a parent visa, the Assurance of Support (AOS) remains a crucial part of the process. From 1 July 2025, the minimum annual income requirement for AOS sponsors has increased by around 2.4%.

Here are some updated benchmarks (pre-tax income):

AOS assessments have become more stringent, and many applications are refused due to failure to provide valid pre-tax income documents or misunderstanding the Department’s evaluation criteria. If your initial submission is refused, you have 14 days to respond with further evidence — we strongly recommend consulting a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer to ensure your supporting documents meet all requirements and avoid permanent rejection.

How to Prepare?

• Assess your financial readiness and application timeline. For families considering the 143 visa, it’s best to begin preparations 2–3 years in advance.
• Visa options vary significantly in terms of costs, waiting periods, and whether permanent residency is available. Select the one most suited to your family’s needs.
• Ensure all income documents meet the Department of Home Affairs’ format and standards. Avoid submitting estimates or documents that don’t meet specifications.
• As immigration policies continue to tighten, it’s wise to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and start the process early to avoid missing out.

If you have any questions or would like professional assistance, please feel free to contact us at Riverwood Migration (Email: enquiry@riverwoodmigration.com). We are committed to providing transparent, expert migration services to help you achieve your dream of moving to Australia.

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