Parent Visa Applications Move Online

The Australian Government has introduced an update to how Parent visa applications are lodged. Under the Migration (Arrangements for Parent Visa Applications) Instrument 2026 (LIN 26/005), several permanent Parent visa subclasses can now be submitted online through ImmiAccount.

What’s Changed

Applicants for the following visas can now lodge online:

• Parent (Migrant) (Class AX)
• Aged Parent (Residence) (Class BP)
• Contributory Parent (Migrant) (Class CA)
• Contributory Aged Parent (Residence) (Class DG)

Previously, these applications relied heavily on paper forms sent by post or courier. The move to online lodgement is designed to simplify submission and reduce delays caused by manual processing.

When Paper Applications Are Still Allowed

Paper lodgement has not been completely removed, but it is now limited to exceptional cases. This includes situations where ImmiAccount is unavailable due to verified technical issues. In such cases, applicants must request permission through the system before submitting a paper application.

What Has Not Changed

Temporary Parent visas are unaffected:

• Contributory Parent (Temporary) (Class UT)
• Contributory Aged Parent (Temporary) (Class UU)

These applications must still be submitted in paper form.

Replacement of Previous Rules

This new instrument replaces IMMI 18/079, which governed Parent visa application arrangements since 2018.

Final Take

This update is a clear step toward modernising Australia’s migration system. It removes unnecessary friction at the application stage, but it does not address deeper issues such as long processing times and visa backlogs. For applicants, the main benefit is a simpler and more reliable way to lodge applications.