Remaining Relative
Visas (Subclass 115 & 835)
For individuals whose only near relatives live in Australia. Secure your permanent future and reunite with your family through this dedicated migration pathway.
Visa Type
Permanent PR
Full residency rights
Requirement
No Other Family
Outside Australia
Processing
Limited Places
Significant wait times
Base Fee
$5,125 AUD
Primary applicant
Understanding the Remaining Relative Visa
The Subclass 115 & 835 Visas are compassionate pathways created for individuals who find themselves alone in their home country while all of their near relatives are established in Australia.
To be eligible, you must prove that you have no other near relatives (such as parents, siblings, or non dependent children) living anywhere in the world except for Australia. Your near relatives in Australia must be citizens or permanent residents who are willing to sponsor you.
Given the strict definition of 'near relative' and the limited number of visas granted each year, this application requires meticulous planning and proof of your entire family tree. We help families map out these complex relationships and provide the high level of documentation needed for a successful grant.
Key Eligibility Criteria
The defining requirement of this visa is the absolute absence of near family abroad.
The Relationship Test
You must have NO parents, siblings, or non dependent children living outside of Australia. This includes step relatives. Every member of your 'near family' must be a resident of Australia.
Sponsorship Duties
- Eligible Sponsor: Your near relative in Australia must be a citizen or PR and agree to support you.
- Financial Guarantee: The sponsor must provide accommodation and financial support for your first 2 years.
Visa Details
Key Features of the 115/835 Visa
Explore the permanent residency rights granted by these family visas.
Join Your Only Family
This visa is for people who have no near relatives living outside of Australia. It allows you to move permanently to be with the only family you have left.
Outcome
Permanent Residency
Key Detail
Must have no near relatives outside Australia.
Future Potential
Direct route to family reunification and a stable future.
Eligibility Benchmarks
Before you apply, ensure you satisfy these foundational criteria.
No near family abroad
No parents, siblings or children living outside of Australia.
Eligible Sponsor
Relative in Australia must be a citizen, PR or NZ citizen.
Financial Support
Sponsor must meet accommodation and support obligations.
Health & Character
Pass mandatory medical screenings and provide clean police records.
Roadmap
The Migration Journey
A simplified guide from applying to living permanently in Australia.
Documentation
Gather a full family tree and proof of near relative status.
Lodgement
Submit your 115 or 835 application and pay the upfront fee.
Verifications
Complete medical exams and submit international police checks.
Visa Grant
Receive your PR and move to Australia to be with your only near family.
Critical Advice
Remaining relative visas are strictly defined by current status:
- Near Relative Definition: The Department is very strict. If you have even one sibling or parent living anywhere outside Australia, you are ineligible.
- Queue Wait: Because places are extremely capped, be prepared for a wait time that can exceed several years.
- Bridging Status: Applying onshore (835) can give you a Bridging Visa to stay in Australia during the wait, which is a major advantage.
Application Costs
*Excludes medical exams, police clearances, and document translation fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is all your near family in Australia?
The Remaining Relative visa is a unique path home. Our specialists will ensure your documentation is perfect to prove your eligibility.