For many migrants, the decision to move to Australia is deeply personal—often driven by the desire to be near family. But what if you’re the sole surviving family member residing abroad, while your close relatives have all established themselves in Australia? The Remaining Relative Visa specifically caters to this situation.
This article explores the two main visa subclasses—Remaining Relative Visa 115 and Remaining Relative Visa 835—including eligibility, benefits, processing time, and how a trusted remaining relative visa agent in Brisbane can help you navigate the application process.
What Is the Remaining Relative Visa?
The Remaining Relative Visa allows individuals to migrate permanently to Australia if all of their close family members are already living there as citizens or permanent residents. It’s a compassionate option that recognizes the emotional hardship of being the last family member living overseas.
There are two types of remaining relative visas:
- Subclass 115—Offshore application
- Subclass 835 – Onshore application
Remaining Relative Visa 115 (Offshore)
The Remaining Relative Visa 115 is for individuals who are living outside of Australia and want to join their remaining family in the country.
Key Features:
- Both the application and the visa’s grant must occur outside of Australia.
- A sponsor, who is usually a close family member, is required.
- This visa grants permanent residency.
The remaining relative visa, 1visa, 115,deal for those who have never lived in Australia but whose close relatives (parents, siblings) have all migrated.
Remaining Relative Visa 835 (Onshore)
The Remaining Relative Visa 835 is intended for individuals who are already in Australia on a valid visa and wish to apply for permanent residency to stay with their family.
Key Features:
- You must be in Australia both at the time of application and visa grant.
- You m You must possess a valid visa that does not impose any conditions on your permanent stay. Sponsorship from an eligible relative is a prerequisite.
- The remaining relative visa, 835, permits individuals to remain lawfully in Australia while their application undergoes processing.
Your application undergoes processing.
Who Is Eligible for a Remaining Relative Visa?
To apply for either visa, you must:
- I do not have any close family members living outside Australia.
- Be the sibling, step-sibling, or child of an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- Be sponsored by an eligible relative (or their partner).
- Meet health and character requirements You must not possess or have previously held a visa that prevents
- a that prevents you from applying onshore (for Subclass 835).
You must also prove that your only near relatives live permanently in Australia. This can involve documentation like birth certificates, family records,’snd even evidence of no relatives elsewhere.
What’s the Remaining Relative Visa Processing Time?
The remaining relative visa processing time can be lengthy. Both subclass 115 and 835 are part of Australia’s Family Migration program and are subject to annual caps and queues.
- Estimated waiting time: 10 to 20 years
- Factors affecting wait time:
- Number of applications ahead in the queue
- Government planning levels
- Completeness of your apple specially important
Because of the long processing time, it’s especially important that your application is complete and correctly submitted. This is where a remaining relative’s visa agent in Brisbane can make a big difference.
Benefits of the Remaining Relative Visa Australia
Despite the long wait, there are significant benefits once the visa is granted:
- Permanent residency: Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Medicare access: Receive Australia’s public healthcare benefits.
- Path to citizenship: You can apply for citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
- Family reunion: Live close to your loved ones without visa restrictions.
Reuniting with close family, especially for those truly isolated outside Australia, is an emotionally fulfilling option.
Why Use a Remaining Relative Visa Agent in Brisbane?
Applying for a remaining relative visa—especially with its long wait and strict requirements—can be complex and emotionally draining. A remaining relative visa agent in Brisbane can assist by:
- Confirming your eligibility and visa subclass
- Preparing all supporting documents correctly
- Lodging a strong application
- Keeping you updated throughout the long waiting period
- Advising on bridging visas (especially for onshore applicants)
Choosing a MARA-registered migration agent in Brisbane ensures you’re working with a qualified professional who understands the emotional and legal aspects of family migration.
Final Thoughts
The Remaining Relative Visa Australia—whether you’re applying under Subclass 115 or Subclass 835—offers a vital opportunity for those left behind to reunite with family. While the remaining relative visa processing time is undeniably long, the end result is permanent residency and the priceless reward of being it’s essential to start early, gather all required documentation, and consult with an experienced,
all required documentation, and consult an experienced remaining relative visa agent in Brisbane to guide you through the process.
