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Short Description: Complete guide to Australia’s Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115): eligibility, queue realities, costs, documents, process, rights, risks, and official sources.

Last Verified On: 2026-03-16

Visa Snapshot

The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) is an Australian permanent family visa for a person who is outside Australia and whose only near relatives usually live in Australia as Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.

It exists to support family reunion in very limited circumstances where an applicant is effectively left without close family outside Australia.

This visa is meant for people who: – are outside Australia when applying and when the visa is granted, and – have an eligible sponsor in Australia, and – meet the strict “remaining relative” test.

In Australia’s immigration system, this is a permanent migration visa in the Family stream. It is not a visitor visa, not a temporary permit, and not an eTA/ETA. Australia generally issues visas digitally, so in practice it is an electronic visa grant/status linked to the passport rather than a physical visa label.

Official naming

• Long name: Remaining Relative Visa
• Subclass/code: Subclass 115
• Commonly confused with:
• Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 835) — onshore version
• Aged Parent Visa
• Carer Visa
• Other Family visas

Core reality

This visa is legally available, but it is part of the capped and queued family visa categories. In practice, this means very long processing times, often measured in many years, because places are limited annually.

Warning: Many people qualify in principle but are surprised by the queue. This is one of the most important practical realities of Subclass 115.

2. Who should apply for this visa?

Best fit applicants

This visa is best for someone who: – is outside Australia – has no near relatives living outside Australia – has all or almost all close family in Australia – wants permanent migration – is prepared for a very long wait – has an eligible sponsor in Australia

Typical suitable applicant profile

• An adult whose parents, siblings, or step-equivalent near relatives all usually live in Australia
• A person with no partner and no dependent child living outside Australia
• A person seeking permanent family reunion rather than short-term travel

Who should generally not use this visa?

This is not the right visa for most people researching Australia for travel, study, work, or business.

Better alternatives by situation

Category-by-category suitability

• Tourists: Not suitable.
• Business visitors: Not suitable.
• Job seekers: Not suitable.
• Employees: Not suitable unless they independently qualify under the family test.
• Students: Not suitable for study as the main purpose.
• Spouses/partners: Usually partner visa is more suitable.
• Children/dependents: Only if eligible to be included; otherwise child-specific routes may exist.
• Researchers/digital nomads/founders/investors/artists/athletes/religious workers: Usually not suitable unless they independently meet the family criteria and want permanent migration.
• Transit passengers/medical travelers/diplomats: Not suitable.

3. What is this visa used for?

Permitted purpose

The main permitted purpose is:

• Permanent family reunion in Australia for a person who qualifies as a remaining relative.

Because it is a permanent visa, once granted the holder can generally: – live in Australia permanently – work in Australia – study in Australia – enroll in Medicare if eligible under Australian rules – travel in and out of Australia during the travel facility period – later pursue citizenship if eligible

Not the intended use for

This is not designed for: – short tourism – attending meetings only – temporary work – remote work as a visitor workaround – short-term internship – transit – temporary medical treatment travel – a quick route into Australia while later deciding what to do

Grey areas and misunderstandings

Can someone use this because they “have relatives in Australia”?

No. The rule is much narrower. You must meet the remaining relative definition, not just have family in Australia.

Can it be used as a faster route than partner/skilled/student visas?

No. In practice, it is often much slower due to queueing.

Can it be used to enter Australia quickly and wait there?

No. Subclass 115 is the offshore version. You must be outside Australia at application and grant.

4. Official visa classification and naming

Official program name

• Australian Government permanent Family visa
• Visa subclass: 115

Related visa in the same concept

• Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 835) — onshore equivalent for eligible applicants in Australia

Older/current naming

The visa remains publicly referred to as the Remaining Relative visa. The subclass number identifies the exact route.

Categories people confuse it with

5. Eligibility criteria

Core official eligibility

To be eligible for Subclass 115, the applicant generally must:

• be outside Australia when applying
• be outside Australia when the visa is granted
• have a sponsor
• be a remaining relative
• meet health requirements
• meet character requirements
• sign the Australian values statement if required
• have paid any outstanding debts to the Australian Government or arranged repayment
• not have had a visa cancelled or application refused in a way that bars grant, where relevant

The “remaining relative” test

This is the heart of the visa.

The applicant must show that: – their near relatives are usually resident in Australia, and – those relatives are Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens, and – the applicant has no near relatives usually resident outside Australia.

“Near relative” usually includes

Officially, this concept covers: – parents – brothers or sisters – step-brothers or step-sisters – partner

It can also extend in certain cases to step-parents or others depending on family structure definitions under migration law and policy. Exact interpretation can be technical and fact-specific.

Warning: This is one of the most misunderstood parts of the visa. A single near relative usually resident outside Australia can make the applicant ineligible.

Sponsorship

The applicant must be sponsored by: – an eligible relative, or – the partner of that relative

The sponsor generally must be: – at least 18 years old, and – settled in Australia, and – an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

Exact sponsor eligibility and obligations should be checked on the official visa page and form instructions.

Nationality rules

There is no broad nationality restriction publicly stated for this visa category. However: – applicants of all nationalities must meet Australian migration law requirements – health, character, biometrics, police certificate, and country-specific document rules may vary by nationality and residence history

Passport validity

You need a valid passport or other acceptable travel/identity document. Australia links visas electronically to the passport details used in the application.

Age

There is no commonly stated general minimum or maximum age criterion specific to Subclass 115 itself, but: – sponsors generally must be adults – included dependent children must meet dependency rules – practical family-relationship evidence differs by age

Education, language, work experience, invitation, points, job offer

Not generally required for this visa: – education threshold: No – English test: No general threshold stated – work experience: No – invitation round: No – points test: No – job offer: No – admission letter: No – business or investment threshold: No

Financial support / Assurance of Support

For this visa category, an Assurance of Support (AoS) may be required before grant. This is a legal commitment by another person to repay certain social security payments if they become payable to the visa holder during the assurance period.

AoS arrangements are handled under Australian social security rules, often involving: – an assurer – income assessment – security bond in some cases

Because policy and administration can be technical, applicants should verify the current requirement and process on the official visa and Services Australia pages.

Health

Applicants must meet Australia’s health requirement. This may involve: – medical examination – chest x-ray – other tests depending on age, country history, intended stay implications, and personal circumstances

Character

Applicants usually need to provide police certificates and answer character questions. Serious criminal history or security concerns can cause refusal.

Insurance

Not generally a visa grant requirement in the same way as some temporary visas. However, because the visa is permanent, successful applicants may become eligible for Medicare under Australian rules after arrival. Before grant and travel, private cover may still be sensible depending on timing and circumstances.

Biometrics

Australia may require biometrics for applicants from certain countries or locations, or in certain cohorts. This varies.

Intent requirements

This is a permanent migration visa, so this is not a “genuine temporary entrant” visa. The issue is not return intent; the issue is whether the family relationship and all statutory criteria are genuinely met.

Quotas/caps/queue

Yes. This category is subject to: – annual planning levels – queueing – capping under migration program arrangements

This is why wait times are often extremely long.

6. Who is NOT eligible / common refusal triggers

Common ineligibility factors

You may be ineligible if: – you are in Australia when applying for Subclass 115 – you are in Australia when the visa is decided – you do not meet the remaining relative definition – you have a near relative usually resident outside Australia – you have no eligible sponsor – your sponsor is not eligible – you fail health or character checks – you owe money to the Australian Government and have not arranged repayment – a legal bar applies due to prior cancellation/refusal history

Common refusal triggers

Practical refusal reality

For this visa, refusal is often less about tourism-style “weak ties” and more about: – failing the strict family-definition test – sponsor defects – relationship evidence gaps – character/health/document issues

7. Benefits of this visa

Main benefits

Because this is a permanent visa, benefits can be substantial:

• Permanent residence in Australia
• Work rights
• Study rights
• Access to Medicare if eligible under Australian rules
• ability to sponsor some eligible family members later, if law permits and subject to future rules
• pathway toward Australian citizenship if residence and other requirements are later met
• 5-year travel facility from grant date

Family benefits

Eligible family members may be included in the application if they satisfy inclusion rules.

Long-term residence benefit

Unlike temporary visas, this visa does not expire as permission to remain in Australia. The key travel issue later is the travel facility, not the permanent resident status itself.

8. Limitations and restrictions

Major limitation: very long queue

The biggest restriction in real life is not post-grant rights but pre-grant waiting time.

Other restrictions

• You must be outside Australia at application and grant.
• The visa category is subject to caps and queueing.
• You must maintain accurate information during long processing periods.
• Included family members must continue to meet criteria at relevant stages.
• If your circumstances change materially, you must notify the Department.

Sponsor dependence

Your initial eligibility depends on sponsorship and family structure evidence. Changes can affect the application.

Public funds

An Assurance of Support may expose the assurer to liabilities if certain payments are claimed.

9. Duration, validity, entries, and stay rules

Permanent stay

Subclass 115 is a permanent visa. Once granted, it allows indefinite stay in Australia.

Travel facility

Like most Australian permanent visas, it generally includes a 5-year travel facility from date of grant. During that period, the holder can depart and re-enter Australia as a permanent resident. After that, if outside Australia and wanting to return as a permanent resident, a Resident Return Visa (RRV) may be needed.

When the clock starts

• Permanent residence status starts on visa grant
• Travel facility typically runs from visa grant date

Grace periods / overstays

Not applicable in the same way as temporary visas after grant because it is a permanent visa. However: – before grant, the applicant must hold lawful status wherever they are – if entering Australia later, border laws still apply

Bridging status

For Subclass 115, which is offshore, Australian bridging visas are generally not the core feature in the same way as onshore applications. If someone wants an onshore remaining relative route, they would look at Subclass 835, not 115.

10. Complete document checklist

Document requirements can vary by personal facts and nationality. Always use the current Department checklist and account prompts.

A. Core documents

B. Identity/travel documents

• Current passport biodata page
• National identity card if available
• Birth certificate
• Change-of-name evidence if applicable
• Previous passports if relevant to identity/travel history

Why needed: To prove identity and match civil status across documents.

Common mistakes: – passport expiring soon – name mismatch across birth/marriage/passport records – missing old passports where travel or identity history matters

C. Financial documents

For this visa, there is no standard published “minimum bank balance” like many student/visitor visas. But financial documents may still be needed for: – Assurance of Support stage – sponsor/assurer capacity – practical settlement planning where requested

Possible documents: – bank statements – payslips – tax records – employment letters of sponsor/assurer – proof of assets if relevant

D. Employment/business documents

Usually not central to eligibility, but may be requested for: – identity/history – police clearance context – Assurance of Support capacity – changes in circumstances

Examples: – employment letters – tax assessments – business registration records

E. Education documents

Usually not central. Only provide if requested or relevant to identity/history.

F. Relationship/family documents

This is the most important category.

• birth certificates showing parents
• family books/household registers where applicable
• marriage certificate if applicable
• divorce papers/death certificates where family structure changed
• evidence of siblings and step-siblings
• documents proving where near relatives are usually resident
• documents proving relatives’ Australian status:
• Australian passport
• citizenship certificate
• permanent visa evidence
• eligible New Zealand citizen evidence where relevant

Why needed: To prove you are a “remaining relative.”

Common mistakes: – not documenting all near relatives – omitting deceased or estranged relatives without explanation – failing to prove usual residence of relatives – assuming a family tree alone is enough

G. Accommodation/travel documents

Usually not a core grant criterion for this permanent visa, but may be useful after grant or in some practical contexts: – intended Australian address – sponsor’s accommodation statement – evidence of where applicant currently lives

H. Sponsor/invitation documents

• sponsor identity document
• proof of Australian citizenship/PR/eligible NZ status
• proof sponsor is settled in Australia
• relationship proof linking sponsor to applicant
• signed sponsorship forms
• address and contact details

I. Health/insurance documents

• health examinations as directed by the Department
• eMedical/HAP ID records if issued
• no standard private insurance document is typically the core visa criterion, but carry health cover planning evidence if useful

J. Country-specific extras

Depending on nationality or residence history: – military service records – household registration documents – national police certificates from multiple countries – exit-entry records – court records if applicable

K. Minor/dependent-specific documents

For dependent children included: – birth certificate – passport – parental consent if one parent is not migrating – custody orders if parents are separated/divorced – adoption papers if applicable – dependency evidence for older dependent children where required

L. Translation / apostille / notarization needs

• Documents not in English must generally be translated into English.
• If translated in Australia, the translator should be accredited where required.
• Outside Australia, translations should meet Department standards.
• Apostille/legalization is not always required by Australia for every document, but authenticity may be scrutinized; use official originals/certified copies as instructed.

Common Mistake: Uploading only the translation and not the original-language document.

M. Photo specifications

If a photo is required, follow current Australian identity/photo instructions in the application system. Specifications can change by digital upload format.

11. Financial requirements

Is there a minimum funds rule?

There is no standard publicly stated minimum personal funds threshold for Subclass 115 like there is for some temporary visas.

But financial aspects still matter

1. Assurance of Support

This is the main financial mechanism often relevant to this visa.

An Assurance of Support may require: – an approved assurer – income assessment – a bond/security in some cases – commitment to repay certain social security payments

The exact amount and process can change and should be checked on the current Services Australia page.

2. Settlement ability

Even where not a strict threshold, applicants should be prepared for: – travel costs – initial housing costs – health and relocation costs – document procurement expenses

Acceptable financial proof if requested

• bank statements
• tax returns/notices of assessment
• employment letters
• payslips
• pension records
• asset statements if relevant

Hidden costs

• police certificates from multiple countries
• medical exams
• translations
• courier/scanning costs
• travel to biometrics/medical sites
• later relocation costs to Australia
• Assurance of Support bond if applicable

12. Fees and total cost

Official visa application charge

The visa application charge changes periodically. Use the Department’s official visa page and fee estimator/current fee page.

Warning: Family migration fees can be high and may increase over time. Check the latest official fee page before applying.

Typical cost components

Refunds

If refused, visa charges are often not fully refundable. Check the official rules for your situation.

13. Step-by-step application process

1. Confirm the correct visa

Make sure: – you are outside Australia – you meet the remaining relative definition – you are not better suited to Subclass 835 or another family visa

2. Gather family-relationship evidence

This is the most important evidence set: – family tree – birth/marriage/death/custody records – proof of where each near relative usually lives – proof of Australian status of relatives in Australia

3. Prepare sponsor documents

Your sponsor should gather: – proof of identity – proof of status – proof of residence/settlement in Australia – signed sponsorship forms

4. Create an ImmiAccount / complete application

Most Australian visa applications are managed online through ImmiAccount unless a paper route is specifically required or allowed.

5. Pay fees

Lodge with the correct fee.

6. Submit application

For Subclass 115, valid lodgement matters because queue date can be important in capped categories.

7. Upload supporting documents

Upload clear scans with logical naming.

8. Complete biometrics if requested

This depends on location/nationality/application instructions.

9. Complete health examinations if instructed

Follow Department instructions; do not do them blindly too early unless specifically appropriate.

10. Provide police certificates

From each relevant country as requested.

11. Wait in queue / respond to requests

This stage can be very long. Update the Department if: – family composition changes – passport changes – address changes – sponsor changes – marital status changes

12. Decision

If granted: – you must be outside Australia at grant – visa grant notice will contain grant date and travel details

13. Travel to Australia

Enter using the passport linked to the visa grant.

14. Post-arrival setup

• Medicare enrollment if eligible
• TFN if working
• bank account, housing, SIM, school/work arrangements

14. Processing time

Official reality

Processing times for Remaining Relative visas are extremely long because of annual caps and queueing. The Department publicly indicates queueing and very long wait periods for this category.

The exact estimated wait can change significantly with: – annual migration program settings – queue size – visa places available – completeness – health/character timing – changes in law or policy

Warning: This is not a fast family visa. Many applicants wait for years, often very many years.

What affects timing?

• annual planning places
• date of valid application
• completeness of evidence
• whether sponsor details are clear
• whether family composition is contested
• police/medical delays
• requests for further information
• nationality-specific security screening

Priority options

There is no general premium processing publicly offered for this visa.

Practical expectation

Applicants should think in terms of long-term queue management, not short-term travel planning.

15. Biometrics, interview, medical, and police checks

Biometrics

• May be required depending on nationality/location
• Usually collected through an Australian biometrics collection service in the applicant’s region
• Follow the Department’s specific instructions

Interview

An interview is not always required. If one is requested, it may focus on: – family structure – where relatives live – sponsor relationship – identity inconsistencies – prior immigration history

Typical interview topics

• Who are your parents and siblings?
• Where do they live now?
• Do you have a spouse/partner?
• Do you have any dependent children?
• Why do you qualify as a remaining relative?
• Who is sponsoring you?

Medicals

Done through authorized panel physicians when instructed. Tests vary by: – age – country history – health circumstances

Police checks

Usually required from: – countries where you have lived for the relevant period under Department rules – possibly multiple countries

Exemptions

Some applicants may not need biometrics; some children may have modified requirements. Follow individual instructions.

16. Approval rates / refusal patterns / practical reality

Official approval-rate percentages for this exact visa are not always published in an easily usable public form. If no current official percentage is publicly stated, applicants should not rely on unofficial figures.

Practical refusal patterns

Most common refusal patterns are: – applicant is not truly a remaining relative under the legal definition – incomplete proof of all near relatives – sponsor not eligible or inadequately documented – health/character failure – failure to respond to requests – incorrect inclusion of dependents

Because the visa is highly specific, document logic matters more than volume.

17. How to strengthen the application legally

Official-rule-aligned practical advice

Build a complete family map

Provide: – parents – all siblings/step-siblings – partner history – children, if any – whether any are deceased, estranged, or missing – where each person is usually resident

Prove “usual residence,” not just nationality

Use evidence like: – utility bills – government IDs – residence records – visa/status records – tax or employment records where relevant

Explain family anomalies

If a sibling is estranged, adopted out, deceased, institutionalized, or location-unknown, explain that clearly and provide evidence.

Keep dates consistent

Birth dates, marriage dates, separation dates, residence dates, and passport dates should all line up.

Use a document index

Case officers should be able to understand the file quickly.

Disclose old refusals honestly

If asked about past visa refusals or immigration issues, answer truthfully.

Respond quickly to Department requests

Long-queued applications can still fail if requests are missed.

18. Insider tips, practical hacks, and smart applicant strategies

Legal Tips and Common Applicant Strategies

Pro Tip: Treat this like a legal family-structure case, not a normal visa application.

Smart strategies applicants commonly use legally

• Create a one-page family tree with all near relatives and cross-reference each person to evidence.
• Add a residence table showing where each near relative usually lives, with proof attached.
• Front-load explanations for complex issues such as half-siblings, step-siblings, divorce, death, estrangement, or adoption.
• Use one consistent spelling of names and explain variants with affidavit/civil records where necessary.
• Name files clearly: 01_Passport_Applicant.pdf, 12_BirthCertificate_Mother.pdf, 20_Sponsor_AustralianPassport.pdf.
• Track passport expiry during the queue and update the Department when the passport changes.
• Keep sponsor contact details current for years, not months.
• Retain copies of everything submitted because this visa can remain pending for a long time.
• Prepare police certificates only when requested or when strategically timely, since many certificates expire for practical purposes.
• Explain large family changes promptly—marriage, death, childbirth, sponsor relocation, or separation may matter.

When to contact the Department

Contact the Department when: – there is a major change in circumstances – you receive a request you do not understand – passport details change – sponsor details change

Do not send repeated status chasers unless there is a real update or the Department requests contact.

19. Cover letter / statement of purpose guidance

Is a cover letter required?

Not always formally required, but for this visa it is often very useful.

What the cover letter should do

• summarize that you meet Subclass 115 criteria
• identify the sponsor
• explain your family structure
• explain why you are a remaining relative
• list key evidence by attachment number
• explain any complexity or inconsistency

Suggested structure

1. Applicant details
2. Visa sought: Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)
3. Sponsor details
4. Short statement of eligibility
5. Family composition summary
6. Near relatives and where they usually reside
7. Evidence list
8. Any special issues explained
9. Confirmation that information is true and complete

What not to say

• Do not exaggerate hardship beyond what you can prove.
• Do not hide relatives who live outside Australia.
• Do not submit emotional claims as a substitute for legal criteria.

20. Sponsor / inviter guidance

Who can sponsor?

Generally: – an eligible relative, or – that relative’s partner

The sponsor must usually be: – 18 or older – settled in Australia – an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen

Sponsor documents

• passport or identity evidence
• Australian citizenship certificate or PR evidence
• proof of address in Australia
• proof of relationship to applicant
• signed sponsorship forms
• evidence of being settled in Australia

Sponsor mistakes

• assuming citizenship alone is enough without settlement proof
• not proving the exact family link
• inconsistent address history
• missing signatures
• not updating the Department after moving

Host accommodation proof

Not always decisive for this visa, but a sponsor letter about intended support and accommodation can still help explain settlement plans.

21. Dependents, spouse, partner, and children

Can dependents be included?

Yes, certain family members may be included if they meet the definition of a member of the family unit at the relevant time.

This can include: – partner/spouse in some cases – dependent children in some cases

Exact inclusion rules depend on the law in force and the timing of application/decision.

Important caution

A spouse/partner living outside Australia may also affect whether the principal applicant meets the remaining relative definition, because a partner is a near relative.

That means family composition must be analyzed carefully.

Children

Dependent children may need: – birth certificates – passports – dependency proof – consent/custody documents if one parent is not included

Same-sex partners

Australia recognizes same-sex spouses and de facto partners under migration law, subject to proof requirements.

Age-out issues

Dependent child rules can be sensitive to age and dependency status at relevant dates. Check current law carefully.

22. Work rights, study rights, and business activity rules

Because Subclass 115 is a permanent visa, the holder generally has broad rights after grant.

Work rights

• Work in Australia: Yes
• Employer restriction: No general visa-based lock-in
• Self-employment: Generally yes, subject to ordinary Australian law
• Remote work: Yes, as part of lawful residence/work
• Side income: Generally yes
• Passive income: Generally yes

Study rights

• Study in Australia: Yes
• Short courses and full study: Generally yes
• Domestic/international fee status is a separate issue and not guaranteed by the visa alone

Business activity

• Running a business: generally possible, subject to licensing, tax, and corporate law
• Paid meetings or business activities: generally permitted as a permanent resident
• Taxable activity: yes, subject to Australian tax law

Volunteering and internships

Generally possible if lawful and compliant with labor rules.

23. Travel rules and border entry issues

Visa grant vs border entry

A visa grant does not remove border control discretion. At arrival, officers may still verify identity and admissibility.

Documents to carry

Carry: – passport linked to visa – visa grant notice – sponsor contact details – copies of key identity/family records if your case is complex – evidence of Australian arrival address

New passport after grant

If you get a new passport after visa grant, update your passport details with the Department so your visa record remains correctly linked.

Dual nationals

Travel using the passport linked to the Australian visa record, or update records before travel.

Re-entry later

Travel is generally allowed during the 5-year travel facility. After that, re-entry from overseas may require a Resident Return Visa.

24. Extension, renewal, switching, and conversion

Extension

Not applicable in the normal temporary-visa sense because this is a permanent visa.

Renewal

The permanent visa itself is not “renewed,” but the travel facility may expire after 5 years. If you travel after that, you may need: – a Resident Return Visa (RRV)

Switching

Before grant, if you realize you should have applied for: – Subclass 835 instead of 115 – partner visa – parent visa – child visa

you may need to lodge the correct visa rather than “switch” informally. Rules and fee consequences vary.

Inside-country conversion

Subclass 115 is offshore. If you are in Australia and eligible, the relevant remaining relative route is generally Subclass 835, not 115.

25. Permanent residency and citizenship pathway

PR path

This visa is permanent residence.

Citizenship path

It can lead to Australian citizenship if the holder later meets citizenship requirements, which generally involve: – lawful residence periods – permanent residence period – physical presence rules – good character – citizenship application requirements

Citizenship rules can change, so verify the current Home Affairs citizenship page when eligible.

When it does not help PR

Not applicable; it already grants PR.

26. Taxes, compliance, and legal obligations

Tax

Once living in Australia, you may become an Australian tax resident depending on your circumstances. This affects: – worldwide income reporting – tax file number use – employment withholding

Compliance obligations

• obey visa grant conditions if any specific ones apply
• obey Australian laws
• update key Department records where required
• maintain accurate identity/passport information

Social security

Even as a permanent resident, access to some social security payments can be limited or subject to waiting periods and Assurance of Support implications.

Overstay/status violations

Not applicable in the same sense after grant because it is permanent residence, but breaches of law can still affect future citizenship or status.

27. Country-specific or nationality-specific exceptions

There is no general publicly stated nationality-based special access route for Subclass 115.

However, these matters can vary by nationality or residence history: – biometrics requirement – police certificate format – civil document standards – translation rules – panel physician access – security screening length

Eligible New Zealand citizen rules may matter for sponsors.

28. Special cases and edge cases

Minors

Possible but fact-specific. Sponsorship, custody, and dependency evidence become critical.

Divorced/separated parents

Need: – custody orders – consent documents – explanation of who has legal authority

Adopted children

Need formal adoption evidence and relationship mapping.

Same-sex spouses/partners

Recognized under Australian migration law if relationship evidence is sufficient.

Stateless persons / refugees

May face extra identity-document issues. If standard civil documents are unavailable, provide official explanations and alternative evidence where accepted.

Prior refusals

Must be disclosed where asked. A prior refusal does not automatically bar grant, but nondisclosure can be serious.

Criminal records

Can trigger character refusal depending on seriousness and legal thresholds.

Applying from a third country

Usually possible if you are outside Australia, but document access and biometrics logistics may vary.

Change of name

Provide official change-of-name, marriage, divorce, or deed evidence.

Gender marker mismatch

If documents differ, explain clearly and provide legal/medical/civil documentation available in your jurisdiction.

Previous deportation/removal

Can have serious consequences. Specialist legal advice may be wise.

29. Common myths and mistakes

Myth vs Fact

30. Refusal, appeal, administrative review, and reapplication

After refusal

You will receive a written refusal notice explaining: – the legal basis – facts relied upon – whether review rights exist – any relevant deadlines

Administrative review

In some cases, merits review may be available through the Administrative Review Tribunal framework that applies at the time of decision. Review rights depend on: – who applied – where the applicant was – who the sponsor is – legislative provisions in force at the time

Check the refusal notice carefully.

Deadlines

Strict deadlines usually apply for review. Do not assume you can wait.

Refunds

Application charges are generally not refunded simply because a visa is refused.

Reapplication

Possible in many cases, but only after fixing the actual refusal ground. Reapplying with the same weak file usually wastes time and money.

When legal help is sensible

• disputed family composition
• unclear “near relative” status
• character issues
• health issues
• previous cancellation/deportation
• review/appeal deadlines

31. Arrival in Australia: what happens next?

At immigration clearance

You may be asked to show: – passport – visa grant details – Australian contact address – sponsor contact details

First steps after arrival

First 7 days

• settle into accommodation
• get an Australian SIM
• apply for Medicare if eligible
• open bank account if needed

First 14 days

• apply for a Tax File Number if you will work
• organize school enrollment if children are arriving
• arrange transport and local services

First 30 days

• update employers, banks, and agencies with your details
• review tax residency situation
• start job search or work if applicable

First 90 days

• continue settlement tasks
• keep copies of visa grant and ID records
• monitor travel facility dates for future planning

32. Real-world timeline examples

Scenario 1: Solo applicant with all siblings in Australia

• Month 1–3: collect civil documents, sponsor documents, family tree
• Month 4: lodge application offshore
• Month 4 onward: application enters queue
• Years later: health, police, final checks requested closer to decision
• Grant: applicant outside Australia
• Travel: after grant

Scenario 2: Applicant with dependent child

• Month 1–4: collect applicant and child documents, custody/consent evidence
• Month 5: lodge with child included if eligible
• Long queue period: keep child dependency evidence current
• Final stage: updated documents may be needed before decision

Scenario 3: Applicant discovers onshore/offshore issue

• While in Australia: realizes Subclass 115 is wrong route
• Reviews Subclass 835 or another visa
• Avoids lodging wrong subclass that would fail basic location criterion

Scenario 4: Complex family history

• Month 1–6: gather death certificates, divorce decrees, step-sibling proof, residence evidence
• Lodge only after the family structure is fully documented
• Strong explanation letter reduces later confusion

Scenario 5: Entrepreneur/investor who also qualifies as remaining relative

• Chooses between a business pathway and family pathway
• Uses Subclass 115 only if family reunion is the real legal basis
• Understands business profile does not speed up family queue

33. Ideal document pack structure

Recommended file order

1. Cover letter
2. Document index
3. Passport and identity documents
4. Birth certificate
5. Name-change/marriage/divorce/death records
6. Family tree chart
7. Evidence for each near relative
8. Sponsor identity and status documents
9. Sponsor settlement evidence
10. Police/health documents
11. Any additional explanatory statements

Naming convention

• 01_CoverLetter.pdf
• 02_DocumentIndex.pdf
• 03_Applicant_Passport.pdf
• 04_Applicant_BirthCertificate.pdf
• 10_FamilyTree.pdf
• 11_Mother_BirthDeathRecords.pdf
• 12_Brother_AustralianPassport_ResidenceProof.pdf

Scan quality tips

• color scans if possible
• full page visible
• no cut-off corners
• readable seals/stamps
• combine related records into one logical PDF

34. Exact checklists

Pre-application checklist

• [ ] I am outside Australia
• [ ] I understand Subclass 115 is a permanent but heavily queued visa
• [ ] I meet the remaining relative definition
• [ ] I identified all near relatives
• [ ] I have an eligible sponsor
• [ ] I can prove sponsor status and settlement
• [ ] I have birth/marriage/death/divorce records as needed
• [ ] I have a family tree and residence evidence
• [ ] I checked current official fees
• [ ] I checked whether biometrics may apply

Submission-day checklist

• [ ] Correct subclass selected
• [ ] All names and dates consistent
• [ ] Sponsor documents attached
• [ ] Family relationship evidence attached
• [ ] Passport copy uploaded
• [ ] Fee paid successfully
• [ ] Copies saved offline

Biometrics/interview-day checklist

• [ ] Appointment confirmation
• [ ] Passport
• [ ] Request letter
• [ ] Supporting IDs
• [ ] Clear understanding of family composition
• [ ] Honest explanation for any anomalies

Arrival checklist

• [ ] Passport and visa grant notice carried
• [ ] Australian address available
• [ ] Sponsor contact details ready
• [ ] Medicare check planned
• [ ] TFN application planned if working

Extension/renewal checklist

Not applicable in the normal sense for this permanent visa, except: – [ ] Track 5-year travel facility expiry – [ ] Assess need for Resident Return Visa before future travel

Refusal recovery checklist

• [ ] Read refusal reasons carefully
• [ ] Check review rights and deadline
• [ ] Preserve all submitted documents
• [ ] Identify exact evidence gap
• [ ] Seek legal advice if review period is short
• [ ] Reapply only after fixing the real issue

35. FAQs

1. Is Subclass 115 a permanent visa?

Yes.

2. Do I need to be outside Australia to apply?

Yes, for Subclass 115.

3. Do I need to be outside Australia when it is granted?

Yes.

4. What does “remaining relative” mean?

It generally means your only near relatives usually live in Australia and you have no near relatives usually resident outside Australia.

5. Who counts as a near relative?

Usually parents, siblings, step-siblings, and partner. Exact interpretation can be technical.

6. If I have one sibling in my home country, can I still qualify?

Usually no, if that sibling is a near relative usually resident outside Australia.

7. Does an estranged sibling abroad still count?

Possibly yes. Estrangement does not automatically remove someone from being a near relative.

8. Can my spouse be included?

Possibly, if eligible as a family unit member, but a spouse/partner also affects the remaining relative analysis.

9. Can dependent children be included?

Yes, if they meet the applicable family unit/dependency rules.

10. Can I work after grant?

Yes.

11. Can I study after grant?

Yes.

12. Is English required?

No general English threshold is usually stated for this visa.

13. Is there a points test?

No.

14. Is there an age limit?

No general age cap is usually stated for the principal applicant.

15. How long does it take?

Usually a very long time due to queueing and annual caps.

16. Is there priority processing?

No general premium or priority route is publicly offered for this visa.

17. Can I use this visa to move quickly because my relatives are in Australia?

Usually no. This is generally not a fast route.

18. Do I need an Assurance of Support?

Often yes for this category; verify current requirements.

19. Is there a minimum bank balance?

No standard published personal-funds threshold like temporary visas, but financial capacity may still matter for AoS and settlement.

20. What if my passport expires while I am waiting?

Renew it and update the Department.

21. Can I apply from a country where I am not a citizen?

Usually yes if you are outside Australia, but local document and biometrics logistics may vary.

22. What is the difference between Subclass 115 and 835?

115 is offshore; 835 is onshore.

23. Can I travel freely forever after grant?

You can stay permanently, but international re-entry after the travel facility expires may require an RRV.

24. What if I was previously refused another Australian visa?

Disclose it honestly. It does not automatically bar this visa, but the details matter.

25. Can same-sex partners be recognized?

Yes, under Australian migration law if evidence is sufficient.

26. Do I need police certificates from every country I lived in?

From relevant countries as directed under the character requirement.

27. Will the Department ask for updated documents years later?

Very possibly, especially given long queue periods.

28. Can my sponsor be my sibling’s spouse?

In some cases, the partner of an eligible relative can sponsor. Check the exact sponsor rules.

29. If my family situation changes during processing, do I need to tell the Department?

Yes.

30. Can I switch from Subclass 115 to a work visa automatically?

No. Different visas require separate eligibility and application processes.

36. Official sources and verification

Below are official Australian Government sources relevant to this visa and related requirements.

• Department of Home Affairs — Remaining Relative visa (subclass 115):
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/remaining-relative-115

• Department of Home Affairs — Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835):
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/remaining-relative-835

• Department of Home Affairs — Family visas overview:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing#Family

• Department of Home Affairs — Visa processing times:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times

• Department of Home Affairs — Fees and charges / Visa pricing estimator entry point:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/visa-pricing-estimator

• Department of Home Affairs — ImmiAccount:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/applying-online-or-on-paper/online

• Department of Home Affairs — Family migration forms:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/form-listing/forms/47of.pdf

• Department of Home Affairs — Sponsorship for remaining relative and aged dependent relative forms area:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/form-listing/forms/40.pdf

• Department of Home Affairs — Character requirements / police certificates:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/character

• Department of Home Affairs — Health requirements:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/health

• Department of Home Affairs — Biometrics:
  https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/biometrics

• Services Australia — Assurance of Support:
  https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/assurance-support

• Federal Register of Legislation — Migration Regulations 1994:
  https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/F1996B03551

Note: Some forms and document instructions are updated periodically. Always use the current version linked from the Department’s forms pages or your ImmiAccount prompts.

37. Final verdict

The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) is best for a narrow group of people who truly have no near relatives outside Australia and whose close family is essentially all in Australia.

Biggest benefits

• permanent residence
• full work and study rights
• long-term family reunion
• pathway to citizenship later
• Medicare eligibility potential
• no points test or job offer requirement

Biggest risks

• very strict eligibility definition
• extremely long queue/processing reality
• family-structure evidence can be complex
• sponsor and AoS issues can derail the case
• one undisclosed or misunderstood near relative outside Australia can defeat eligibility

Top preparation advice

1. Confirm you actually meet the remaining relative definition.
2. Build a complete family map with proof for every near relative.
3. Use a clear cover letter and evidence index.
4. Keep expectations realistic about processing time.
5. Update the Department whenever there is a major change.

When to consider another visa

Choose another route if: – you are a spouse/partner of an Australian – you want to study or work soon – you are a parent or child under a different family category – you are in Australia and may instead need Subclass 835 – you do not fully meet the strict “remaining relative” test

Information gaps or items to verify before applying

• Current visa application charge and any additional applicant charges
• Current expected queue/processing time for Subclass 115
• Whether an Assurance of Support is currently required in your case and the current bond/income thresholds
• Whether biometrics are required for your nationality or country of application
• Exact police certificate requirements for each country you lived in
• Country-specific rules for translations, certified copies, and civil records
• Whether any recent changes affect review rights after refusal
• Whether your family composition creates a technical issue under the definition of near relative
• Whether any included dependent child still meets the dependency test by the relevant decision date
• Any recent changes to travel facility and Resident Return Visa rules after grant