{"id":149,"date":"2026-03-16T07:13:24","date_gmt":"2026-03-16T07:13:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/desinri.com\/visa\/australia-remaining-relative-visa-subclass-115-115-requirements-fees-processing-time-how-to-apply\/"},"modified":"2026-03-16T07:13:24","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T07:13:24","slug":"australia-remaining-relative-visa-subclass-115-115-requirements-fees-processing-time-how-to-apply","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/desinri.com\/visa\/australia-remaining-relative-visa-subclass-115-115-requirements-fees-processing-time-how-to-apply\/","title":{"rendered":"Australia Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) (115): Requirements, Fees, Processing Time & How to Apply"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
We work hard to keep this guide accurate. If you spot outdated info, email updates to contact@desinri.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Short Description:<\/strong> Complete guide to Australia\u2019s Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115): eligibility, queue realities, costs, documents, process, rights, risks, and official sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Last Verified On:<\/strong> 2026-03-16<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visa Snapshot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n
Item<\/th>\n
Details<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\n
\n
Country<\/td>\n
Australia<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Visa name<\/td>\n
Remaining Relative Visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Visa short name<\/td>\n
115<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Category<\/td>\n
Family migration visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Main purpose<\/td>\n
Permanent migration for a person whose only near relatives usually live in Australia<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Typical applicant<\/td>\n
A person outside Australia with an eligible Australian sponsor and no near relatives living outside Australia<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Validity<\/td>\n
Permanent visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Stay duration<\/td>\n
Indefinite from grant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Entries allowed<\/td>\n
Multiple travel facility for 5 years from grant, then Resident Return Visa may be needed for re-entry<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Extension possible?<\/td>\n
Not applicable in the normal sense; it is a permanent visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Work allowed?<\/td>\n
Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Study allowed?<\/td>\n
Yes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Family allowed?<\/td>\n
Yes, certain family members can be included if eligible at time of application\/decision<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
PR path?<\/td>\n
Yes; this is a permanent resident visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Citizenship path?<\/td>\n
Indirect; may lead to Australian citizenship if later citizenship requirements are met<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)<\/strong> is an Australian permanent family visa<\/strong> for a person who is outside Australia<\/strong> and whose only near relatives<\/strong> usually live in Australia as Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It exists to support family reunion in very limited circumstances<\/strong> where an applicant is effectively left without close family outside Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This visa is meant for people who:\n– are outside Australia when applying and when the visa is granted, and\n– have an eligible sponsor in Australia, and\n– meet the strict \u201cremaining relative\u201d test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Australia\u2019s immigration system, this is a permanent migration visa<\/strong> in the Family stream<\/strong>. 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<\/strong> linked to the passport rather than a physical visa label.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Official naming<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Long name:<\/strong> Remaining Relative Visa<\/li>\n
Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 835)<\/strong> \u2014 onshore version<\/li>\n
Aged Parent Visa<\/strong><\/li>\n
Carer Visa<\/strong><\/li>\n
Other Family visas<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Core reality<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This visa is legally available, but it is part of the capped and queued family visa categories<\/strong>. In practice, this means very long processing times<\/strong>, often measured in many years, because places are limited annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Warning:<\/strong> Many people qualify in principle but are surprised by the queue. This is one of the most important practical realities of Subclass 115.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
2. Who should apply for this visa?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Best fit applicants<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This visa is best for someone who:\n– is outside Australia<\/strong>\n– has no near relatives<\/strong> living outside Australia\n– has all or almost all close family in Australia\n– wants permanent migration<\/strong>\n– is prepared for a very long wait<\/strong>\n– has an eligible sponsor in Australia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Typical suitable applicant profile<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
An adult whose parents, siblings, or step-equivalent near relatives all usually live in Australia<\/li>\n
A person with no partner and no dependent child living outside Australia<\/li>\n
A person seeking permanent family reunion rather than short-term travel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Who should generally not use this visa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is not<\/strong> the right visa for most people researching Australia for travel, study, work, or business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Better alternatives by situation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n
Applicant type<\/th>\n
Usually better visa\/path<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\n
\n
Tourist<\/td>\n
Visitor visa \/ ETA \/ eVisitor if eligible<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Business visitor<\/td>\n
Visitor visa (business visitor activities)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Job seeker<\/td>\n
Skilled migration or employer-sponsored pathways, not Subclass 115<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Employee<\/td>\n
Temporary Skill Shortage or other work visa pathway if eligible<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Student<\/td>\n
Student visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Spouse\/partner of Australian citizen\/PR<\/td>\n
Partner visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Child of Australian citizen\/PR<\/td>\n
Child visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Parent of Australian citizen\/PR<\/td>\n
Parent visa categories<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Carer for Australian relative with medical needs<\/td>\n
Carer visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Investor\/founder<\/td>\n
Business or investor routes if available and suitable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Transit passenger<\/td>\n
Transit visa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Medical traveler<\/td>\n
Visitor visa for medical treatment-related purpose if applicable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Category-by-category suitability<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Tourists:<\/strong> Not suitable.<\/li>\n
Business visitors:<\/strong> Not suitable.<\/li>\n
Job seekers:<\/strong> Not suitable.<\/li>\n
Employees:<\/strong> Not suitable unless they independently qualify under the family test.<\/li>\n
Students:<\/strong> Not suitable for study as the main purpose.<\/li>\n
Spouses\/partners:<\/strong> Usually partner visa is more suitable.<\/li>\n
Children\/dependents:<\/strong> Only if eligible to be included; otherwise child-specific routes may exist.<\/li>\n
Researchers\/digital nomads\/founders\/investors\/artists\/athletes\/religious workers:<\/strong> Usually not suitable unless they independently meet the family criteria and want permanent migration.<\/li>\n
Transit passengers\/medical travelers\/diplomats:<\/strong> Not suitable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
3. What is this visa used for?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Permitted purpose<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The main permitted purpose is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Permanent family reunion<\/strong> in Australia for a person who qualifies as a remaining relative.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Because it is a permanent visa, once granted the holder can generally:\n– live in Australia permanently\n– work in Australia\n– study in Australia\n– enroll in Medicare if eligible under Australian rules\n– travel in and out of Australia during the travel facility period\n– later pursue citizenship if eligible<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not the intended use for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is not designed for:\n– short tourism\n– attending meetings only\n– temporary work\n– remote work as a visitor workaround\n– short-term internship\n– transit\n– temporary medical treatment travel\n– a quick route into Australia while later deciding what to do<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Grey areas and misunderstandings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can someone use this because they \u201chave relatives in Australia\u201d?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
No. The rule is much narrower. You must meet the remaining relative<\/strong> definition, not just have family in Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can it be used as a faster route than partner\/skilled\/student visas?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
No. In practice, it is often much slower<\/strong> due to queueing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Can it be used to enter Australia quickly and wait there?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
No. Subclass 115 is the offshore<\/strong> version. You must be outside Australia at application and grant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Official visa classification and naming<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Official program name<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Australian Government permanent Family visa<\/strong><\/li>\n
Visa subclass: 115<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Related visa in the same concept<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 835)<\/strong> \u2014 onshore equivalent for eligible applicants in Australia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Older\/current naming<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The visa remains publicly referred to as the Remaining Relative visa<\/strong>. The subclass number identifies the exact route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Onshore remaining relative visa; applicant in Australia<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Partner visa<\/td>\n
Based on spouse\/de facto relationship, not \u201cremaining relative\u201d test<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Parent visa<\/td>\n
For parents of settled Australian children, different criteria and queue structure<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Carer visa<\/td>\n
For caring needs of Australian relative, different evidence<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Other Family visas<\/td>\n
Different relationship categories and often different sponsor\/eligibility rules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
5. Eligibility criteria<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Core official eligibility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To be eligible for Subclass 115, the applicant generally must:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
be outside Australia<\/strong> when applying<\/li>\n
be outside Australia<\/strong> when the visa is granted<\/li>\n
have a sponsor<\/strong><\/li>\n
be a remaining relative<\/strong><\/li>\n
meet health<\/strong> requirements<\/li>\n
meet character<\/strong> requirements<\/li>\n
sign the Australian values statement<\/strong> if required<\/li>\n
have paid any outstanding debts to the Australian Government or arranged repayment<\/li>\n
not have had a visa cancelled or application refused in a way that bars grant, where relevant<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The \u201cremaining relative\u201d test<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is the heart of the visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The applicant must show that:\n– their near relatives<\/strong> are usually resident in Australia<\/strong>, and\n– those relatives are Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens, and\n– the applicant has no near relatives<\/strong> usually resident outside Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cNear relative\u201d usually includes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Officially, this concept covers:\n– parents\n– brothers or sisters\n– step-brothers or step-sisters\n– partner<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Warning:<\/strong> This is one of the most misunderstood parts of the visa. A single near relative usually resident outside Australia can make the applicant ineligible.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Sponsorship<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The applicant must be sponsored by:\n– an eligible relative, or\n– the partner of that relative<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sponsor generally must be:\n– at least 18 years old, and\n– settled in Australia, and\n– an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exact sponsor eligibility and obligations should be checked on the official visa page and form instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nationality rules<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
There is no broad nationality restriction<\/strong> publicly stated for this visa category. However:\n– applicants of all nationalities must meet Australian migration law requirements\n– health, character, biometrics, police certificate, and country-specific document rules may vary by nationality and residence history<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Passport validity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You need a valid passport or other acceptable travel\/identity document. Australia links visas electronically to the passport details used in the application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Age<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
There is no commonly stated general minimum or maximum age criterion specific to Subclass 115 itself, but:\n– sponsors generally must be adults\n– included dependent children must meet dependency rules\n– practical family-relationship evidence differs by age<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Education, language, work experience, invitation, points, job offer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Not generally required for this visa:\n– education threshold: No<\/strong>\n– English test: No general threshold stated<\/strong>\n– work experience: No<\/strong>\n– invitation round: No<\/strong>\n– points test: No<\/strong>\n– job offer: No<\/strong>\n– admission letter: No<\/strong>\n– business or investment threshold: No<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Financial support \/ Assurance of Support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For this visa category, an Assurance of Support (AoS)<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
AoS arrangements are handled under Australian social security rules, often involving:\n– an assurer\n– income assessment\n– security bond in some cases<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because policy and administration can be technical, applicants should verify the current requirement and process on the official visa and Services Australia pages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Applicants must meet Australia\u2019s health requirement. This may involve:\n– medical examination\n– chest x-ray\n– other tests depending on age, country history, intended stay implications, and personal circumstances<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Character<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Applicants usually need to provide police certificates and answer character questions. Serious criminal history or security concerns can cause refusal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Biometrics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Australia may require biometrics for applicants from certain countries or locations, or in certain cohorts. This varies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Intent requirements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is a permanent migration visa, so this is not<\/strong> a \u201cgenuine temporary entrant\u201d visa. The issue is not return intent; the issue is whether the family relationship and all statutory criteria are genuinely met.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quotas\/caps\/queue<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Yes. This category is subject to:\n– annual planning levels\n– queueing\n– capping under migration program arrangements<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is why wait times are often extremely long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Who is NOT eligible \/ common refusal triggers<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Common ineligibility factors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You may be ineligible if:\n– you are in Australia when applying for Subclass 115\n– you are in Australia when the visa is decided\n– you do not meet the remaining relative definition\n– you have a near relative usually resident outside Australia\n– you have no eligible sponsor\n– your sponsor is not eligible\n– you fail health or character checks\n– you owe money to the Australian Government and have not arranged repayment\n– a legal bar applies due to prior cancellation\/refusal history<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common refusal triggers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n
Refusal trigger<\/th>\n
Why it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\n
\n
Wrong visa class<\/td>\n
Offshore applicant uses onshore route or vice versa<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Weak proof of family composition<\/td>\n
Case officer cannot verify remaining relative status<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Sponsor eligibility not established<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Inconsistent addresses\/residence history<\/td>\n
Creates doubt about where relatives are \u201cusually resident\u201d<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Missing police certificates<\/td>\n
Character criterion not met<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Health issues without satisfying health requirement<\/td>\n
Mandatory criterion<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Untranslated civil documents<\/td>\n
Evidence cannot be assessed properly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Incorrect dependency claims<\/td>\n
Included family member may not qualify<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Non-response to departmental requests<\/td>\n
Application may be refused on available information<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Practical refusal reality<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
For this visa, refusal is often less about tourism-style \u201cweak ties\u201d and more about:\n– failing the strict family-definition test\n– sponsor defects\n– relationship evidence gaps\n– character\/health\/document issues<\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Benefits of this visa<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Main benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Because this is a permanent visa, benefits can be substantial:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Permanent residence in Australia<\/strong><\/li>\n
Work rights<\/strong><\/li>\n
Study rights<\/strong><\/li>\n
Access to Medicare<\/strong> if eligible under Australian rules<\/li>\n
ability to sponsor some eligible family members later, if law permits and subject to future rules<\/li>\n
pathway toward Australian citizenship<\/strong> if residence and other requirements are later met<\/li>\n
5-year travel facility<\/strong> from grant date<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Family benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Eligible family members may be included in the application if they satisfy inclusion rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Long-term residence benefit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
8. Limitations and restrictions<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Major limitation: very long queue<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The biggest restriction in real life is not post-grant rights but pre-grant waiting time<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other restrictions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
You must be outside Australia<\/strong> at application and grant.<\/li>\n
The visa category is subject to caps and queueing<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
You must maintain accurate information during long processing periods.<\/li>\n
Included family members must continue to meet criteria at relevant stages.<\/li>\n
If your circumstances change materially, you must notify the Department.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Sponsor dependence<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your initial eligibility depends on sponsorship and family structure evidence. Changes can affect the application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Public funds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
An Assurance of Support<\/strong> may expose the assurer to liabilities if certain payments are claimed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
9. Duration, validity, entries, and stay rules<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Permanent stay<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Subclass 115 is a permanent visa<\/strong>. Once granted, it allows indefinite stay in Australia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Travel facility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Like most Australian permanent visas, it generally includes a 5-year travel facility<\/strong> 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)<\/strong> may be needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When the clock starts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Permanent residence status starts on visa grant<\/strong><\/li>\n
Travel facility typically runs from visa grant date<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Grace periods \/ overstays<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Not applicable in the same way as temporary visas after grant because it is a permanent visa. However:\n– before grant, the applicant must hold lawful status wherever they are\n– if entering Australia later, border laws still apply<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bridging status<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For Subclass 115<\/strong>, which is offshore, Australian bridging visas are generally not the core feature<\/strong> in the same way as onshore applications. If someone wants an onshore remaining relative route, they would look at Subclass 835<\/strong>, not 115.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
10. Complete document checklist<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Document requirements can vary by personal facts and nationality. Always use the current Department checklist and account prompts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A. Core documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n
Document<\/th>\n
What it is<\/th>\n
Why needed<\/th>\n
Common mistakes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\n
\n
Visa application form \/ ImmiAccount submission<\/td>\n
Missing settlement proof or status proof<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Application fee payment<\/td>\n
Receipt\/payment record<\/td>\n
Valid lodgement<\/td>\n
Underpayment or failed payment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
B. Identity\/travel documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Current passport biodata page<\/li>\n
National identity card if available<\/li>\n
Birth certificate<\/li>\n
Change-of-name evidence if applicable<\/li>\n
Previous passports if relevant to identity\/travel history<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Why needed:<\/strong> To prove identity and match civil status across documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common mistakes:<\/strong>\n– passport expiring soon\n– name mismatch across birth\/marriage\/passport records\n– missing old passports where travel or identity history matters<\/p>\n\n\n\n
C. Financial documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For this visa, there is no standard published \u201cminimum bank balance\u201d like many student\/visitor visas. But financial documents may still be needed for:\n– Assurance of Support stage\n– sponsor\/assurer capacity\n– practical settlement planning where requested<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Possible documents:\n– bank statements\n– payslips\n– tax records\n– employment letters of sponsor\/assurer\n– proof of assets if relevant<\/p>\n\n\n\n
D. Employment\/business documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Usually not central to eligibility, but may be requested for:\n– identity\/history\n– police clearance context\n– Assurance of Support capacity\n– changes in circumstances<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Examples:\n– employment letters\n– tax assessments\n– business registration records<\/p>\n\n\n\n
E. Education documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Usually not central. Only provide if requested or relevant to identity\/history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
F. Relationship\/family documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is the most important category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
birth certificates showing parents<\/li>\n
family books\/household registers where applicable<\/li>\n
marriage certificate if applicable<\/li>\n
divorce papers\/death certificates where family structure changed<\/li>\n
evidence of siblings and step-siblings<\/li>\n
documents proving where near relatives are usually resident<\/li>\n
documents proving relatives\u2019 Australian status:<\/li>\n
Australian passport<\/li>\n
citizenship certificate<\/li>\n
permanent visa evidence<\/li>\n
eligible New Zealand citizen evidence where relevant<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Why needed:<\/strong> To prove you are a \u201cremaining relative.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common mistakes:<\/strong>\n– not documenting all near relatives\n– omitting deceased or estranged relatives without explanation\n– failing to prove usual residence of relatives\n– assuming a family tree alone is enough<\/p>\n\n\n\n
G. Accommodation\/travel documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Usually not a core grant criterion for this permanent visa, but may be useful after grant or in some practical contexts:\n– intended Australian address\n– sponsor\u2019s accommodation statement\n– evidence of where applicant currently lives<\/p>\n\n\n\n
H. Sponsor\/invitation documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
sponsor identity document<\/li>\n
proof of Australian citizenship\/PR\/eligible NZ status<\/li>\n
proof sponsor is settled in Australia<\/li>\n
relationship proof linking sponsor to applicant<\/li>\n
signed sponsorship forms<\/li>\n
address and contact details<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
I. Health\/insurance documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
health examinations as directed by the Department<\/li>\n
eMedical\/HAP ID records if issued<\/li>\n
no standard private insurance document is typically the core visa criterion, but carry health cover planning evidence if useful<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
J. Country-specific extras<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Depending on nationality or residence history:\n– military service records\n– household registration documents\n– national police certificates from multiple countries\n– exit-entry records\n– court records if applicable<\/p>\n\n\n\n
K. Minor\/dependent-specific documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For dependent children included:\n– birth certificate\n– passport\n– parental consent if one parent is not migrating\n– custody orders if parents are separated\/divorced\n– adoption papers if applicable\n– dependency evidence for older dependent children where required<\/p>\n\n\n\n
L. Translation \/ apostille \/ notarization needs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Documents not in English must generally be translated into English.<\/li>\n
If translated in Australia, the translator should be accredited where required.<\/li>\n
Outside Australia, translations should meet Department standards.<\/li>\n
Apostille\/legalization is not always required by Australia for every document, but authenticity may be scrutinized; use official originals\/certified copies as instructed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n
Common Mistake:<\/strong> Uploading only the translation and not the original-language document.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
M. Photo specifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If a photo is required, follow current Australian identity\/photo instructions in the application system. Specifications can change by digital upload format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
11. Financial requirements<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Is there a minimum funds rule?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
There is no standard publicly stated minimum personal funds threshold<\/strong> for Subclass 115 like there is for some temporary visas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But financial aspects still matter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Assurance of Support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
This is the main financial mechanism often relevant to this visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An Assurance of Support may require:\n– an approved assurer\n– income assessment\n– a bond\/security in some cases\n– commitment to repay certain social security payments<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The exact amount and process can change and should be checked on the current Services Australia page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Settlement ability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Even where not a strict threshold, applicants should be prepared for:\n– travel costs\n– initial housing costs\n– health and relocation costs\n– document procurement expenses<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Acceptable financial proof if requested<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
bank statements<\/li>\n
tax returns\/notices of assessment<\/li>\n
employment letters<\/li>\n
payslips<\/li>\n
pension records<\/li>\n
asset statements if relevant<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Hidden costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
police certificates from multiple countries<\/li>\n
medical exams<\/li>\n
translations<\/li>\n
courier\/scanning costs<\/li>\n
travel to biometrics\/medical sites<\/li>\n
later relocation costs to Australia<\/li>\n
Assurance of Support bond if applicable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
12. Fees and total cost<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Official visa application charge<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The visa application charge changes periodically. Use the Department\u2019s official visa page and fee estimator\/current fee page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Warning:<\/strong> Family migration fees can be high and may increase over time. Check the latest official fee page before applying.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Typical cost components<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n
\n
Cost item<\/th>\n
Notes<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\n
\n
Visa application charge<\/td>\n
Main government fee; check latest official amount<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Additional applicant charge<\/td>\n
May apply for included family members depending on age\/status<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Biometrics fee<\/td>\n
If biometrics are required in your location<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Health exam fee<\/td>\n
Paid to panel physicians, not usually included in visa charge<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Police certificate cost<\/td>\n
Varies by country<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Translation cost<\/td>\n
Varies widely<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Notarization\/certification cost<\/td>\n
Country-specific<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Courier\/scanning cost<\/td>\n
Practical admin cost<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Assurance of Support bond<\/td>\n
If required, this can be significant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n
Travel\/relocation cost<\/td>\n
Airfare and settlement expenses after grant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Refunds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If refused, visa charges are often not fully refundable<\/strong>. Check the official rules for your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Make sure:\n– you are outside Australia\n– you meet the remaining relative definition\n– you are not better suited to Subclass 835 or another family visa<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is the most important evidence set:\n– family tree\n– birth\/marriage\/death\/custody records\n– proof of where each near relative usually lives\n– proof of Australian status of relatives in Australia<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Prepare sponsor documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your sponsor should gather:\n– proof of identity\n– proof of status\n– proof of residence\/settlement in Australia\n– signed sponsorship forms<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Create an ImmiAccount \/ complete application<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Most Australian visa applications are managed online through ImmiAccount<\/strong> unless a paper route is specifically required or allowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Pay fees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Lodge with the correct fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
6. Submit application<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For Subclass 115, valid lodgement matters because queue date can be important in capped categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
7. Upload supporting documents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Upload clear scans with logical naming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
8. Complete biometrics if requested<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This depends on location\/nationality\/application instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
9. Complete health examinations if instructed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Follow Department instructions; do not do them blindly too early unless specifically appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
10. Provide police certificates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
From each relevant country as requested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
11. Wait in queue \/ respond to requests<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This stage can be very long. Update the Department if:\n– family composition changes\n– passport changes\n– address changes\n– sponsor changes\n– marital status changes<\/p>\n\n\n\n
12. Decision<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If granted:\n– you must be outside Australia at grant\n– visa grant notice will contain grant date and travel details<\/p>\n\n\n\n
13. Travel to Australia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Enter using the passport linked to the visa grant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
14. Post-arrival setup<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
Medicare enrollment if eligible<\/li>\n
TFN if working<\/li>\n
bank account, housing, SIM, school\/work arrangements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
14. Processing time<\/h1>\n\n\n\n
Official reality<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Processing times for Remaining Relative visas are extremely long<\/strong> because of annual caps and queueing. The Department publicly indicates queueing and very long wait periods for this category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The exact estimated wait can change significantly with:\n– annual migration program settings\n– queue size\n– visa places available\n– completeness\n– health\/character timing\n– changes in law or policy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Warning:<\/strong> This is not a fast family visa. Many applicants wait for years, often very many years.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n