Australia’s immigration system recognises the value of strong family connections. For individuals who have no immediate family members living outside Australia, the Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) offers a unique opportunity to reunite with close family members who are Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens.
The Subclass 115 visa is designed for those whose only close relatives live in Australia. It enables them to migrate permanently and live with their family, but due to strict eligibility and long processing times, expert advice from a registered migration agent is highly recommended.
This blog explains the key details of the Remaining Relative Visa and why working with a migration agent can make all the difference in a successful application.
What Is the Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)?
The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) is a permanent family visa for people who are outside Australia and wish to join their close family members, provided they are the only close relatives left outside the country.
This visa allows eligible applicants to:
- Live permanently in Australia
- Work and study
- Access Medicare (Australia’s public healthcare system)
- Apply for citizenship once eligible
- Sponsor other eligible relatives to come to Australia
It falls under Australia’s Family Migration stream and requires sponsorship by an eligible relative who is settled in Australia.
Who Can Sponsor You?
Your sponsor must be:
- An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen
- Over 18 years of age
- Usually residing in Australia
- A parent, sibling, step-sibling, or step-parent
- Able to provide assurance of support, which is a legal commitment to financially assist you for a period after you arrive in Australia
Who Is Eligible for the Remaining Relative Visa?
To qualify for a Subclass 115 visa, you must:
- Be outside Australia when applying and when the visa is granted
- Have no near relatives (parents, siblings, children) living outside Australia
- Be sponsored by an eligible relative or their partner
- Meet the health and character requirements
- Provide evidence that all close family members (except the sponsor) are settled in Australia
- Have someone willing to act as an assurer of support
This visa is not for extended family such as cousins, nieces/nephews, or friends. It’s strictly for those whose immediate family ties are all in Australia.
Important Considerations
- Processing times are lengthy – often many years – due to high demand and capped quotas.
- There is no priority processing, meaning applications are assessed in the order received.
- You must remain outside Australia during processing and cannot be granted a bridging visa.
- You’ll be required to undergo health checks, provide police certificates, and submit extensive documentation.
Because of the long waiting period and strict criteria, using a migration agent ensures your application is complete and compliant with all Department of Home Affairs requirements.
What Is the Assurance of Support?
An Assurance of Support (AoS) is a financial commitment from your sponsor (or another person) that ensures you won’t rely on government welfare after your arrival.
Key details:
- It’s a legal agreement with Services Australia
- The assurer must demonstrate sufficient income and/or assets
- It usually lasts for two years from the date of your arrival
- A bond may be required (typically AUD $5,000–$10,000)
A migration agent can help assess whether your sponsor qualifies and guide you through the AoS process.
Benefits of the Subclass 115 Visa
Once granted, this permanent visa offers:
- Full work and study rights
- Access to Medicare
- A pathway to Australian citizenship
- The ability to sponsor eligible relatives
- Permanent residency status from the day of visa grant
Despite the long wait, it provides a stable and secure future in Australia with family.
Why Use a Migration Agent for the Remaining Relative Visa?
The Remaining Relative Visa is one of the most technical and time-consuming in the family stream. Using a registered migration agent is highly recommended due to:
- Strict eligibility rules
- Complex documentation requirements
- Long wait times that require careful planning
- Risk of application refusal if conditions are not met
A migration agent in Australia can ensure:
- You submit the correct evidence
- The sponsor and assurer meet legal requirements
- Your application is complete and decision-ready
- You are informed of any policy changes or updates during the long wait
Common FAQs
Can I apply for this visa while in Australia?
No. Subclass 115 must be applied for and granted while you are outside Australia.
- How long does it take to process?
This visa is subject to long processing times, often 10+ years due to low annual quotas.
- Can I visit Australia while waiting?
Yes, you can apply for a visitor visa, but you must leave before your Subclass 115 can be granted.
- What happens if my sponsor dies or moves away?
You must notify the Department of Home Affairs immediately. Your migration agent can explore options to replace the sponsor or withdraw the application if needed.
- Is there an age limit for applicants?
There is no age limit, but all applicants must meet health and character requirements.
Final Thoughts
The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) is a vital option for those with no close family members outside Australia, providing a legal path to reunite with loved ones and build a life together permanently. However, the strict requirements and long waiting periods make professional guidance essential.
By working with a registered migration agent, you can ensure that your application is well-prepared, your sponsor meets the criteria, and you stay informed throughout the waiting period.
Need expert help with your Remaining Relative Visa application?
📍 Connect with a trusted migration agent Brisbane today and take the right steps toward reuniting with your family in Australia.
