Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)
The only way to join your only family.
The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) is designed for individuals who are the only remaining family members in their home country after all close relatives have moved to Australia. Applicants must remain outside Australia throughout the application and approval process.
The Subclass 115 Remaining Relative Visa is a permanent-residency visa for people who are living overseas but whose only close family — their “remaining relatives” — live in Australia. Under this visa, you may move to Australia to join your sponsor and live permanently, provided all eligibility criteria are met.
Sponsor Requirements & What Sponsor Must Do
Your sponsor must:
- Be an eligible citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, 18 years or older.
- Provide financial support, accommodation and ensure your settlement in Australia for an initial period (as required).
- Provide an Assurance of Support, to show you and any accompanying family will not rely on government welfare upon arrival.
What Subclass 115 Grants Rights After Visa Grant
With the 115 visa granted, you and included family members get:
- Permanent residency — live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Access to public health care (Medicare), and other benefits available to permanent residents (subject to standard entitlements).
- Travel rights: you can enter and leave Australia freely; initial travel facility is typically valid for 5 years from grant.
- Opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship (when eligible), and — if eligible — sponsor certain relatives in future under appropriate visa categories.
Important Conditions & Limitations What You Should Know
- The visa must be applied for from overseas — you must remain outside Australia until your visa grant.
- The “remaining relative” requirement is strict — having close relatives outside Australia usually makes you ineligible.
- Processing times can be very long, due to limited places and high demand. This can mean many years of wait before grant.
- Sponsor obligations are significant — sponsor must commit to supporting you upon arrival. If sponsor fails obligations, visa may be subject to cancellation.
- The visa does not guarantee quick arrival or immediate settlement — applicants need patience and compliance with all legal and administrative requirements.
FAQs About Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)
What is the Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)?
The Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) is a permanent visa that allows individuals to move to Australia to join their Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen relatives.
Who is eligible for the Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)?
Applicants must be the only close remaining family members living outside Australia and have sponsorship from an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen relative.
How much does the Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) cost?
The cost of the Subclass 115 visa may vary and can include additional fees for dependent family members. It is recommended to check the latest fees on the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
How long does it take to process the Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115)?
Processing times vary depending on application completeness and complexity. Applicants should refer to the official Australian Department of Home Affairs for the most current processing information.
