Australia’s Remaining Relative Visa

Types of Remaining Relative Visa

The Remaining Relative Visa is divided into two subclasses:

1. Subclass 115: For applicants who are outside of Australia when applying.
2. Subclass 835: For applicants who are within Australia at the time of application.

Eligibility Criteria for the Remaining Relative Visa

To be eligible for the Remaining Relative Visa, the applicant must meet specific conditions:

1. Eligible Sponsor: The applicant must be sponsored by a close family member who is an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand citizen. This close family member could be a parent, step-parent, sibling, step-sibling, or the spouse of one of these individuals.
2. No Other Close Relatives Outside Australia: The applicant and their spouse must not have any other close family members outside of Australia.
3. Assurance of Support: The sponsor must commit to providing financial support if needed. This support helps ensure that the applicant does not rely on government welfare assistance.
4. Health and Character Requirements: The applicant must pass a medical examination and submit police certificates as proof of good character. These requirements ensure the applicant poses no risk to the Australian community.

Required Documents for the Remaining Relative Visa

The documents necessary for this visa include:

• Identity Documents: Valid passport, birth certificate, and any name change documents if applicable.
• Proof of Family Relationship: Birth certificates, marriage certificates, adoption papers, or other documents showing the family relationship with the sponsor.
• Sponsor Documents: Completed Form 40, proof of the sponsor’s Australian citizenship or permanent residency, and evidence of financial support commitment.
• Health and Character Certificates: Results from medical examinations and police certificates.

Visa Fees for the Remaining Relative Visa

The costs associated with the visa application are as follows:

Note: Fees may vary, so it is advisable to check with official sources before proceeding.

Processing Time for the Remaining Relative Visa

The processing time for this visa is extremely long and can take up to 50 years. This extended duration is due to high demand and a limited annual quota. Applicants should consider this aspect if they seek a faster migration pathway.

Benefits of the Remaining Relative Visa in Australia

• Permanent Residency: The opportunity to live, work, and study permanently in Australia.
• Access to Healthcare: Eligibility for Australia’s healthcare and medical services.
• Ability to Sponsor Other Family Members: Once granted, the visa holder may be eligible to sponsor other qualifying family members for migration to Australia.

Disadvantages of the Remaining Relative Visa

• Long Processing Times: Due to high demand, the visa can take decades to process.
• High Costs: The costs associated with the application and financial assurance requirements can be significant.

Application Steps for the Remaining Relative Visa

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all necessary requirements.
2. Gather Documents: Collect and translate all required documents as needed.
3. Complete Forms: Fill out Form 47 for the applicant and Form 40 for the sponsor.
4. Pay Fees: Submit the first installment of the visa fee.
5. Submit Application: Send your application and supporting documents to the relevant visa processing center in Australia.
6. Wait for Processing: Await the decision from the Department of Home Affairs.

Important Notes

• Assurance of Support: The sponsor must demonstrate a commitment to supporting the applicant financially if necessary.
• No Other Close Relatives Outside Australia: This visa is designed for individuals whose only close family members reside in Australia.
• Long Processing Time: Due to the extended processing period, this visa may not be suitable for individuals looking for a quick migration solution.