Apply for
Remaining Relative Visa – Subclass 115
Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 115) – reunite with your last remaining family member in Australia.
The Remaining Relative visa (Subclass 115) allows an individual to reunite with their last remaining close family member who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa is specifically for those who have no other near relatives living outside Australia and wish to bring their last remaining family member to live permanently in Australia.
Overview for Remaining Relative Visa – Subclass 115
- Permanent residency for your last remaining family member
The Remaining Relative visa (Subclass 115) is designed for individuals who wish to bring their last remaining close family member to Australia. To be eligible, the applicant must be the last remaining relative of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen. This visa allows your family member to live, work, and study permanently in Australia. - Reunite with your closest family
If your family member is the only relative left from your family who resides outside of Australia, this visa offers a unique opportunity for you both to live together in Australia. Once granted, this visa also gives the applicant access to Medicare, the Australian healthcare system, and the potential to apply for Australian citizenship when eligible. - A pathway to family reunification
The Subclass 115 visa is an excellent option for families seeking reunification, allowing one relatives to join you in Australia. At Knowbal Migration, we assist with the entire process, from gathering the necessary documents to advising on the most efficient strategies for a successful application.
Cost: AUD5,280.00 | for latest cost estimation check here
Eligibility for Remaining Relative Visa – Subclass 115
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | The sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia. They must also be at least 18 years of age and meet the Assurance of Support requirements if applicable. |
| Location at the Time of Application | The applicant must be outside Australia when lodging the application. The visa is designed for family members who are not yet in Australia. |
| Location at the Time of Grant | The applicant must still be outside Australia at the time the visa is granted. |
| Relationship to Sponsor |
For the Remaining Relative Visa, the applicant must be the sponsor’s last remaining close family member, meaning they must have no other close relatives (such as siblings, parents, or other near relatives) living outside Australia. A “near relative” (for this visa) includes:
|
| Balance of Family Test | The applicant must pass the Balance of Family Test, meaning they must have 50% or more of their children living in Australia or have more children in Australia than in any other country. |
| Health & Character Requirements | The applicant must meet Australia’s health and character requirements, including health examinations and police clearances if applicable. |
| Proof of Relationship | The applicant must provide evidence of their relationship to the sponsor, such as birth certificates, adoption documents, and proof of dependency if necessary. Additionally, you and your partner must never have held or sponsored someone else who was granted a:
|
The Knowbal Visa Application Process
Applying for the Relative visa can feel complicated, but Knowbal is here to support you at every stage. Here’s how we simplify the application process
Initial Consultation
We start by reviewing your study history, current visa status, and eligibility for the Temporary Graduate Visa. This personalised consultation helps us understand your situation and plan the best application approach for you.
Assigning an Expert Agent
Once we assess your case, you’ll be assigned a dedicated migration expert. This professional will be your main point of contact, guiding you through each step and answering your questions promptly.
Document Preparation
Gathering and organising your documents correctly is critical. Knowbal helps you prepare all necessary paperwork, including your Confirmation of Enrolment, academic transcripts, proof of completion, health insurance, and identity documents to avoid delays or errors.
Submitting the Application
We lodge your visa application on your behalf with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring everything complies with visa requirements and your information is accurately presented.
Ongoing Updates
Throughout the processing period, Knowbal monitors your application and keeps you informed. Should the Department request additional information, we will assist you promptly to ensure a smooth process.
FAQs
Yes, you can apply for the Remaining Relative visa (Subclass 115) while your sibling’s visa application is in progress. However, keep in mind that this visa depends on the Balance of Family Test (you must have more close family members in Australia than in any other country). It’s a good idea to time your application strategically, ensuring you meet all the requirements while your sibling’s PR application is processed.
You can sponsor your relative for the Remaining Relative visa (Subclass 115) while waiting for your PR, as long as you meet the criteria. However, timing is crucial. If you’re applying for PR yourself, we can plan the visa application so that the relative can come to Australia as soon as possible. We’ll guide you through both timelines and make sure the process is as seamless as possible.
If your sibling is not available to sign a consent letter, we may need to consider legal documentation that supports your claim. If you have court orders, proof of legal responsibility, or other evidence, we can explore alternative pathways. However, without proof of consent or parental responsibility, the process can be complicated. We’ll help assess your situation and provide legal avenues if necessary.
It’s quite common for there to be discrepancies in names, especially when there are family name changes. Before lodging the application, we can help you resolve these inconsistencies by:
- Providing a statutory declaration explaining the name difference,
- Submitting relevant identity documents (such as birth certificates or name change documentation).
This ensures that the name mismatch doesn’t delay your application.
To prevent delays, we recommend applying for the police clearance as soon as you plan to apply. You can apply for police clearances from relevant countries even before your application is lodged. In consultation, we’ll help you identify all the countries your relative may have lived in and assist in ensuring you gather all necessary documentation ahead of time. This will speed up processing
While a prior visa refusal doesn’t automatically disqualify your relative, it can complicate the application process. We’ll work with you to analyse the reasons for the refusal and determine the best way forward. In some cases, addressing the refusal with additional documentation or a stronger application can mitigate its impact. It’s important to prepare a robust case to avoid additional delays.
To meet the Assurance of Support (AoS) requirement, the sponsor must show they have the financial means to support the applicant. This involves:
- Providing proof of income (e.g., payslips, tax returns)
- Showing that you have enough funds to support your relative without needing government assistance.
If your financial situation is borderline, we can explore how to best demonstrate your ability to meet AoS and discuss whether a joint sponsor might help. Our team will ensure all documentation is in place to meet this crucial requirement.
Blogs
How to Claim 5 Extra Points for Regional Study: The Ultimate GSM Guide
Introduction If you are navigating the General Skilled Migration (GSM) system in Australia—chasing a Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa—you...
How Partner Points Work for Australian GSM Visas (189, 190, 491): A Simple Guide
Introduction When you are applying for a General Skilled Migration (GSM) visa—like the 189, 190, or 491—you know that every...
Form 888 vs Section 48 Statutory Declarations
Introduction Applying for an Australian Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) is already one of the most document-heavy, emotionally draining, and expensive...
