For many people, migrating to Australia means more than just a career move its about building a future with loved ones. If you’re the last remaining close family member living outside Australia and all your immediate relatives are permanent resident or citizens there, the Remaining Relative Visa 115 may be your gateway to reunification. This visa subclass is specifically designed to bring families back together, especially when you’re the only one left abroad.
In this article, we’ll break down what the Remaining Relative Visa 115 is, who it’s for, how to apply, and what to expect during the process.
What is the Remaining Relative Visa 115?
The Remaining Relative Visa (subclass 115) is a permanent residency visa for individuals who have no near relatives outside Australia, aside from those already living there. It’s allows you to live, work, and study in Australia permanantly, giving you access to most of the benefits enjoyed by other permanent residents, including healthcare and the ability to apply for citizenship later.
Unlike other family visas, this one focuses specifically on applicants who are the last remaining close relative living overseas, aiming to bring them into the fold of an already-settled Australian family network.
Who Can Apply for the 115 Visa?
To apply for the Remaining Relative Visa 115 you must meet strict eligibility creteria. This visa is not open to everyone only endividuals in very specific family situations can qualify.
✅ You may be eligible if:
You are the last remaining near relative outside Australia.
All your close relatives (parents, siblings, children) are permanent residents or citizens of Australia.
You are sponsored by an eligible relative who is settled in Australia.
You meet health and character requirements.
This visa is ideal for people who have seen all their immediate family migrate and want to join them for good.
Who is Considered a “Near Relative”?
Under the Remaining Relative Visa 115, a near relative includes:
- A parent or step-parent
- A sibling or step-sibling
- A child or step-child (including adopted)
If you have even one near relative living outside Australia (excluding yourself), you may not be eligible, as the government strictly enforces the “remaining” part of the visa.
Sponsor Requirements
Your visa sponsor must meet certain conditions. They should be:
Over 18 year’s old
An Australian citizen, parmanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
settled in Australia
Willing and able to provide financial and settlement support
The sponsor will also need to sign an Assurance of Support (AoS) to show they can help you financially during your initial years in Australia, reducing your reliance on government benefits.
Key Benefits of the Remaining Relative Visa 115
- Permanent Residency: Live in Australia indefinitely
- Work and Study: Full rights to work and study like any other permanent resident
- Medicare Access: Enroll in Australia’s public health care scheme
- Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements
- Sponsor Other Family Members: You may sponsor relatives for visas in the future
How to Apply for the Remaining Relative Visa 115
Here a simple breakdown of the application process:
check Your Eligibility
confirm you meet all the criteria, including family relationships, sponsor status, and residency requirements.
Gather Required Documents
These may include identity proofs, relationship documents, sponsor details, and police/health clearances.
Submit the Application
This visa must be lodged outside Australia. Paper applications are currently required.
Wait for Processing
The processing time for the Remaining Relative Visa 115 is long, often several years due to a limited number of places under the family migration stream.
Respond to Requests for Information
the Department of Home Affairs may ask for more information or documents during processing.
Visa Decision
If granted, you can move to Australia and live permanently with your family.
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things to Know Before Applying
long Wait Times: Due to high demand and limited visa caps, processing may take 10+ years.
No bridging Visa: You must be outside Australia when you apply and when the decision is made.
Cost: As of 2025, the base application charge is approx. AUD 4,990, plus additional charges for family members.
Can I Include Family Members in My Application?
Yes. You can include dependent family members, such as:
- Your partner/spouse
- Your dependent children
All included applicants must also meet the health and character criteria.
Final Thoughts
The remaining Relative Visa 115 is one of Australia’s most emotionally meaningful migration pathways. tt offers a lifeline to people separated from their families, especially those with no other close relatives in their home country. While the process is lengthy and the criteria strict, the reward—a permanent home among loved ones in Australia is priceless.