Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835)

The Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) is a permanent visa that allows individuals to stay in Australia to be with their only close family members. This visa is specifically designed for those who have a remaining relative who is an Australian citizen, Permanent resident, or Eligible New Zealand citizen.

Process

In order to apply for the Remaining Relative visa, you must be in Australia at the time of application and when a decision is made on your application. Additionally, you must have an eligible sponsor who is willing to support your visa application. It is important to note that the sponsorship must be approved by the Australian government.

Help with your visa

If you require assistance with your visa application, it is important to be aware of who can provide help. Registered migration agents, legal practitioners, or exempt persons are the only individuals authorized to provide immigration assistance. Before seeking help, it is recommended to gather information on who can help with your visa application.

With this visa, you can

The Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) allows individuals to stay in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident. This visa also grants the right to work and study in Australia, as well as enroll in Australia's public healthcare scheme, Medicare. Additionally, individuals with this visa have the ability to sponsor their relatives to come to Australia and, if eligible, apply for Australian citizenship.

Travel to and from Australia for 5 years

Individuals with the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) can freely travel to and from Australia as many times as they want for a period of 5 years from the date the visa is granted. After the initial 5-year period, individuals may need to apply for a Resident Return visa (RRV) to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident. Alternatively, individuals may consider applying for Australian citizenship to eliminate the need for a visa. It is important to check the travel facility on the visa to determine when it expires.

How long you can stay

The Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) is a permanent visa, allowing individuals to stay in Australia indefinitely. For citizenship purposes, the permanent residence period starts on the day the visa is granted.

Include family

When applying for the Remaining Relative visa, individuals have the option to include members of their family unit in the application. Family members who apply for the visa must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government. It is important to note that family members who are not coming to Australia may also have to meet these requirements.

Cost

The cost of the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) is determined by the Australian government. There is an additional charge for each family member who applies with the main applicant. The visa fee is paid in two installments: the first installment is paid when applying, and the second installment is paid when requested by the government. Additional costs for health checks, police certificates, and biometrics may also apply.

Apply from

Applicants must be in Australia when applying for the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) and when a decision is made on their application. It is important to ensure that all required documents and forms are included with the application.

Processing times

Due to high demand, processing times for the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) can vary. It is recommended to use the visa processing time guide tool provided by the Australian government to get an indication of processing times for recently decided applications. It is important to note that individual circumstances may affect processing times.

Your obligations

Once granted the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835), it is important to obey all Australian laws. This includes adhering to immigration regulations and maintaining lawful status in Australia.

Visa label

The Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835) will be digitally linked to the passport of the visa holder. There will be no physical visa label placed in the passport.

Eligibility criteria

In order to be eligible for the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835), applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a remaining relative of an Australian citizen, Permanent resident, or Eligible New Zealand citizen
• Be sponsored by an eligible sponsor
• Meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government
• Have paid any debts owed to the Australian government
• Not have had a visa canceled or a previous application refused
• Sign the Australian Values Statement
• Provide accurate and complete documents to support the application

Step-by-step guide

Before applying for the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835), it is important to gather all necessary documents and ensure their accuracy. This includes providing proof of identity, relationship, and financial support. The application must be completed in English and submitted on paper. Once the application is submitted, it is important to stay lawful by holding a valid visa while the application is being processed. Any changes in personal circumstances should be promptly notified to the Australian government. The final decision on the visa application will be communicated in writing, and if granted, the visa holder must adhere to all visa conditions and obligations.

For sponsors

If you are sponsoring an applicant for the Remaining Relative visa (subclass 835), it is important to meet the eligibility criteria as an Australian citizen, Permanent resident, or Eligible New Zealand citizen. You must provide support, accommodation, and financial assistance to the applicant and any family members for the first 2 years of their stay in Australia. The sponsorship obligations last for 2 years from the date the visa is granted. It is important to note that withdrawing sponsorship after the visa is granted may result in the cancellation of the visa. Any changes in personal circumstances should be promptly notified to the Australian government.