What are the Other Family Visa options?
Subclass 115 and 835 Remaining Relative Visa
In situations where a sole family member is the only one who is not an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident, this visa allows a family to be reunited permanently in Australia.
Applicants must:
- be sponsored by an eligible family member, such as a parent or sibling (or step equivalent)
- be able to demonstrate that they (and their spouse/partner) have no near relatives who are not Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents.
Dependent children under 18 years of age in who are in the applicants’ daily care can be included in the application and are not counted as other ‘near relatives’.
Applications for this visa are subject to quotas and queuing. Significant processing times apply.
Subclass 116 and 836 Carer Visa
Australian Citizens and permanent residents can consider sponsoring a relative to act as a carer for themselves or a family member that lives with them.
The person requiring care must be assessed as having a long-term or permanent condition that requires ongoing support for their daily needs. It must also be demonstrated that the person has no reasonable access to this care in Australia, either from another relative or welfare, hospital or community nursing services.
Visa applicants must be able to prove their relationship to the sponsor, as well as meeting health and character requirements.
Applications for this visa are subject to quotas and queuing. Significant processing times apply.
Subclass 114 and 838 Aged Dependent Relative
Applicants for this visa must be single and over 67 years of age, and have been financially dependent on an Australian citizen or permanent resident relative for at least 3 years.
Eligible Australian relatives include:
- partner, child, parent, brother, sister, stepchild, step-parent, stepbrother or stepsister
- grandparent, grandchild, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew or step equivalent
When assessing financial dependency, evidence of payment the applicant’s basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing is required. Other forms of income and support will also be considered and weighed against the sponsor’s support.
Applications for this visa are subject to quotas and queuing. Significant processing times apply.
What is capping and queuing?
Capping and queuing occurs when there are a limited number of visas available to be granted in each financial year. Applications are assessed for the core eligibility requirements, then – if met – placed into a queue where they wait until a position for grant becomes available. This can take many years.
Other Family Visas have very small numbers that can be granted each year, meaning there are significant waits for a place to become available.
How long will an Other Family Visa take to process?
As of 31 May 2025, Immigration advises:
| Application Type | Queue Dates being assessed | Estimated wait time for new applications |
| Carer | up to 31 July 2023 | 8 years |
| Remaining Relative | up to 28 February 2013 | 27 years |
| Aged Dependent Relative | up to 28 February 2013 | 27 years |
Why Choose AVIE for Immigration Services?
Personalized Guidance – Every migration journey is unique, and we provide tailored advice to match your circumstances and goals.
Expert Problem-Solving – Our team has extensive experience handling complex visa situations and finding tailored solutions to meet client needs.
Dedicated Support – We intentionally cap our agents’ caseloads to ensure you receive the time, care, and dedication you deserve. You’re never just a number with us.
Avoid Mistakes – Avoid costly delays and reapplications—our expertise ensures visa applications are done right the first time.
Stress-Free Process – We handle the complexities of visa applications, so you can focus on planning your new life in Australia.
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