Remaining Relative Visa (Subclass 835)

The “Last Remaining Relative Visa” is a specific subclass of the Family Stream visa category in Australia’s immigration system. This visa is designed for individuals who have close family ties in Australia as a “last remaining relative.”

Key points about the Last Remaining Relative Visa:

1. Eligibility Criteria: The Last Remaining Relative Visa is intended for individuals who have all his relatives living lawfully and permanently in Australia. The relatives must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

2. Sponsorship: An applicant for the Last Remaining Relative Visa must be sponsored by their eligible family member in Australia. The sponsor needs to provide financial support and assistance to the applicant for a specified period after their arrival in Australia.

3. Assurance of Support: An assurance of support might be required for the applicant. This is a commitment by the sponsor (and, if necessary, others) to provide financial support and assistance to the visa holder so that they would not rely on Australian social services.

4. Balance of Family Test: The applicant must meet the “balance of family” test, which generally requires that there are no other near relatives (siblings, step-siblings, parents) living lawfully and permanently in any country other than Australia.

5. Health and Character Requirements: Applicants and their family members (if included in the application) generally need to meet certain health and character requirements as part of the visa application process.

6. Permanent Residency: Once granted, the Last Remaining Relative Visa provides permanent residency to the visa holder, allowing them to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. Visa holders also have access to certain social services and benefits available to permanent residents.