Apply for
Relative Visas for Australia
Allow certain family members of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live in Australia long-term based on strong dependency or care needs.
Relative Visas for Australia
For a relative to live in Australia permanently to provide substantial, ongoing care to someone with a long-term or permanent medical condition where no other reasonable care is available.
For a single child under 18 to live in Australia with an eligible relative when their parents have died, can’t care for them or can’t be found.
For a person whose only near relatives are living in Australia as citizens/PRs/eligible NZ citizens, allowing them to join their family permanently.
For a person whose only near relatives are living in Australia as citizens/PRs/eligible NZ citizens, allowing them to stay/join family permanently (onshore pathway).
For a single, older relative in Australia who is financially dependent on an Australian citizen/PR/eligible NZ relative and wants to stay permanently.
116: applicant must be outside Australia at lodgement and grant. 836: applicant must be in Australia at lodgement and grant.
Child must be outside Australia when the application is lodged and when the visa is decided.
Applicant is generally outside Australia at lodgement and at grant (offshore pathway).
Applicant must be in Australia at lodgement and at grant/decision (onshore only).
Applicant must be in Australia on an eligible visa when applying and usually at decision (onshore only).
The relative needing care (or their spouse/de facto) who is an Australian citizen, PR or eligible NZ citizen and over 18.
Eligible relative in Australia (sibling, grandparent, aunt/uncle, etc.) who is a settled citizen, PR or eligible NZ citizen.
A parent, sibling, step-parent or step-sibling in Australia who is a citizen, PR or eligible NZ citizen and can give Assurance of Support.
Same sponsor concept as 115: a parent, sibling, step-parent or step-sibling who is a citizen, PR or eligible NZ citizen and can meet sponsorship/AoS requirements.
An Australian citizen, PR or eligible NZ citizen relative (usually child, sibling, etc.) who has been providing ongoing financial support.
Australian relative (or their partner) has a long-term or permanent medical condition and no reasonable access to care from other relatives or services.
Child has no parent able to care for them because parents are dead, permanently incapacitated or can’t be located.
Applicant must be the remaining relative – they and their partner have no near relatives outside Australia, and all near relatives are in Australia.
Same “remaining relative” test as 115, but assessed for an onshore applicant.
Applicant must be aged and financially dependent on the Australian relative for a substantial period (usually 3+ years), and be genuinely reliant due to age/health.
No specific age test for the carer; focus is on the care need.
Child must be under 18, single and without a spouse/de facto partner.
No strict age test – can be any age if remaining-relative criteria are met.
No strict age test – can be any age if remaining-relative criteria are met.
Applicant must meet “aged” requirement (age-pension age) and be single.
Permanent family visa – grants permanent residency.
Permanent visa for the child.
Permanent resident visa (but highly capped and queued).
Permanent resident visa (but highly capped and queued).
Permanent resident visa (onshore, capped and queued).
Stay in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident; travel facility usually 5 years, then RRV if needed.
Child can stay in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident.
Stay indefinitely in Australia once granted, but decision may be many years away due to capping/queuing.
Stay indefinitely in Australia once granted, but decision may be many years away due to capping/queuing (onshore queue).
Stay indefinitely in Australia as a permanent resident once granted (after a long wait).
Full work and study rights as a permanent resident.
Child can study and later work with full PR rights.
Full work and study rights as a permanent resident once the visa is granted.
Full work and study rights as a permanent resident once the visa is granted.
Full work and study rights as a permanent resident.
Eligible for Medicare as a permanent resident.
Eligible for Medicare as a permanent resident.
Eligible for Medicare after grant as a permanent resident (no Medicare while offshore waiting).
Often Medicare access while onshore on a bridging visa (if eligible), and full Medicare after PR grant.
Eligible for Medicare as a permanent resident; often on a bridging visa with Medicare access while waiting onshore.
Partner and dependent children can usually be included in the carer’s application if they meet criteria.
One child per application; siblings usually lodge separate linked applications.
Applicant may include certain family members in the same application if they meet dependency rules.
Applicant may include certain family members in the same application if they meet dependency rules (onshore).
Usually focused on one aged dependent relative; other relatives need their own visas.
When there is a genuine, long-term medical care need and no other reasonable care options in Australia; used to bring or keep a family member as primary carer.
When a child has effectively lost their parents’ care and needs a stable home with relatives in Australia.
When all of someone’s close family are in Australia, and they want to migrate to join them permanently despite long queues and AoS requirements.
When the person is already in Australia and meets remaining-relative rules, and wants a permanent family outcome despite long queues and AoS requirements.
When an elderly, single relative in Australia is heavily financially dependent on family and needs a long-term, permanent status rather than temporary visas.
Can I apply for an Relative Visa?
We’re in Our Clients’ Hearts
Excellence speaks for itself—our clients’ emotions tell the story.
I would give 5 stars to Knowbal's team! Special thanks to Rishav- he has a good knowledge and listens patiently to every concern and provides very good solutions. Highly recommended !!!! 🎉💯
In-depth knowledge about immigration laws and regulations that made my mother's visa application processed and approved within a week. Highly recommended
Nilesh and Nirav proved to be true immigration experts, turning the Subsequent Entrant visa 491 process for a sister-in-law into a genuinely smooth and delightful experience. Their exceptional knowledge and unwavering support made them the best possible agents to have in your corner.
Knowbal Migration provided exceptional support from student visa to Subclass 190 PR approval. Rishav was particularly outstanding — proactive, detail-oriented, and consistently followed up to ensure timelines were met. The team also efficiently handled a parents' visitor visa. A genuinely stress-free experience, highly recommended for reliable migration guidance.
Knowbal Migration and Education played a pivotal role in securing a 190 PR in Adelaide. Dhruv deserves special recognition for his thorough guidance and consistent support from start to finish, making the entire visa process smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Highly recommended.
Knowbal Migration delivered outstanding results for our family — securing a parents' visitor visa in just two days and the 191 visa within six months. Their highly skilled team was always responsive and supportive. Special thanks to Nirav Bhai for exceptional guidance throughout.
After a 17-year migration journey, Knowbal delivered the breakthrough Prarthit had long sought. Nileshbhai's compassion, expertise, and genuine commitment to clients' dreams — not just fees — sets Knowbal apart. The team goes well above and beyond, earning lifelong gratitude from those they serve.
Nilesh, Pragat, Trushen, and the entire Knowbal team provided genuinely trustworthy and wholehearted support throughout the 190 visa process. Their prompt actions, constant motivation, and dedication were truly appreciated. For anyone seeking a reliable migration agent, Knowbal is a team worth trusting completely.
Amazing experience with Knowbal Migration for visitor and 191 visa applications. Quick results, including a parents' visa in just 2 days. Skilled and responsive team. Special thanks to Niravbhai for excellent support.
Knowbal Migration delivered an exceptional student visa experience from start to finish. Their professionalism, expertise, and genuine dedication were evident throughout, with the team ensuring all documents were in order and deadlines were met. Their in-depth knowledge of visa regulations made the process confident and seamless.
Knowbal Migration once again delivered excellent results — assisting with a 482 visa previously and now a successful JRP positive skill assessment. The expertise of Nilesh, Mani Raj, Rishav, and Trushen truly stands out. Finding such dedicated and knowledgeable professionals is rare. Wholeheartedly recommended.
After a student visa refusal, Knowbal Migration stepped in with confidence and a clear plan. Within just one month, their fast-track ART process and dedicated support resulted in a successful approval — something once thought impossible. Their professionalism and care genuinely changed this family's lives.
Rishavbhai and the Knowbal Group provided exemplary support throughout the 186 PR visa process. Professional, knowledgeable, and patient, Rishav explained every step clearly, ensured accurate documentation, and made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for dependable and honest migration assistance.
Highly recommend Knowbal Migration for visa services. Nileshbhai and Niravbhai provided excellent guidance and support for my 482 visa. The team was responsive, patient, and helped me through every step successfully.
Kunalbhai and Niravbhai at Knowbal Migration provided exceptional support throughout the 482 visa process. They communicated clearly, handled everything professionally, and were consistently available to help with any concerns. Their guidance made what could have been a stressful experience genuinely smooth and manageable. Highly recommended.
The 482 visa was granted thanks to the outstanding support of Sushanti and Shweta at Knowbal Migration. They were professional, approachable, and consistently available to address queries. Their guidance made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for anyone needing migration assistance.
Knowbal Migration is a highly recommended immigration consultant known for their hardworking, thorough approach. The team addresses every query with care and expertise, ensuring clients are well-informed throughout the process. Their comprehensive knowledge and genuine dedication make them a standout choice for anyone seeking migration support.
.avif)
The student visa process with Knowbal Migration was a wonderful experience, thanks largely to Trushen Bhatt's prompt and professional approach. He patiently answered every query, ensuring confidence and clarity throughout. Their reliable and efficient service comes highly recommended for anyone navigating migration.
Despite a high-risk situation involving a recent course change and new marriage, Knowbal Migration provided thorough support and honest guidance. With special assistance from Mittal ma'am, both visas were granted in just two days. A reliable team delivering straightforward and stress-free migration outcomes.
Trushenbhai and Shubhambhai at Knowbal provided outstanding support throughout a master's admission process, helping secure enrolment with maximum subject credits transferred from prior studies. Their detailed guidance on university selection, credit evaluation, and documentation requirements saved both time and tuition costs. Truly exceptional service.
.avif)
Knowbal Migration provided helpful and professional guidance for a course change, with staff who were consistently polite and well-informed. Trushen Sir's sound advice on course-related matters stood out in particular. A trustworthy team offering top-notch migration services that comes highly recommended.
Knowbal Migration provided outstanding guidance spanning a student visa, skill assessment, Tasmania state nomination, and 491 visa. Nilesh Bhai and Nirav Bhai are exceptionally professional and willing to go the extra mile, handling even complex requests like AFP S56 and medical examinations with remarkable efficiency.
Aleeha and Nirav at Knowbal Migration demonstrated outstanding guidance, persistence, and professionalism in securing a Visitor Visa Family Stream for a sister, successfully navigating earlier difficulties to achieve the outcome. Their dedication and genuine care throughout the process were truly appreciated.
Knowbal Migration's spouse visa services were handled with patience, consistency, and genuine commitment throughout. Referred by a trusted family friend, the experience exceeded expectations in every way. Their professionalism and dedication to each case embody exactly what their name implies — they are truly knowledgeable.
Very good experience with Knowbal Migration. Nirav and Aleeha provided great support throughout my visa process and helped achieve a positive outcome. Thank you to the team for their assistance.
After a failed application with another agency, Knowbal Group helped secure admission to the University of Melbourne's 2023 intake for a Master of Nursing Science — a result described as unbelievable. Trushenbhai and Kajalmam's efficiency and sound counsel made what seemed impossible become a reality.
Knowbal Migration's support during the spouse visa process was exceptional from start to finish. Trushenbhai and his team handled everything efficiently, ensuring the visa was approved without a single issue. Their reliability and professionalism make them a highly recommended choice for any migration matter.
Knowbal Migration provided clear, professional support throughout both the visa process and skills assessment. The team's guidance with documentation was thorough, ensuring everything proceeded smoothly and without unnecessary stress. Their timely responses and consistent professionalism are greatly appreciated and come with a strong recommendation.
Knowbal Migration's expertise and unwavering dedication made a significant difference throughout the wife's visa journey, even when paperwork confusion arose. Trushen Bhai's patience and clear explanations were instrumental in navigating the process successfully. Their professionalism and attention to detail are deeply appreciated and unreservedly recommended.
Trushen Bhai at Knowbal Migration and Education provided remarkable support throughout the wife's visa process — offering clear guidance, answering every question, and ensuring all documentation was submitted correctly. His expertise and dedication turned what could have been a stressful journey into a smooth and successful experience.
Working with Kunalbhai from Knowbal Migration on an ART application was a thoroughly positive experience. He was diligent, kept clients well-informed throughout, and made the overall process much more manageable. The outcome was successful, and Knowbal is strongly recommended for ART or any migration challenge.
Knowbal Migration, and Dhruv in particular, delivered outstanding service throughout the ACS skill assessment process. Dhruv's dedication was exceptional — guiding clients at every stage, even during holidays, with professionalism and genuine attention to detail. Their commitment to understanding unique circumstances made all the difference.
.avif)
Trushen Bhatt and Knowbal Education provided outstanding, transparent support throughout the wife's visa process. His professionalism, in-depth knowledge, and patient guidance made every step smooth and stress-free. All documentation was handled with precision, ensuring the process felt organized and efficient. Genuinely recommended for anyone needing visa assistance.
Dhruv Sir and the Knowbal Migration team provided truly outstanding support throughout the wife's skills assessment process. Their expert advice, prompt responses, and step-by-step guidance made what could have been a complex experience remarkably smooth and stress-free. Deeply grateful for their dedication and professionalism.
Exceptional support from Niravbhai and Aleeha for our partner visa. Professional, responsive, and detail-oriented throughout the process. Their clear communication made everything stress-free. Highly recommend Knowbal Migration.
Great experience with Knowbal Migration for my in-laws' visitor visa. Niravbhai, Aleeha, and Hiralben handled everything professionally, from documentation to queries. Smooth process and excellent support throughout. Highly recommend their services.
Knowbal Migration and Education delivered an excellent TR 485 visa experience, with Chakshu standing out for her exceptional professionalism and patient guidance at every stage. Supported by Rishav and the team, all documents were prepared accurately and submitted on time, making the process smooth and stress-free.
Knowbal Consultants provided wonderful guidance throughout a Science Technician skills assessment with VETASSESS, resulting in a positive outcome. Rishav Verma and Dhruv Goswami were especially supportive, professional, and consistently available to answer questions. Their quick turnaround and excellent customer service made for an outstanding overall experience.
Nilesh Bhai, Trushen Bhai, and Pragat Bhai delivered exceptional support across the 485 visa, skill assessment, state nomination, and 491 visa grant. Knowbal truly embodies its name — their knowledge is optimal and their dedication is noble. An unreserved and enthusiastic recommendation.
Kunal and Rishav at Knowbal Migration were both friendly and highly efficient in securing a positive skills assessment. Their approachable manner and expertise left a strong impression. For anyone seeking experienced and knowledgeable support across all types of visa applications, Knowbal Migration is the best choice.
Thanks to Knowbal Migration's expertise and dedicated support, a Parent's Visitor visa was granted in just four days — a result that made a significant difference for the entire family. Their commitment to client success is truly commendable, and their services are highly recommended.
Kunal Bhai and the Knowbal team provided exceptional support throughout both the primary 485 visa and a husband's subsequent 485 application, both successfully approved. Their patience, honesty, and genuine care during stressful moments made the family feel truly safe in experienced, capable hands.
Knowbal Migration provided outstanding support for my parents' visitor visa. Niral Modi, Aleeha, and Hiralben were professional, patient, and thorough. Their clear communication and attention to detail ensured a smooth visa approval. Highly recommend their reliable migration services.
.avif)
Knowbal Migration and Education played a key role in getting the 485 visa approved. Don and Dhruv handled the application with great care and professionalism, making the entire process straightforward and easy to navigate. Their helpfulness and efficiency come very highly recommended.
Dhruv Goswami of Knowbal Group provided extremely helpful and expert advice for a highly critical EA degree assessment application. His guidance throughout the process was invaluable, demonstrating both the depth of knowledge and the genuine care that sets Knowbal Group apart in the migration industry.
The Knowbal Visa Application Process
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
.avif)
.avif)
.avif)
Frequently Asked Questions
For almost all Relative visas (Carer, Remaining Relative, Aged Dependent Relative, Orphan Relative), the sponsor must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen and usually “settled” in Australia. If you’re still on a student or 485 visa, you normally can’t sponsor yet, but you can start planning which option will fit once you get PR and how your relatives will manage in the meantime. A quick strategy chat helps you line up your PR + family timeline so you don’t lose years later.
Because Relative visas are often capped and queued for many years, you want to avoid lodging until you’re sure:
- you meet the sponsor requirements, and
- the visa is actually realistic for your family situation.
In most cases, it’s smarter to secure your own PR first, then decide whether a Relative visa, Parent visa, Child visa or another option is the best fit. We map out your study/485 → PR pathway first, then show how and when family visas can slot in.
Often, yes – but it needs to be managed carefully. Many families combine a long-term strategy (Remaining Relative / Aged Dependent / Carer) with short-term options such as Visitor visas or, for parents, a Sponsored Parent 870. The risk is that frequent or long visits can create “genuine temporary entrant” concerns on visitor applications if not explained properly. We usually design a visit + long-term plan together, so your relatives can see you in Australia without harming future applications
These visas all sound similar but target different family structures:
- Relative visas focus on dependency, care needs or having no other close family.
- Parent visas focus on parents of settled children in Australia.
- Child visas focus on children of Australians/PRs.
Rather than guessing, we look at your full family tree, who lives where, who depends on whom, and who needs care, then recommend the category that actually fits migration law – not just what sounds emotionally right.
Beyond visa charges, Relative visas can involve:
- long-term living and care costs in Australia,
- possible Assurance of Support or income requirements, and
- the reality that some relatives may not be able to work due to age, disability or visa settings.
We walk through a realistic cost picture (not just the application fee) so you and your family understand what life in Australia will look like for everyone once they arrive.
Offers detailed guides, checklists, and personalized consultations to navigate the visa application process.Very strong. The Department expects:
- detailed medical reports from specialists,
- clear explanation of the daily care your relative needs, and
- evidence that no other reasonable care is available in Australia (for example, from other family members, community services or paid care).
This is not a simple “my mum needs help” statement. We usually coordinate with doctors, support services and family to build a care picture that actually meets the legal test, before you spend money on a Carer visa.
Some of the biggest issues we see are:
- applying for a Remaining Relative visa while still having close family overseas,
- claiming “dependency” when the relative is financially independent,
- choosing the wrong visa type (e.g. using a Relative visa when a Parent/Child option is more accurate), and
- lodging before the sponsor is properly “settled” or eligible.
These mistakes can cost families years and thousands of dollars. That’s why we always start with a detailed family-mapping and risk review before recommending any Relative visa pathway.
Still Curious?
Book a call with our Expert
We will provide you full PR pathway, does not matter how complex your case is. Just fill out the enquiry form here!
