Other Family Visas (Subclasses 114, 838, 116, 836, 115, 835)

The Australian "Other Family" visa category is a collection of permanent residency pathways designed for individuals with unique family circumstances that do not fall under standard partner or child categories. These pathways—comprising the Carer, Remaining Relative, and Aged Dependent Relative visas—are intended to reunite families where there is a critical need for care, financial dependency, or a total lack of family support outside of Australia.

It is vital to understand that these visas are subject to strict annual "caps" (limits on how many are granted) and a "queue" (a waiting list). Because demand significantly exceeds the available spots, these pathways are characterized by extremely long processing times, often spanning one to two decades.

The "Queue" and Waiting Times

These visas are not immediate solutions. Once the Department of Home Affairs confirms you meet the initial criteria, you are given a Queue Date.

• Carer Visas: Estimated wait of approximately 12 years.
• Remaining Relative & Aged Dependent: Estimated wait of approximately 22 years.

Onshore vs. Offshore

• Bridging Visas: If you apply for an onshore visa (835, 836, 838), you may be eligible for a Bridging Visa, allowing you to remain in Australia while the application is processed.
• No Further Stay: If your current visitor visa has Condition 8503 (No Further Stay), you cannot apply for the onshore versions of these visas unless you obtain a formal waiver.
• Offshore Applicants: If you apply for an offshore visa (114, 115, 116), you do not receive a bridging visa and must wait for the duration of the queue outside of Australia.

Once the visa is finally granted after the waiting period, you receive the following rights:

• Right to Remain: You may live in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident.
• Work and Study Rights: Full rights to work in any occupation and study at Australian institutions.
• Medicare Access: Access to Australia's public healthcare system, Medicare.
• Travel Rights: A five-year travel facility allowing you to leave and re-enter Australia (after which you must apply for a Resident Return Visa).
• Path to Citizenship: Eligibility to apply for Australian citizenship once residency requirements are met.
• Social Security: Access to certain social security payments, though most have a mandatory waiting period (often 4 years).