Aged Dependent Relative Visa – Subclass 114 / 838

Aged Dependent Relative Visa – Subclass 114 / 838

Support Vulnerable Elderly Family Members to Live Permanently in Australia

The Aged Dependent Relative Visa (Subclass 114 and 838) enables older, financially dependent relatives of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to live permanently in Australia. This visa is ideal for aged individuals who rely on their Australian family for financial and emotional support and have no other close family members overseas.

It provides a compassionate solution for elderly dependents with limited support options abroad, allowing them to live safely and permanently in a stable family environment.

What Is the Subclass 114 / 838 Visa?

There are two streams under this visa:

• Subclass 114 – For aged dependent relatives applying from outside Australia
• Subclass 838 – For aged dependent relatives already in Australia on a valid visa

Both visas grant permanent residency, access to Medicare, and the ability to live with sponsoring family members indefinitely.

Why Apply for This Visa?

If you’re supporting an elderly relative who depends on you financially and emotionally, this visa offers a legal pathway for long-term cohabitation and care.

• Live in Australia permanently with sponsoring family
• Access to Medicare and essential services
• No requirement to meet the Balance of Family Test
• Include a partner in the application if applicable
• Pathway to Australian citizenship

Who Should Consider It?

This visa offers a solution for families who are the only remaining support system for elderly relatives. It’s particularly valuable in situations where aged family members face isolation or lack of care overseas, allowing them to age with dignity in a safe, nurturing environment.

This visa is best suited for:

• Elderly relatives with no spouse or close family support abroad
• Individuals fully or mostly financially dependent on their sponsor for over 3 years
• Families committed to caring for ageing relatives long-term

Visa Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, it’s important to understand the key criteria. This visa is designed to support vulnerable aged relatives who genuinely rely on their family for day-to-day living expenses and have no close family abroad.

To be eligible, the applicant must:

• Be old enough to qualify for the Australian age pension
• Be financially dependent on the sponsor for at least 3 years
• Be sponsored by a relative who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible NZ citizen
• Have no close family members outside Australia
• Meet health and character requirements

Application Process: Step-by-Step

Navigating the process takes time and careful preparation. Here’s how to move forward with your aged dependent visa application:

1. Determine the appropriate subclass (114 offshore / 838 onshore)
2. Prepare identity, dependency, and sponsor documentation
3. Submit the application and join the visa processing queue
4. Undergo required health and police checks
5. Await visa outcome while remaining lawful in Australia (for Subclass 838)

What You’ll Need

Compiling accurate evidence of dependency and identity is essential. These documents help demonstrate the applicant’s need for permanent support from their sponsoring family.

• Proof of relationship to your sponsor
• Evidence of financial dependence (bank statements, accommodation support, etc.)
• Sponsor’s citizenship or residency documents
• Police and medical clearances
• Age verification (to meet aged pension criteria)

Health & Character Requirements

All applicants must meet Australia’s standard character and health checks to ensure the safety of the community and the well-being of the visa holder.

• Health examinations are mandatory for all applicants
• Police clearances from countries lived in for 12+ months must be submitted

Why Apply with Us?

Aged dependent visas require thorough evidence of financial dependence and careful planning. Our team ensures every detail supports your case for long-term residency.

✅ Advice on determining the right subclass and stream

✅ Help gathering dependency evidence

✅ Sponsorship and application support

✅ Strategic planning to avoid processing delays

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DISCLAIMER: This page is intended as general guidance only. For official information, visit the Department of Home Affairs.