Aged Dependent Relative Visa (114 & 838)
The Aged Dependent Relative Visa allows certain older dependent relatives of Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents and eligible New Zealand citizens to live permanently in Australia.
This visa category is available through two subclasses:
- Subclass 114 – Offshore application pathway
- Subclass 838 – Onshore application pathway
Both visa subclasses provide permanent residence in Australia, but they differ primarily in where the applicant must be located when applying and when the visa is granted.
- Permanent residence visa pathway
- For eligible aged dependent relatives
- Sponsorship is generally required
- Health and character requirements apply
- Provides a pathway to Australian citizenship if eligible
What is an Aged Dependent Relative Visa?
The Aged Dependent Relative Visa is a permanent family migration pathway designed for certain older relatives who are financially dependent on an eligible Australian relative.
The visa enables eligible applicants to live permanently in Australia with family members who are Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens.
The applicant must satisfy a range of eligibility requirements relating to age, dependency, sponsorship, health and character before the visa can be granted.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for an Aged Dependent Relative Visa, applicants must generally satisfy a number of legislative requirements.
Age Requirement
The applicant must generally be old enough to qualify as an aged applicant under Australian migration legislation.
Relationship Requirement
The applicant must be related to an eligible Australian relative in a manner recognised by the visa provisions.
Dependency Requirement
The applicant must generally demonstrate long-term financial dependence on the sponsoring relative.
Eligible Sponsor
An eligible sponsor is generally required before the visa can be granted.
Dependency Requirements
One of the most important aspects of this visa category is proving dependency.
The applicant must generally demonstrate that they have been financially dependent on the sponsoring relative for a substantial period before the visa application.
Evidence commonly considered may include financial support arrangements, living arrangements and other evidence showing ongoing dependence.
Because dependency is a central requirement, applicants should carefully assess whether sufficient supporting evidence exists before lodging an application.
Sponsorship Requirements
Applicants generally require sponsorship from an eligible Australian relative.
The sponsor will usually need to be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen who is settled in Australia.
Sponsorship obligations may continue after visa grant and should be carefully understood before an application is lodged.
For additional information, see our Sponsorship Requirements Guide.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must satisfy Australia's health and character requirements before the visa can be granted.
Health Requirements
Medical examinations may be required to demonstrate compliance with Australia's health criteria.
Character Requirements
Police clearances and character assessments may be required as part of the visa process.
Subclass 114 vs Subclass 838
Both visa subclasses provide permanent residence for eligible aged dependent relatives. The primary difference relates to where the applicant is located when applying and when the visa is granted.
Subclass 114 (Offshore)
- Permanent residence visa
- Application generally lodged outside Australia
- Applicant generally outside Australia at visa grant
- Requires eligible sponsor
- Dependency requirements apply
- Health and character requirements apply
Subclass 838 (Onshore)
- Permanent residence visa
- Application generally lodged in Australia
- Applicant generally in Australia at visa grant
- Requires eligible sponsor
- Dependency requirements apply
- Health and character requirements apply
The choice between Subclass 114 and Subclass 838 often depends on the applicant's location and visa status at the time of application. Individual circumstances should be carefully assessed before selecting a pathway.
Benefits of the Visa
Successful applicants receive Australian permanent residence and may enjoy a range of benefits available to permanent residents.
Permanent Residence
Live in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident.
Work and Study Rights
Permanent residents generally have unrestricted work and study rights.
Medicare Access
Eligible applicants may access Australia's public healthcare system.
Citizenship Pathway
Eligible permanent residents may later apply for Australian citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Subclass 114 and Subclass 838?
The primary difference is where the applicant is located when applying and when the visa is granted. Subclass 114 is generally an offshore pathway, while Subclass 838 is generally an onshore pathway.
Who can sponsor an Aged Dependent Relative Visa applicant?
Sponsors are generally Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents or eligible New Zealand citizens who are settled in Australia and satisfy sponsorship requirements.
What does 'dependent relative' mean for this visa?
The applicant must generally demonstrate long-term financial dependence on the sponsoring relative. Evidence of ongoing support is usually required.
Can I work in Australia if my visa is granted?
Yes. As a permanent resident, you generally have unrestricted work rights in Australia.
Can I include my spouse in the application?
Depending on the circumstances, eligible family members may be included in the application. Individual circumstances should be assessed carefully.
Is there an Assurance of Support requirement?
Certain family migration visas may involve Assurance of Support requirements. Applicants should review the specific requirements applicable to their circumstances.
Why do many applications require detailed evidence of dependency?
Dependency is one of the core legislative requirements of this visa category. The Department generally expects objective evidence demonstrating ongoing financial reliance over a significant period.
Does this visa provide permanent residence?
Yes. Both Subclass 114 and Subclass 838 provide permanent residence for successful applicants.
Reviewed by Principal Migration Consultant
This page has been reviewed by Mohammad Reza Azimi, Principal Migration Consultant at Shada Migration. Mohammad has assisted clients with Australian migration matters since 2009 and holds a Graduate Certificate in Migration Law from the Australian National University (ANU).
Need Help with an Aged Dependent Relative Visa?
Aged Dependent Relative Visa applications often involve complex dependency evidence, sponsorship requirements and family migration considerations. Professional advice may help clarify eligibility and identify the most appropriate visa pathway.
