Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117)

The Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117) is a permanent residency visa that provides an opportunity for single children to live and study in Australia permanently. This visa allows children to join a relative in Australia if their parents are deceased, unable to care for them, or cannot be found.

By obtaining the Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117), the child gains the ability to build a new life in Australia, access Medicare benefits, and even apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.

Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 117 Visa

In order to be eligible for the Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117), the child must meet the following requirements:

  • The child must be under 18 years of age, single, and have no parent capable of caring for them.
  • A relative who is a settled Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent resident must sponsor the child.
  • The child must be outside Australia at the time of application and when the decision is made.
  • An eligible sibling or step-sibling, grandparent or step-grandparent, aunt, uncle, or step-aunt/uncle must sponsor the child, and the sponsorship must be approved.
  • The child’s parents must be deceased, permanently incapable of caring for the child, or cannot be found. The visa will not be granted if the child’s parents are capable of caring for them but do not want to.
  • The child must have consent to migrate to Australia.
  • The child must meet the health and character requirements.
  • The child must have paid any outstanding debts owed to the Australian government.

Application Process for Subclass 117 Visa

The application process for the Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117) involves the following steps:

  1. Check your eligibility: Utilize our online eligibility assessment tool to determine if you meet the requirements for this visa.
  2. Find an eligible sponsor: A family member who is a settled Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent resident can sponsor the child. The sponsorship must be approved.
  3. Apply for the visa: Once a sponsor is found, the child can apply for the visa online. They will need to provide evidence of their eligibility, health, character requirements, and consent to migrate to Australia.
  4. Wait for a decision: The processing time for this visa can vary, and it may take several years to process the application.

At Migration Expert Australia, we are committed to simplifying the application process for you. Our team of expert migration consultants is available to provide guidance and support throughout the process, ensuring that your application has the best chance of success.

Learn More: Book a Visa Consultation Today