Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117)
The Orphan Relative Visa, also known as Subclass 117, allows a single child to come to Australia to live with their relative if their parents have passed away, are unable to care for them, or cannot be found. As a permanent resident, the child will be able to work and study in Australia. During the child’s first two years in Australia, the sponsor must provide him/her with accommodation and financial assistance.
Key Eligibility requirements
Eligibility criteria
- Have a sponsor– Sponsors must be eligible Australian relatives, i.e., citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. A child’s siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and the child’s current spouse or de facto partner are all eligible relatives. In addition, the relative must be settled in Australia. As a general rule, ‘settling’ means living lawfully in Australia for at least two years. The case officer would also consider whether the sponsor or the sponsor’s partner has been charged with child abuse or neglect.
- Age –The child must be under 18 years old.
- Have no parent who can care for them- The parent of the child cannot care for the child due to one of the following:
- Deceased
- Permanently incapable of caring for the child
- Can’t be found
- Consent– The sponsor must have agreed to bring the child over to Australia. For example, permission may need to be obtained from the court to allow the child to leave his/her home country.
- Satisy health requirement
- Satisfy character requirement
- Bringing the child to Australia must also be in the best interest of the child.
Cost
From $1,630
Processing Times
Currently unavailable
The above list is not exhaustive. It should not be construed as immigration advice, but as general information only.