Orphan Relative Visa Subclass 117
The Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117) allows an orphaned child outside Australia to migrate permanently to Australia under the care of an eligible Australian relative.
This visa is designed for children whose parents are deceased, cannot be located, or are unable to care for them, and where living with a close relative in Australia is in the child’s best interests.
What This Visa Allows
Permanent residence in Australia
Access to education and healthcare
The ability to live with an eligible Australian relative
A pathway to Australian citizenship in the future
This is a permanent visa.
Who Can Apply
The applicant must:
Be under 18 years of age
Be outside Australia at the time of application and decision
Be single and not engaged
Have no parent able to care for them because the parent is:
Deceased, or
Permanently incapacitated, or
Unable to be located
Sponsorship Requirements
The child must be sponsored by an eligible Australian relative, such as:
Brother or sister
Grandparent
Aunt or uncle
Step-relative in limited circumstances
The sponsor must:
Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen
Usually be settled in Australia
Agree to provide financial support, accommodation, and care for the child
Consent and Legal Requirements
Written consent is required from any person or authority with legal responsibility for the child
In some cases, court documents or legal approvals from the child’s home country may be required
Australian authorities must be satisfied the arrangement is genuine and lawful
Health and Character Criteria
The child must meet Australian health requirements
Any relevant character concerns are assessed in the context of the child’s age and circumstances
The decision must clearly demonstrate that granting the visa is in the best interests of the child
Cost
From AUD $1,870
Additional costs may apply for medical checks, police certificates, and legal documentation.
Processing Time
Processing times vary and depend on:
Completeness of documents
Legal consent requirements
Overseas authority verifications
Visa Aid will advise realistic timelines after reviewing the case.
Important Note
Orphan visas are highly scrutinised.
Incomplete evidence, missing consent, or unclear guardianship arrangements frequently lead to refusal.
This visa is not suitable if:
A parent is still able to care for the child
The child is already living in Australia
Sponsorship obligations cannot be clearly met
How Visa Aid Helps
Visa Aid assists with:
Eligibility assessment
Sponsorship review
Consent and guardianship documentation
Case preparation and submission
Ongoing communication with Home Affairs
Book a Consultation
If you are considering an Orphan Relative Visa (Subclass 117), professional advice is essential.
Book a consultation with Visa Aid to assess eligibility and avoid critical errors.
