117 (Orphan Relative) Visa

The Subclass 117 Visa, also known as the Orphan Relative Visa, offers a pathway for a single child to join their relative in Australia when their parents are deceased, unable to provide care, or untraceable. This visa allows the child to work, study, and settle permanently in Australia. During the initial two years of the child’s stay, the sponsor is responsible for offering housing and financial support.

Key Features:

• Enables migration to Australia as a permanent resident.
• Provides access to education and Medicare services.
• Offers the opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship if eligible.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be under 18 years old, single, and lacking parental care.
• An eligible relative who is a settled Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent resident must sponsor the applicant.
• The application must be submitted and decided upon while the applicant is outside Australia.

Sponsorship Eligibility:

The sponsor must be an eligible Australian relative, including siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or the current spouse or de facto partner of the child’s relative. The sponsoring relative should also be a permanent resident, Australian citizen, or eligible New Zealand citizen. Furthermore, the sponsor should have been living lawfully in Australia for a minimum of two years, indicating their settled status. The case officer may also consider any history of child-related offenses by the sponsor or their partner during the visa assessment.