Orphan Relative visa 117 / 837
For a child under 18 whose parents cannot care for them, sponsored by a relative.
In force
Who it is for
A child under 18, not married or in a de facto relationship, who cannot be cared for by parents (both deceased, permanently incapacitated, or whereabouts unknown), sponsored by a relative in Australia.
Main requirements
- The sponsor is a sibling, grandparent, aunt or uncle (or step equivalent) who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen.
- Evidence of the parents' situation.
- Health, character and the best interests of the child.
Where you apply from
117 outside Australia; 837 in Australia.
Your journey, step by step
From the first enquiry to the decision and after, with how a registered migration agent helps at each step. No step promises an outcome.
- First enquiry
You tell us your current visa, where you are, your family and any past refusals or cancellations.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent identifies your current visa, its conditions and expiry, and any early risk. - Service agreement
Before any personal advice or preparation, you receive a written service agreement and the OMARA Consumer Guide.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent sets out the work, the fee and the refund policy in writing. No money is taken for visa work before the agreement is signed. - Evidence
Death certificates, medical evidence of incapacity or evidence of searching for a missing parent.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent prepares sensitive evidence carefully. - Lodge
Lodge with the sponsor.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent lodges a complete application. - Grant
Permanent residence.
How a registered migration agent helpsA registered migration agent plans settlement.
Government charges from 1 July 2026
Paid to the Department of Home Affairs, not to us.
| Applicant or item | Charge (A$) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | A$2,475 |
| Family member 18 or over | A$1,235 |
| Family member under 18 | A$625 |
Check every charge in the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
Processing times
Home Affairs Global visa processing times, updated 29 September 2026 (applications finalised to 31 August 2026). Read 22 October 2026. A guide only, not a promise.
| 117 outside Australia | 50% in 75 months, 90% in 97 months |
|---|
Common refusal reasons
- Parents' situation not shown.
- Sponsor not eligible.
- Best interests of the child.
Document checklist
Tick items as you gather them. Your ticks stay on this device only.
- Application
Recent and upcoming changes
No recent changes are listed for this visa. Check the Home Affairs page for the latest information.
Talk it through before you apply.
The first 15 minutes are free and general. Personal advice starts after a written service agreement.
Information checked 22 October 2026. General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules and charges change; check the official sources before you act.