The Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa allows a child who is single and currently in Australia to stay permanently with a relative if their parents are deceased, cannot care for them, or cannot be located.
Visa Overview
Stay
Permanently in Australia.
Cost
From AUD 1,920.
Processing Times
Processing times vary. For recent processing times, consult the visa processing time guide tool, which offers a general estimate.
Benefits of This Visa
With this visa, the child can:
- Live Permanently in Australia as a permanent resident.
- Work and Study in line with Australian law.
- Access Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare scheme.
- Sponsor Eligible Relatives for Australian visas.
- Apply for Australian Citizenship when eligible.
Travel Rights
The child can:
- Travel Freely to and from Australia for five years from the date the visa is granted, as long as the travel facility remains valid.
- Renew Travel Rights after the initial five-year period by applying for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to re-enter as a permanent resident.
- Consider Australian Citizenship: If they become a citizen, they will not need a visa to re-enter Australia and can apply for an Australian passport.
Check the child’s travel facility end date using VEVO.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, the child must:
- Be Under 18 and Single with no parent able to care for them.
- Have a Suitable Relative: The child must have a settled relative in Australia who is an Australian citizen, eligible New Zealand citizen, or Australian permanent resident.
- Be In Australia (not in immigration clearance) when applying and during the decision-making period.
Note: Children on another visa with a “no further stay” condition are ineligible to apply.
Obligations for the Child
If granted this visa, the child and any dependent family members included must:
- Comply with All Australian Laws.
Additional Information
Including Other Children
If the child has siblings who wish to apply, each must submit a separate application. Dependent children can be added to the main application before the visa decision is made, provided they meet health requirements.
Cost
The main applicant’s fee is AUD 1,920, with additional fees for each dependent child. Other potential costs include health checks, police certificates, and biometrics.
Visa Label
The visa will be digitally linked to the child’s passport. A grant notification letter with the visa grant number will be provided to access the digital record.
Application Process
Location Requirement
The child must be in Australia both when applying and at the time of the decision.
Processing Considerations
Applications may experience delays if they are incomplete or missing required documents, or if additional verification is needed. Payment of the correct visa application charge is required for processing.
How WIDEN Migration Can Assist You
Navigating the visa process can be complex, especially with the sensitive circumstances involved in an Orphan Relative Visa application. WIDEN Migration is here to guide you through each step, from ensuring all eligibility requirements are met to gathering the necessary documents and managing the application process. Our team is committed to offering you a smooth, compassionate, and expert experience in securing the best outcome for your family.