Orphan Relative Visa 837

The Subclass 837 visa is a permanent visa for a child who is already in Australia, and whose parents have died, are permanently incapacitated or cannot be found. The child must have an eligible relative in Australia willing to sponsor them. 

What you can do with this visa

• Live in Australia indefinitely as a permanent resident. 
• Study and work in Australia. 
• Access Medicare and other benefits of a permanent resident. 
• After meeting residence requirements, apply for Australian citizenship. 

Eligibility

• The child must be in Australia when the application is made and when the visa is granted. 
• Must be under 18 years of age and single.
• The child has no parent able to care for them (parents deceased, missing, or permanently unable to care). 
• Must have an eligible sponsor in Australia: An Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible NZ citizen relative and must undertake responsibility for the child’s accommodation and support for at least the first two years. 
• The child must meet health and character requirements. 

How to apply

• Confirm child and sponsor eligibility.
• Collect required documents (identity, orphan proof, relationship, health, character).
• Apply while the child is in Australia on a valid visa.
• Pay the fee and wait for the decision.