Reunite with Your Australian Family - Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa

The Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa provides orphaned children a pathway to permanent residency in Australia with their Australian relative.

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Visa Snapshot

Visa Type: Permanent Residency

Eligibility: Orphaned children under the care of an eligible Australian relative

Pathway to PR: Direct pathway to permanent residency

Work Rights: Full work rights in Australia

Healthcare: Eligible for Medicare

Study Rights: Full study rights in Australia

Family Inclusion: Child must be an orphan relative of an eligible sponsor

Processing Time: Varies depending on individual cases

🔍 Visa Overview

The Subclass 837 – Orphan Relative Visa allows orphaned children to live permanently in Australia under the care of an Australian relative. This visa is specifically designed for children who are dependent on an Australian relative and are either outside Australia or already in the country on a temporary visa.

Permanent Residency: The Subclass 837 visa grants permanent residency, allowing the child to live in Australia indefinitely.

Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible, the child must be orphaned and have an Australian relative who is willing and able to provide long-term care.

Family Sponsorship: The child must be sponsored by a relative who is either an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

No Work Restrictions: The child has full work rights in Australia once the visa is granted.

Study Rights: The child can study in Australia without restrictions.

Why Choose the Subclass 837 – Orphan Relative Visa?

This visa offers several unique advantages for orphaned children and their Australian relatives, making it a beneficial option for family reunification and long-term stability.

Healthcare: Eligible for Medicare

Work & Study Rights: Full access

Permanent Residency: Direct path to PR

No Points Test: Simplified process

Reunite with Family: Under the care of an Australian relative

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

The child must be under 18 years old

The child must be an orphan |both parents deceased or unable to care for the child

The child must be sponsored by an eligible relative (an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen)

The child must be financially dependent on the sponsor

Health and character requirements must be met for both the child and sponsor

🔍 Application Process – Step by Step

Complete Application Form

Provide Supporting Documents

Submit Visa Application

Attend Health Check

Complete Character Check

Wait for Decision

Receive Visa Outcome

Common Mistakes ✅ Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to provide proof of the parent’s death or inability to care for the child

Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents

Missing health checks or police clearances

Tips for Strong Application

Double-check the relationship proof birth certificates, adoption papers

Ensure all health and character documents are up-to-date

Confirm the sponsor’s eligibility and ensure financial support documents are clear

Family Members You Can Include 🛤️ After Visa Grant

The Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa is designed for children, but other family members may be eligible for separate visa applications. Family members include:

Family Members You can Include

Siblings: Separate application required for each sibling.

Dependent Children: Can be included at any time before decision.

Health Requirement: Must be met by dependent children and non-migrating family members.

After visa Grant side will be this points

Permanent Residency: Live in Australia indefinitely.

Work Rights: Full work rights.

Study Rights: Full study rights.

Healthcare: Eligible for Medicare.

Family Reunification: Can apply to bring other eligible family members.

Required Documents What You’ll Need

Primary Applicant - Child

Passport Copy

Birth certificate (or adoption papers)

Death certificates for deceased parents (or evidence of abandonment)

Health check documents

Police clearance if applicable

Sponsor - Relative

Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency

Evidence of financial support

Completed sponsorship form - Form 40CH

Visa Fees & Processing Time

Type	Details & Fee (AUD)
🧾 Government Visa Fee	Approx. AUD 1,980
👥 Addtional Applicant 18+	AUD 900
👥 Addtional Applicant below 18	AUD 500

🧰 Tools & Downloads

Download Subclass 837 Complete Checklist

Download

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa?

🔍 A: The Subclass 837 visa is for orphaned children under the care of a relative in Australia. This visa allows them to live permanently in Australia.

Q: Can I sponsor my stepchild for this visa?

A: Yes, a stepchild can apply for the Subclass 837 visa if they are financially dependent on the sponsoring parent.

Q: Can the child apply for this visa if they are outside Australia?

A: Yes, the child can apply for the Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa from outside Australia.

Q: What happens after the Subclass 837 Orphan Relative Visa is granted?

A: Once granted, the child will be allowed to live permanently in Australia with the sponsor and have access to healthcare, work rights, and other social benefits.

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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.