837 — Orphan Relative Visa

The Orphan Relative visa (subclass 837) is an Australian permanent visa for children under 18 who are single and whose parents are deceased, incapacitated, or cannot be found. The child must be onshore at lodgement and sponsored by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.

The visa grants permanent residence from the outset, with full rights to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. It is not renewable — it is itself a permanent grant. Dependent children may be included. The application fee is AUD 1,980.

This visa is ideal for orphaned or abandoned children already in Australia who have a qualifying relative able to sponsor their permanent settlement.