Orphan Relative (Subclass 117)
Australia has an immigration program dedicated to helping family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents to migrate and join them in Australia. This program provides a number of visa options to cater for family members of all types, including Orphan Relative Visas, which are available through subclass 117. This article explains what this visa is, who is eligible for it and the application process.
What is an Orphan Relative (Subclass 117) Visa?
The Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa is a permanent visa designed to help relatives of Australian citizens or permanent residents, who are at risk of being orphaned, to join their family in Australia. For example, if a parent has passed away or is seriously ill and is not likely to recover, the orphan relative visa may be available as a way for their relative to join them in Australia.
Who is eligible for an Orphan Relative (Subclass 117) Visa?
To be eligible for an Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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- Be the unmarried or married child under the age of 18 of the parent living in Australia.
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- Be financially dependent on the Australian citizen or permanent resident parent.
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- Be able to demonstrate that they have no other parent or guardian in their home country who can care for them.
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- Be related to the Australian citizen or permanent resident parent by birth.
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- Satisfy the health and character requirements for the visa.
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- Have a valid visa.
Applicants must also not be the subject of any removal orders in Australia.
What are the Benefits of an Orphan Relative (Subclass 117) Visa?
An Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa brings a variety of benefits to applicants, including:
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- Permanent residency in Australia.
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- The right to study and work without restriction.
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- Access to subsidised health care through Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
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- The right to apply for Australian citizenship after four years.
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- Access to the same social security benefits as other Australians.
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- The right to sponsor eligible family members to join them in Australia.
How Do I Apply For an Orphan Relative (Subclass 117) Visa?
The application process for an Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa is relatively straightforward, but it can be time-consuming. The following steps should be followed when applying for this visa:
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- Gather all the necessary documents and complete the application form.
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- Submit all the necessary documents in order to prove eligibility, including identity documents, evidence of the relationship with the Australian citizen/permanent resident parent and evidence of financial dependence.
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- Pay the application fee.
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- Wait for a decision from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.
Applicants should note that they may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.
FAQs About the Orphan Relative (Subclass 117) Visa
Q. Is this Visa Permanent?
Yes, the Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa is a permanent visa and you will be able to stay in Australia for as long as you wish.
Q. Can I work and study on this visa?
Yes, you will be able to work and study with no restrictions while you are in Australia on this visa.
Q. How long will it take to get a decision on my application?
The decision time for applications varies, but it can take up to six months or more.
Q. Can I bring family members with me to Australia?
Yes, you will be able to sponsor eligible family members to join you in Australia with this visa.
Conclusion
The Orphan Relative (subclass 117) visa is an excellent option for those who would like to bring a family member at risk of being orphaned to Australia. This visa provides a number of benefits, including permanent residency in Australia and access to the same social security benefits as other Australians. To apply for this visa, applicants must satisfy a number of criteria and be able to demonstrate eligibility by providing relevant documentation.
