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Resident Return Visa

Processing: 5-10 days (online applications are typically faster)Validity: Up to 5 years (or 12 months if residence requirement is not met)

Overview

The Resident Return Visa allows current or former Australian permanent residents and former citizens to return to Australia as permanent residents. This visa is for those whose travel validity on their permanent visa has expired or will expire while they are outside Australia.

Visa Subclasses

Subclass 155 - Resident Return Visa

For those who meet the residence requirement, granting a 5-year travel facility.

Subclass 157 - Resident Return Visa

For those who don't meet the residence requirement but have compelling reasons, granting a 12-month travel facility.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a current or former Australian permanent resident, or a former Australian citizen who lost or renounced citizenship
  • Have been in Australia as a permanent resident for at least 2 years in the last 5 years (or meet alternative criteria)
  • Meet character requirements
  • Have a compelling reason for absences if you don't meet the residence requirement

Application Process

  1. 1

    Check if your current permanent visa's travel facility is still valid

  2. 2

    Apply online via ImmiAccount before your travel facility expires or after it has expired

  3. 3

    Submit all required documents, including evidence of your time in Australia

  4. 4

    Wait for processing (you may be asked for additional information)

  5. 5

    Receive your Resident Return Visa, allowing you to return to Australia as a permanent resident

Required Documents

Valid passport
Proof of Australian permanent residency (e.g., visa grant notice, previous passport with visa label)
Evidence of time spent in Australia (e.g., travel records, utility bills, lease agreements)
Character documents (if requested)
Evidence of ties to Australia (e.g., employment, family, property ownership)
Statement of compelling reasons for absence (if applicable)

Frequently Asked Questions

who needs a resident return visa?

You need this visa if you're a permanent resident and your visa's travel facility has expired or will expire while you're outside Australia.

what happens if I don't apply for a resident return visa before leaving Australia?

If your travel facility expires while you're overseas, you won't be able to return to Australia as a permanent resident without applying for this visa.

how long do I need to stay in Australia to qualify for a 5-year visa?

You must have spent at least 2 years in Australia as a permanent resident in the last 5 years to qualify for a 5-year Subclass 155 visa.

can I apply for this visa if I've been absent for a long time?

Yes, but if you don't meet the residence requirement, you'll need to show compelling reasons for your absence to qualify for a Subclass 157 visa.

Visa Summary

Processing Time

5-10 days (online applications are typically faster)

Validity

Up to 5 years (or 12 months if residence requirement is not met)

Application Fee

Visa Fee Estimator

Visa Assessment

Not sure if you're eligible for this visa? Take our visa assessment to find out your options and chances of success.

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