Applying for Australian Resident Return Visa Subclasses 155 and 157

resident return visa

Did you know that as an Australian permanent resident, you may need a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to maintain your ability to re-enter Australia after travelling overseas? 

While your permanent residency status is indefinite, your visa’s travel facility has an expiration date. If you plan to travel internationally after this facility expires, you’ll need an RRV to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident. A RRV is a special visa that allows Australian Permanent Residents (PRs) to travel outside of Australia and return without losing their PR status. If you’re thinking about travelling but aren’t sure which visa you need, understanding the RRV process can help you avoid costly mistakes. 

Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

Who Needs a Resident Return Visa (RRV)?

Here’s a quick guide to help you understand who needs an RRV to return to Australia:

1. An Australian Permanent Resident Planning to Travel

If you’re a permanent resident and you plan to travel overseas, you’ll need an RRV to return to Australia if your visa’s travel facility has expired.

2. Former Permanent Residents or Australian Citizens

If you used to be a permanent resident or an Australian citizen but no longer hold that status, you may still be able to apply for an RRV to come back to Australia.

3. Permanent Residents Already in Australia

If you’re already in Australia and don’t plan to travel, you don’t need an RRV to stay. Your permanent residency rights stay intact as long as you don’t leave the country.

If you’re planning to travel or have had changes in your residency status, make sure to apply for the RRV on time. Now, let’s explore the two types of Resident Return Visas available, each with different eligibility requirements, to ensure you can return to Australia without any issues.

Types of Resident Return Visa (RRV)

There are two main types of RRV: Subclass 155 and Subclass 157. Each has specific eligibility criteria, and knowing which one applies to you is important to ensuring a smooth application process.

Subclass 155: The Standard RRV for Most PRs

Subclass 155 is the most common type of RRV and is usually the one you’ll apply for if you meet certain requirements. The key thing to know about this visa is that it’s for people who have lived in Australia for a certain amount of time.

  • Eligibility

To apply for the Subclass 155, you need to have lived in Australia for at least 730 days (2 years) in the last 5 years. This proves that you have strong ties to Australia.

  • Validity Period

If you meet this requirement, you can get a five-year RRV. This means you can travel in and out of Australia for five years without losing your PR status. If you don’t meet the full residency requirement, you may still qualify for a one-year RRV, but you’ll need to show that you have strong connections to Australia, such as family, work, or business.

Subclass 157: The Short-Term RRV for Those Who Don’t Meet the Requirements for Subclass 155

If you don’t meet the residency requirement for Subclass 155, you can apply for Subclass 157, which is a short-term RRV. This is a good option if you haven’t lived in Australia long enough or need to travel for a short period.

  • Eligibility

To get this visa, you need to have been in Australia for at least one day in the last five years. You also need to show a good reason for being away from Australia for a long time (like family or work obligations).

  • Validity Period

The Subclass 157 is usually given for only three months. This is much shorter than the one-year or five-year options with Subclass 155.

What Happens to Your PR Status?

No matter which RRV you apply for—whether it’s Subclass 155 or Subclass 157—your Permanent Resident (PR) status stays intact. The RRV is simply a visa that allows you to travel in and out of Australia, but it doesn’t change your PR status.

For both visas, you’ll retain your PR status as long as you apply for the RRV before your current visa expires.

Understanding these two subclasses will help you determine which one fits your needs and avoid any confusion during the application process. 

Now, let’s explore the eligibility criteria for both visas.

Eligibility Criteria for the Resident Return Visa (RRV)

To apply for an RRV, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements vary depending on your current residency status and the subclass of RRV you’re applying for.

1. Who Can Apply?

  • Current Australian Permanent Residents

  • Former Australian Citizens

  • Former Permanent Residents

2. Character Requirement:

You must meet the character requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.

3. Valid Passport Requirement:

You must hold a valid passport at the time of application to qualify for an RRV.

4. Uncancelled Visa or Citizenship:

Your last permanent resident visa must not have been cancelled, and you must not have renounced or lost your Australian citizenship.

5. Meet the Residency or Alternative Ties Requirement:

  • Subclass 155: You must have lived in Australia for at least 730 days (2 years) in the last 5 years or demonstrate strong ties (e.g., family, work, or business).
  • Subclass 157: You need to have been in Australia for at least one day in the last 5 years and provide a valid reason for your absence.

Now that you know the basics, let’s get into the application process of RRV.

How to Apply for the Resident Return Visa (RRV)

Applying for an RRV is a straightforward process, but it’s important to stay organized and follow the right steps.

1. Online Application

The quickest and easiest way to apply for your RRV is through the ImmiAccount. You can complete your application online and submit all the necessary documents.

2. Processing Time and Cost

On average, it takes about 5 to 10 working days to process your RRV application. However, it may take longer if you don’t meet the full eligibility criteria. The application cost for RRV is AUD 475.00 per applicant if you apply online (you must apply online unless authorised to submit a paper application).

3. Onshore Applications

If you’re currently in Australia, applying onshore can offer you more flexibility, especially if you need to prove your ties to the country or if you’re in a situation where your application might be delayed.

4. Documentation

Make sure you provide all the necessary documents, including proof of your stay in Australia, evidence of your ties to the country, and reasons for travel. Missing documentation can delay your application.

5. Plan Ahead

It’s highly recommended to apply for your RRV two weeks before your current visa expires to avoid any travel disruptions.

If you’re feeling unsure about the process or the required documentation, Knowbal is here to help you navigate through the application and ensure that everything is in order.

Benefits of the Resident Return Visa (RRV)

When you hold a Resident Return Visa (RRV), you’re getting permission to return to Australia and gaining several key rights and benefits that come with being a Permanent Resident (PR). Here’s what you can expect:

1. Work and Study Rights

With the RRV, you’re free to work and study anywhere in Australia. Whether you’re looking to advance your career or pursue further education, the RRV lets you do so without any restrictions.

2. Access to Medicare

As a RRV holder, you’re eligible for Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system. This gives you access to essential health services, such as doctor visits, hospital care, and more—often at little to no cost.

3. Sponsorship of Family Members

Another benefit of holding an RRV is the ability to sponsor eligible relatives for Permanent Residency. If you have family members who meet the requirements, you can help them join you in Australia and enjoy the same PR benefits.

4. Ability to Travel

The RRV gives you the freedom to travel outside Australia and return without losing your PR status. As long as your visa is valid, you can leave and re-enter the country without hassle.

5. Apply for Citizenship

If you meet the eligibility criteria, holding an RRV is a step towards becoming an Australian citizen.

Holding a Resident Return Visa (RRV) gives you more than just the ability to return to Australia, it helps you keep your rights as a Permanent Resident, including the right to work, access healthcare, sponsor family members, and even apply for citizenship if eligible.

Final Thoughts

Travelling as an Australian Permanent Resident is easy when you have the right visa in place. The Resident Return Visa (RRV) is essential for maintaining your PR status while travelling abroad. Whether you’re applying for the Subclass 155 or Subclass 157, understanding the requirements and knowing when to apply will ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

Remember, always apply for your RRV well ahead of time, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. If you need expert assistance, Knowbal can guide you through the process and help make sure your RRV application is handled efficiently.

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