Subclass 155 & Subclass 157
Resident Return Visa
Maintain or restore your Australian permanent residency travel rights and re-enter Australia with confidence.
Resident Return Visa (RRV)
A Resident Return Visa (RRV) allows current or former Australian permanent residents (and some former citizens) to re-enter Australia and maintain their permanent residency status.
This visa is for permanent residents whose travel facility has expired or is about to expire, and who wish to travel to and from Australia. RRVs ensure that permanent residents can maintain their connection to Australia while allowing the government to assess their ongoing ties to the country.
VISA OPTIONS
Available RRV Pathways
Resident Return Visa
Subclass 155
What it is:
The main RRV for current or former permanent residents.
Key Benefit:
Travel facility of up to 5 years (or shorter depending on eligibility).
Best for:
PR holders with substantial ties or residency history in Australia.
Read More →
Resident Return Visa
Subclass 157
What it is:
A short-term RRV for those who do not meet subclass 155 requirements.
Key Benefit:
Allows short-term travel (usually up to 3 months).
Best for:
Applicants needing to re-enter Australia to re-establish eligibility.
Read More →
IS THIS VISA RIGHT FOR YOU?
Who Can Apply
Basic Eligibility Profile
- Current or former Australian permanent resident
- Former Australian citizen who lost or renounced citizenship
- Have spent time in Australia or maintained strong ties
- Need to travel internationally and return to Australia
Common Applicant Types:
- PR holders living overseas
- Individuals with expired travel facilities
- Long-term residents returning to Australia
- Former citizens seeking to re-enter
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?
Basic Requirements
Core Requirements
- Hold or have held Australian permanent residency (or eligible former citizenship)
- Meet residence requirement or demonstrate substantial ties to Australia
- Show ongoing connection beneficial to Australia
- Meet character requirements
Supporting Documents (Examples)
- Passport and identity documents
- Evidence of time spent in Australia
- Proof of ties (employment, business, family, assets)
- Travel history
Special Conditions to Note
- 2-year residence in the last 5 years usually qualifies for a 5-year RRV
- If not met, strong ties to Australia must be demonstrated
- Subclass 157 is only available in limited circumstances
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS
How it Works
Step 1
check your residency status
Confirm your PR status and travel facility validity
Step 2
assess eligibility
Determine if you meet residence requirements or need to rely on ties
Step 3
prepare supporting evidence
Gather documents showing your connection to Australia
Step 4
Lodge your application
Submit your RRV application online
Step 5
Processing & Decision
Await outcome from the Department of Home Affairs
Time & Costs
Processing Timeframes
Processing times vary depending on application complexity and supporting evidence.
Government Fees
Visa application charges apply and may change periodically.
Additional Costs to Consider
Document preparation
Professional advice (if required)
GET IN TOUCH
Ready to start your migration journey?
Complete the form and our team will get in touch with you as soon as possible to assist with your enquiry. We’re here to provide clear guidance, answer your questions, and help you understand your options every step of the way. All initial consultations are completely obligation-free, giving you the confidence to explore your next steps with no pressure.