If you were previously an Australian permanent resident and have spent time outside Australia, a Resident Return Visa (RRV) can help you return to Australia while maintaining your permanent resident status. The RRV is designed for eligible permanent residents and former permanent residents who need a valid travel facility to return to Australia after extended periods overseas.
Whether you have been living overseas for work, family commitments or other personal reasons, an RRV may allow you to return to Australia and continue your life there without applying for a new permanent residency visa. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the Resident Return Visa, including eligibility requirements, application steps, required documents, processing considerations and key benefits.
Overview of Resident Return Visa Australia
The Resident Return Visa (RRV) is an Australian visa for eligible current or former permanent residents and certain former Australian citizens. It allows eligible applicants to return to Australia and, where applicable, maintain their permanent resident status.
An RRV does not grant a new permanent residency status. Instead, it provides a travel facility that allows an eligible permanent resident to travel to and return to Australia while maintaining their existing permanent residency.
The length of the travel facility depends on the applicant’s circumstances and whether they meet the relevant residence or substantial ties requirements.
Resident Return Visa Subclasses
There are two main Resident Return Visa subclasses:
Subclass 155
The Resident Return Visa Subclass 155 is generally issued to eligible Australian permanent residents and former permanent residents who meet the relevant residence or substantial ties requirements.
Eligible applicants may receive a travel facility of up to five years, depending on their circumstances. Applicants who have spent sufficient time in Australia during the relevant period may qualify based on their residence history, while those who have spent longer periods overseas may need to demonstrate substantial ties to Australia.
Subclass 157
The Resident Return Visa Subclass 157 is a limited travel facility available to certain applicants who do not meet the requirements for a Subclass 155 visa but satisfy the specific criteria for Subclass 157.
This visa generally provides a travel facility for up to three months. Because the eligibility requirements are specific, applicants should carefully assess their circumstances before applying.
Resident Return Visa Requirements (Eligibility)
To apply for an RRV, you generally need to be a current or former Australian permanent resident or an eligible former Australian citizen.
Your eligibility will depend on factors such as your Australian residency history, the amount of time you have spent in Australia and the strength of your connections with Australia.
Former Permanent Residents or Citizens
Eligible applicants may include Australian permanent residents or former permanent residents who have spent time overseas.
Certain former Australian citizens may also be eligible to apply for an RRV, depending on their circumstances and whether they satisfy the relevant requirements.
Residency Requirements
One of the key considerations for an RRV application is your residence in Australia.
Generally, you may qualify for a five-year Resident Return Visa if you have been present in Australia for at least two years during the five years immediately before applying.
If you have not met the required residence period, you may still be eligible in certain circumstances by demonstrating substantial ties to Australia and satisfying the relevant requirements.
Strong Ties to Australia
If you have spent significant time outside Australia, demonstrating substantial ties to Australia can be particularly important.
Depending on your circumstances, these ties may include:
- Family relationships in Australia
- Employment or business interests
- Property ownership
- Financial or professional connections
- Community or other significant connections with Australia
The strength and relevance of these ties will depend on your individual circumstances.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants may need to satisfy Australia’s health and character requirements.
Depending on the circumstances of the application, the Department of Home Affairs may request additional information, health examinations or character-related documents.
Previous RRV Refusal or Cancellation
A previous visa refusal or cancellation may be relevant when assessing a new RRV application. Each application is assessed according to the applicant’s individual circumstances and the requirements that apply at the time of application.
Understanding your eligibility before applying can help you prepare the appropriate evidence and avoid unnecessary delays.
Application Process
Applying for an RRV requires careful preparation and accurate supporting evidence. The general application process includes the following steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Begin by collecting the documents required to support your application. These may include identity documents, evidence of Australian residence and documents demonstrating your ties to Australia.
Step 2: Apply Online
An RRV application can generally be lodged online through the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs online system.
You will need to provide the requested information and upload your supporting documents electronically.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate information about your personal details, Australian residency history, travel history and connections with Australia.
Make sure that all information supplied in your application is complete, accurate and consistent with your supporting documents.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
After completing the application, you will need to pay the applicable visa application charge.
Visa fees can change, so applicants should check the current fee applicable to their application before lodging it.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once your application is complete and the applicable fee has been paid, submit the application.
You should retain the application and acknowledgment details for your records.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
After submission, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your application.
You may be asked to provide additional information or supporting documents if required. Processing times can vary depending on the circumstances of each application.
Resident Return Visa Australia Processing Time
RRV processing times can vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances, the completeness of the application and whether additional information is required.
Some applications may be processed relatively quickly, while others can take longer when additional assessment or supporting evidence is required.
Applicants should avoid making firm travel arrangements until they have confirmed that they have a valid visa and travel facility for their intended journey.
Rights and Benefits
An approved Resident Return Visa can provide important benefits to eligible Australian permanent residents who need to travel to and return to Australia.
Live, Work and Study in Australia
An RRV allows eligible permanent residents to return to Australia and continue living, working and studying there, subject to the conditions of their existing permanent residency status.
Maintain Permanent Resident Status
One of the key purposes of an RRV is to provide an eligible permanent resident with a valid travel facility to return to Australia after travelling overseas.
The RRV itself does not create a new permanent residency status. Instead, it supports eligible permanent residents in maintaining their ability to return to Australia as permanent residents.
Travel to and from Australia
An RRV provides a travel facility for the period specified on the visa.
The length of the travel facility can vary depending on the visa subclass and the applicant’s circumstances.
Pathway to Australian Citizenship
Holding an RRV may help eligible permanent residents continue their life in Australia and, if they later meet the separate requirements, potentially apply for Australian citizenship.
Citizenship eligibility is assessed separately and is not automatically granted through an RRV.
Access to Australian Services
Eligible permanent residents may have access to certain Australian government services and programs, subject to the relevant eligibility requirements.
Access to services such as Medicare or Centrelink is not automatically guaranteed simply because an RRV has been granted. Individual eligibility requirements may apply.
Own Property and Establish a Business
Eligible permanent residents can generally participate in Australia’s property and business environment, subject to applicable Australian laws and regulations.
Educational Opportunities for Family Members
Eligible family members may have access to Australia’s education system, depending on their individual visa status and the applicable state or territory rules.
Ability to Sponsor Eligible Family Members
Permanent residents may be able to sponsor eligible family members for certain Australian visas, provided they satisfy the relevant sponsorship and visa requirements.
Required Documents
Applicants may need to provide various documents to support their RRV application. The exact requirements depend on their individual circumstances.
Proof of Identity
- Passport or travel document
- Birth certificate, where applicable
- Evidence of Australian permanent residency or previous Australian visa status
- Other identity documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs
Evidence of Australian Residence
- Previous Australian visa records
- Evidence of time spent in Australia
- Travel records
- Employment records
- Australian tax records, where relevant
Proof of Strong Ties to Australia
Depending on the circumstances, applicants may provide:
- Employment records
- Business ownership documents
- Property ownership documents
- Family relationship documents
- Evidence of financial or professional connections
- Other documents demonstrating substantial ties to Australia
Health and Character Documents
Depending on the circumstances, applicants may be asked to provide:
- Medical examination results
- Police clearance certificates
- Other character-related documents requested by the Department
The documents required can vary from one applicant to another, so it is important to prepare evidence relevant to your individual circumstances.
Why Choose Us?
Navigating the Resident Return Visa process can be challenging, particularly for applicants who have spent an extended period outside Australia or have complex residency histories. That’s where the experienced visa consultants at Shanovia can assist you.
Personalised Visa Strategy
At Shanovia, we take a personalised approach to each application. We assess your residency history, Australian connections, family circumstances and future plans to help you understand the visa options available to you.
Application Support
Our team can assist with preparing your application, organising supporting documents and ensuring that the information provided is clear, accurate and consistent.
Support for Complex Cases
Applicants with long periods spent outside Australia or complicated residency circumstances may require careful preparation and strong supporting evidence. Our team can help you understand the requirements and prepare your application accordingly.
Comprehensive Immigration Assistance
Shanovia provides immigration assistance designed to support clients throughout their visa journey. From understanding eligibility requirements to preparing documentation and lodging an application, our team can guide you through the process.
Assistance After Visa Decisions
If your application faces complications or receives an unfavourable decision, our team can explain the available options and help you understand the appropriate next steps based on your circumstances.
Technology-Enabled Support
Our client-focused approach makes it easier to communicate with our team, receive updates and stay informed throughout your application process.
Understanding Your Circumstances
Every immigration situation is different. At Shanovia, we take the time to understand your circumstances and provide guidance based on your individual residency history, family situation and plans for Australia.
Ready to Return to Australia? Let Us Help You
Shanovia can guide you through the Resident Return Visa process and help you understand the requirements, documentation and application process.
If you are a former or current Australian permanent resident planning to return to Australia after spending time overseas, contact Shanovia today to discuss your circumstances and understand the options available to you.
