If you are a permanent resident of Australia and your travel facility is about to expire, applying for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) is essential to maintain your status. This visa allows you to re-enter Australia after traveling abroad. Discover the steps to apply, eligibility requirements, and the importance of keeping your RRV up-to-date.
What Is a Resident Return Visa?
The Resident Return Visa (subclass 155 & 157) allows Australian permanent residents to leave and re-enter the country. Unlike other visas, it focuses specifically on maintaining your permanent resident status while traveling overseas.
Key Benefits of the Resident Return Visa
- Re-Entry Rights: Maintain your permanent resident status when traveling outside Australia.
- 5-Year Visa: For those meeting specific residency requirements, the visa can be granted for up to five years.
- Short-Term Visa: A 1-year RRV may be available if you don’t meet residency requirements but still have ties to Australia.
Eligibility Criteria for a Resident Return Visa
To be eligible for the Resident Return Visa, you must:
- Be a Permanent Resident: Only individuals with permanent residency status or former citizens are eligible.
- Meet Residency Requirements: Typically, applicants must have lived in Australia for at least two out of the last five years.
- Strong Ties to Australia: If you don’t meet the residency requirement, you may still qualify based on your personal, business, or cultural ties to the country.
Also Read: 190 Visa Application Cost: A Complete Guide
RRV Requirements and Visa Type
| Eligibility | Visa Type | Travel Facility Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lived in Australia 2 out of 5 years | Subclass 155 | 5 Years |
| Ties to Australia, No Residency | Subclass 155 | 1 Year |
| Short-Term Travel Purpose | Subclass 157 | 3 Months |
Also Read: New South Wales 190 Visa
How to Apply for the Resident Return Visa
- Step 1: Gather required documents, including proof of residency and evidence of ties to Australia.
- Step 2: Lodge your application online through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
- Step 3: Pay the applicable visa fee and submit your application.
- Step 4: Wait for the Department to process your application.
Also read: How to Apply for Australia Skilled Regional Visas
Resident Return Visa Processing Times
| Visa Type | 75% of Applications Processed | 90% of Applications Processed |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 155 | 2 weeks | 3 weeks |
| Subclass 157 | 1 week | 2 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if my RRV expires while I’m overseas?
If your RRV expires, you will need to apply for a new one before returning to Australia. If necessary, you can apply for a Bridging Visa to cover your return.
2. Can I apply for an RRV if I haven’t lived in Australia recently?
Yes, you may qualify if you have substantial personal or business ties to Australia.
3. How long does it take to process a Resident Return Visa?
Processing times vary, but most applications are processed within 2 to 3 weeks.
My New Australian Life – Get expert assistance for your Resident Return Visa application. Our experienced team, led by Carmine Mercorella, is here to guide you through the visa process, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome. Contact us today to get started.
