Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155) | Return to Australia as a Permanent Resident
The Resident Return Visa (RRV) (Subclass 155) allows former or current Australian permanent residents and citizens to return to Australia and live as permanent residents.
Key Highlights
- You can apply for this visa while either in Australia or overseas.
- It permits you to live, work, and study in Australia.
- This visa grants permanent residency with a travel facility valid for up to 5 years.
Eligibility Requirements
- You must be an Australian permanent resident, a former permanent resident, or an Australian citizen who has lost or renounced citizenship.
- You must meet the residency requirement, meaning you have lawfully lived in Australia for at least 2 years in the last 5 years as a permanent resident or citizen.
- If you don’t meet the standard residency requirement, you may still qualify if you have significant business, cultural, employment, or personal ties to Australia that benefit the country.
- For offshore applicants, you generally must not have been absent from Australia for a continuous period of 5 years or more before applying unless there are compelling reasons. You must have held a permanent visa or been an Australian citizen at the time of your last departure.
- For onshore applicants, you must not have been absent from Australia for a continuous period of 5 years or more since your most recent permanent visa grant or since losing citizenship unless there are compelling reasons.
- Eligible family members of the main applicant may also apply as part of the visa.
- Applicants must meet public interest criteria, and offshore applicants must satisfy special return criteria.
Application Process for Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155)
Check Your Eligibility
Review the residency and eligibility criteria, including residency period, ties to Australia, and family member inclusion.
Gather Required Documents
Prepare proof of permanent residency or citizenship, evidence of ties to Australia, identity documents, and any supporting documents for compelling circumstances if applicable.
Lodge Your Application
- Online: Most applicants can submit via the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount.
- Paper Application: In some cases, paper forms may be accepted.
Pay the Visa Fee
Ensure you pay the correct application fee to avoid delays in processing.
Provide Biometrics (If Required)
Some applicants may need to submit fingerprints or photographs at a local visa application center.
Await Decision
Processing times vary depending on whether you apply onshore or offshore and individual circumstances.
Visa Grant & Travel Facility
Once granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, with a travel facility valid for up to 5 years.
Why Choose Apical Immigration Experts
Apical Immigration Experts provide complete guidance for the Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155), ensuring accurate eligibility assessment, smooth documentation, and professional support throughout. With our expertise, your return to Australia becomes seamless, reliable, and stress-free.
- Expert Guidance: Navigate complex visa applications, including Subclass 155, with professional support.
- Personalized Strategies: Receive tailored advice based on your residency status, family situation, and ties to Australia.
- Up-to-Date Knowledge: Stay informed about the latest immigration rules, eligibility requirements, and policy updates.
- Proven Track Record: Successfully assisting clients in obtaining permanent residency, work visas, and return visas.
- Hassle-Free Process: From documentation to submission, we manage the entire process efficiently.
- Client-Focused Approach: We prioritize your goals and ensure clear communication at every step.
FAQs – Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155)
1. What is a Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155)?
The Subclass 155 visa allows former or current Australian permanent residents and citizens to return to Australia and live as permanent residents. It also provides a travel facility valid for up to 5 years.
2. Who is eligible for a Subclass 155 visa?
Eligibility includes Australian permanent residents, former permanent residents, or Australian citizens who lost or renounced citizenship. Applicants must generally meet the residency requirement or demonstrate strong ties to Australia.
3. Can I apply for the Resident Return Visa while outside Australia?
Yes, you can apply from either onshore (inside Australia) or offshore (outside Australia). Offshore applicants may need to meet special return criteria depending on their absence period.
4. How long does it take to process a Subclass 155 visa?
Processing times vary based on individual circumstances and application location, but most applications are processed within a few weeks to a few months.
5. Can my family members be included in the Subclass 155 visa application?
Yes, eligible family members of the main applicant can also apply as part of the Subclass 155 visa application.