Resident Return Visas

The subclass 155 is granted for five years and allows unlimited travel to and from Australia during that period. It is available to permanent residents and former citizens who:

• ✦Have been in Australia as a permanent resident for at least two years in the five years immediately before applying, or

Have a substantial business, cultural, employment, or personal tie to Australia that is of benefit to Australia, and there are compelling reasons to grant the RRV

The subclass 157 is a short-term RRV for permanent residents who cannot meet the residence requirements for the subclass 155. It allows the holder to return to Australia once within three months. It is available where there are compelling and compassionate circumstances that justify the person's absence from Australia.

Where the applicant does not meet the residence requirement, the Department will look at the strength and nature of their ties to Australia, including:

• ✦Family members in Australia (particularly Australian citizen children or spouse)

We assist permanent residents who have been absent from Australia and are unsure whether their re-entry right remains valid, or who need to apply for a new RRV before returning. Where compelling circumstances exist to support an application despite insufficient residence time, we prepare detailed submissions to the Department.