Resident Return Visa
Resident Return Visa (RRV) Overview
The Resident Return Visa (RRV) allows individuals who hold Australian permanent residency to retain their permanent resident status when returning to Australia after leaving. This visa is primarily for individuals whose permanent residency (PR) visa is expiring or has already expired.
There are two main types of RRVs:
- Visa 155: Typically valid for 5 years or 1 year.
- Visa 157: Typically valid for 3 months (issued under special circumstances).
RRV Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
- Visa 155 (5 years validity)
- Have lived in Australia for at least 2 years (730 days) in the past 5 years;
- If the 2-year residence requirement is not met, applicants must provide proof of strong ties to Australia (such as economic, cultural, family, or social connections).
- Visa 155 (1 year validity)
- Have lived in Australia for less than 2 years in the past 5 years but can prove strong ties to Australia.
- Visa 157 (3 months validity)
- Left Australia as a permanent resident or citizen;
- Have failed to meet the Visa 155 conditions due to special reasons;
- Must prove that the departure from Australia was due to uncontrollable circumstances or an emergency.
RRV Application Process
Submit Application Online
- Create an account via immiAccount and submit the application.
- Prepare Required Documents
Provide the following supporting documents based on the visa type:
- Passport and visa details;
- Proof of residence (e.g., rental contracts, utility bills);
- Proof of strong ties (e.g., family, work, social activities documents).
- Pay Application Fee
Visa fee: AU $485 (2024 standard).
- Wait for Processing Notification
Offshore applicants must keep their passport and contact details up to date to ensure they receive processing notifications.
Visa Approval
Once the application is approved, the visa will be linked to the applicant’s electronic passport, allowing free entry and exit from Australia.
RRV Processing Time
- Meet the 2-year residence requirement: The application is typically processed and approved within 1-2 days.
- Need to prove strong ties: Typically takes 2-8 weeks depending on the complexity of the supporting documents.
- Special Cases (Visa 157): Processing may take longer depending on the urgency of the case and the quality of supporting materials.
Important Notes
- Apply Early: It is recommended to apply for the RRV before the permanent residency visa expires to avoid disruption of status.
- Maintain Strong Ties: If living overseas for an extended period, maintain regular contact with Australia (e.g., investments, children’s education, family relationships).
- Avoid Visa Expiry: If the RRV application is denied, applicants may need to reapply for a permanent residency visa or seek an appeal (e.g., through AAT).
- The Resident Return Visa is a crucial tool for maintaining permanent resident status, especially for individuals who live abroad but still have strong ties to Australia.