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If you're a former or current Australian permanent resident who’s been living overseas and your travel facility has expired, the Resident Return Visa 155 (RRV 155) is your way back to Australia. Whether you left Australia years ago or simply need to renew your travel rights, this visa allows you to re-enter Australia and maintain your permanent residency status.

In this article, we’ll break down what the RRV 155 visa requirements is, who is eligible, what documents you need, how long it takes, and why working with an experienced migration agent in Brisbane or elsewhere in Australia can make the process smoother.

What Is the Resident Return Visa 155?

The Resident Return Visa subclass 155 is designed for:

• Current or former Australian permanent residents, or

• Former Australian citizens who have lost or renounced citizenship

This visa allows eligible applicants to:

• Re-enter Australia as a permanent resident

• Renew their ability to travel in and out of Australia

• Retain their permanent resident status

The travel facility attached to a permanent visa typically lasts for 5 years. Once it expires, you can't return to Australia without a valid RRV.

Who Needs a Resident Return Visa?

You should apply for an RRV 155 if:

• Your initial 5-year travel facility has expired (or is about to expire)

• You’re currently outside Australia and want to return as a permanent resident

• You're in Australia but plan to travel and need to restore your travel rights

• You have spent significant time outside Australia and want to maintain your permanent residency status

Resident Return Visa 155 Requirements

To qualify for this visa, you need to meet certain residency and character requirements.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

• You must be a permanent resident or former permanent resident of Australia

• OR a former citizen who lost or renounced their citizenship

• You must have lived in Australia for at least 2 of the last 5 years as a permanent resident

• If not, you must provide compelling reasons for your absence and demonstrate ties to Australia (e.g., family, employment, ownership of property)

✅ Character Requirements

• You must meet the Department of Home Affairs’ character test

• You may need to provide police certificates from countries you've lived in

Key Features of the RRV 155

• Validity Period: Up to 5 years

• Multiple Entry: Allows travel in and out of Australia multiple times

• No Points Test: Unlike skilled visas, no points system is involved

• No Need for Sponsorship: You can apply on your own, without a sponsor

• Fast Processing: Some applications are processed within a few days, especially if applying online and meeting all conditions

What If You Don’t Meet the 2-Year Rule?

If you haven’t lived in Australia for at least 2 years in the last 5, you may still be granted a Resident Return Visa if you can show substantial ties to Australia. These ties can be:

• Business Ties: Owning or operating a business in Australia

• Employment Ties: Job offer or ongoing employment

• Family Ties: Close family members who are Australian citizens or residents

• Cultural or Community Ties: Religious or volunteer work, social contributions

In such cases, the visa may be granted for 1 year or less, depending on the strength of your ties.

Application Process for Resident Return Visa 155

Applying for an RRV is straightforward if you meet the criteria, but working with a migration consultant can increase your success rate and reduce delays.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Assess your time spent in Australia and determine if you meet the 2-year rule or must demonstrate substantial ties.

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Common documents include:

• Passport and visa grant notices

• Evidence of time spent in Australia (e.g., travel history, visa records)

• Proof of ties (e.g., job contracts, property documents, family details)

• Character documents if required

Step 3: Submit Application Online

You can apply through ImmiAccount. Most decisions are made electronically.

Step 4: Await a Decision

Processing times range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the case complexity and document accuracy.

Why Work with a Migration Agent for RRV 155?

Although many people manage their visa applications independently, hiring a professional can make the process far less stressful. Here’s how experienced migration agents in Brisbane or your city can help:

• Case Assessment: They help determine if you qualify and what evidence is needed

• Document Preparation: Agents ensure your paperwork is accurate and complete

• Handling Complex Cases: If you don’t meet the standard criteria, agents can strengthen your case with supporting documents

• Faster Processing: Well-prepared applications often move faster through the system

• Appeals Support: If your application is refused, your agent can assist with review or appeal through the AAT

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply for Resident Return Visa 155 from outside Australia?
Yes, as long as your permanent residency status is still valid or you’re eligible through ties to Australia.

Q: What if I lost my PR status?
You may still qualify if you can prove you were a former permanent resident and show strong ties to Australia.

Q: How long can I stay outside Australia once I get an RRV?
If granted a 5-year RRV, you can travel freely during that period. After it expires, you must reapply.

Q: Can I include family members in the same application?
No. Each applicant must apply for their own RRV separately.

Final Thoughts

The Resident Return Visa 155 is a vital tool for Australian permanent residents who want to maintain their residency and continue their journey in Australia. Whether you’ve been away for work, family, or other commitments, this visa ensures your connection to Australia stays intact.

If your visa has expired or you’re unsure about your eligibility, don’t leave it to chance. Reach out to a professional migration agent for Resident Return Visa 155 and make your return to Australia seamless and stress-free.