Resident Return Visas for Australia

A Resident Return Visa (RRV) allows Australian permanent residents and former permanent residents to maintain or regain the ability to travel internationally and return to Australia as a permanent resident.

  • Subclass 155 Resident Return visa
  • Subclass 157 Resident Return visa

Whic Resident Return visa you qualify for will vary depending on how long you resided in Australia.


If you have been residing in Australia for 2 out of the last 5 years

  • You qualify for a 5-year RRV (Subclass 155).
  • This is the simplest pathway for an RRV as no additional ties or compelling reasons need to be demonstrated.

If you have not been residing in Australia for 2 out of the last 5 years, and have been outside of Australia for up to 5 years

  • You may still qualify for an RRV, but you’ll need to demonstrate substantial ties to Australia that are beneficial to the country.
  • If these ties exist, you may receive an RRV valid for 1 year.

If you have been out of Australia for any length of time longer than 5 years

  • You need to demonstrate compelling reasons for your absence.
  • Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.