A Resident Return Visa (RRV) is a visa that allows Australian permanent residents to travel in and out of Australia. It is essential for permanent residents who want to maintain their permanent resident status while outside Australia. This visa is also used by former Australian permanent residents who wish to return to Australia.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Resident Return Visa, including who is eligible, how to apply, the benefits of the visa, and more.
What is a Resident Return Visa in Australia?
A Resident Return Visa (RRV) is a type of visa that allows individuals to re-enter Australia after traveling overseas. As an Australian permanent resident, you must hold a valid visa if you want to return to the country after leaving. The RRV helps you maintain your permanent resident status and re-enter Australia without any issues.
This visa is also necessary for former Australian permanent residents who may have lost their status due to living outside Australia for too long. With an RRV, they can regain their status and return to live in Australia.
Who Needs a Resident Return Visa?
A Resident Return Visa is generally required by people who:
Hold permanent residency: If you are a permanent resident of Australia and wish to travel internationally, you need an RRV to return to the country.
Have lost permanent residency: If you were once an Australian permanent resident but no longer have a valid visa or have been outside Australia for too long, you may need an RRV to regain your permanent resident status.
Are planning to live in Australia: If you are a former resident who wishes to return to Australia and live there again, you will need a Resident Return Visa.
Permanent residents of Australia who are overseas but still hold a valid RRV are able to enter Australia at any time without the need for a new visa.
Types of Resident Return Visas
There are two main types of Resident Return Visas:
1. Subclass 155 Resident Return Visa
The Subclass 155 RRV is the most common type of Resident Return Visa. It is for permanent residents who have lived in Australia for a significant amount of time and wish to travel outside of Australia for a period of time but still want to retain their permanent residency status.
With a Subclass 155 RRV, you can travel in and out of Australia multiple times during the visa’s validity. The visa is usually granted for up to five years, but it can be shorter depending on your situation.
2. Subclass 157 Resident Return Visa
The Subclass 157 RRV is for people who were Australian permanent residents at some point in the past but have lost their status by staying outside Australia for an extended period. This visa allows them to regain their permanent resident status and return to Australia.
This visa is usually granted for up to one year. It is only available to individuals who have been outside Australia for a long time and who can prove that they have significant ties to Australia, such as family or employment.
Eligibility for a Resident Return Visa
To be eligible for a Resident Return Visa, you must meet certain requirements. These requirements differ slightly depending on the type of visa you are applying for.
Subclass 155 Resident Return Visa
You may be eligible for the Subclass 155 Resident Return Visa if you meet the following criteria:
You are a current Australian permanent resident.
You have lived in Australia for at least two years during the last five years. This means that in the five years before you apply for the visa, you need to have spent at least two years in Australia as a permanent resident.
You have close ties to Australia. This includes having Australian citizen family members or a job in Australia.
You are in Australia or overseas when applying.
Subclass 157 Resident Return Visa
You may be eligible for the Subclass 157 Resident Return Visa if you meet the following criteria:
You were once an Australian permanent resident but lost your permanent residency status.
You have stayed outside of Australia for more than five years without returning or applying for a Resident Return Visa.
You have close ties to Australia. This may include having family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, or holding a job or property in Australia.
You can demonstrate substantial involvement in the Australian community.
How to Apply for a Resident Return Visa
The process for applying for a Resident Return Visa is fairly straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. You can apply for the visa online or on paper. Here are the basic steps involved in applying for an RRV:
1. Gather Required Documents
Before you begin your application, you will need to gather several documents to submit with your application. These may include:
- Your passport
- Proof of your permanent resident status
- Evidence of your time spent in Australia (if applying for a Subclass 155 visa)
- Documents showing your ties to Australia, such as family connections, employment, or property ownership
2. Complete the Application
Once you have your documents in order, you can complete the application form online. You will need to create an account on the Australian immigration website and follow the instructions to submit your application. The form will ask for information about your identity, your travel history, and your ties to Australia.
3. Pay the Visa Fee
There is a fee for applying for the Resident Return Visa. The fee varies depending on which type of visa you are applying for. The Subclass 155 visa generally has a higher fee than the Subclass 157 visa. You will need to pay the fee when you submit your application.
4. Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed. The processing time for a Resident Return Visa can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks to a few months.
5. Receive Your Visa
If your application is successful, you will receive your Resident Return Visa. The visa will allow you to travel in and out of Australia for the specified duration, as long as your permanent residency status is maintained.
Benefits of a Resident Return Visa
The Resident Return Visa offers several benefits to holders. Some of the key benefits include:
Ability to travel freely: The RRV allows you to travel in and out of Australia as needed, while still maintaining your permanent resident status.
Re-entry to Australia: If you lose your permanent resident status while living outside of Australia, the RRV allows you to return and regain your status.
Maintaining ties to Australia: With the RRV, you can keep your connections to Australia, even if you are temporarily living abroad.
Access to Australian services: As a permanent resident, you can access Australian healthcare, education, and other benefits.
How Long Does a Resident Return Visa Last?
The length of time a Resident Return Visa is valid depends on the type of visa and your situation:
Subclass 155: This visa is typically granted for five years, but the duration may be shorter depending on the applicant’s history in Australia and their ties to the country.
Subclass 157: This visa is typically granted for up to one year and is available for people who have lost their permanent resident status and wish to regain it.
Conclusion
The Resident Return Visa is an essential visa for Australian permanent residents who want to travel overseas and return to Australia while maintaining their permanent residency status. It is also helpful for former permanent residents who wish to regain their status and return to live in Australia.
The process of applying for an RRV is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to the eligibility criteria and documentation. Once granted, the visa provides many benefits, including the ability to travel freely and maintain ties to Australia.
If you are an Australian permanent resident or a former permanent resident, the Resident Return Visa is an important option for you to consider when planning international travel or returning to Australia.
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