So, you were once a permanent resident or citizen of Australia but have been living outside for a long time? And now you’re ready to come back, even if it’s just for a short visit or to sort things out?
The Three-Month Resident Return Visa (Subclass 157) is just what you need. It provides you with the opportunity to return to Australia for up to three months, even if your previous travel rights have expired.
Let’s understand it without any stress or chaos.
🧳 What Exactly Is This Visa?
Please consider the Subclass 157 as a short-term return ticket to Australia for individuals who once called it home.
It’s perfect if:
- You were a permanent resident or citizen in the past
- You have been away for a while
- Your travel facility has expired (meaning you can’t just fly back in)
- You want to pop back for a few months—maybe to see family or get ready for a longer visa
✅ Can I Apply? Here’s the Quick Checklist:
You can apply if:
✔ You were a permanent resident or Aussie citizen
✔ You’ve spent at least one day in Australia in the last 5 years
✔ You have a pretty good reason for being away (like work, family issues, health stuff)
✔ You still have some connection to Australia—like family here, a house, a job, or even a bank account
🔍 What They’re Looking For (Selection Criteria)
The government check for a few things, whether you are worth this visa or not:
| They’ll Check | What That Means for You |
|---|---|
| Time spent in Australia | Even 1 day counts—yes, seriously! |
| Your reason for being away | You’ll need to explain why you didn’t return sooner |
| Your Aussie ties | Show you’re still connected—family, property, bank, job |
| Good character | They want to make sure you’re not a threat |
| That you wish to return | Make it clear you’re serious about coming back |
🪜 How to Apply – Step-by-Step
Here’s how it goes:
1. Get Your Documents Together
Grab all the papers that prove who you are, your past time in Australia, why you’ve been away, and what still connects you to Oz.
2. Log in to ImmiAccount
Go to immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and either sign in or make a new account.
3. Fill Out the Application
Select the Resident Return Visa (RRV) and ensure you’re applying for the Subclass 157.
4. Upload Your Stuff
Scan and upload your documents—keep them neat and clear.
5. Pay the Fee
It’s AUD 465. Payment is done online.
6. Sit Back and Wait
You should hear back within 2 to 4 weeks, although you may receive a response sooner.
📎 What Documents Do I Need?
Here’s your chill checklist:
- ✅ Passport (the one you’ll travel with)
- ✅ Old visa or proof you were a resident/citizen
- ✅ Any records that show you’ve been in Australia before (entry stamps, flight history)
- ✅ A short letter explaining why you stayed away
- ✅ Proof that you’re still connected to Australia (e.g., Aussie bank account, family, house)
- ✅ Police check (only if they ask)
💸 How Much & How Long?
| What You’re Paying For | How Much (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | $465 |
| Extra applicants | Depends on age |
Processing Time?
Typically 2–4 weeks, but the timeframe may be extended if additional information is needed.
💼 Do I Need to Show Money in My Account?
Not really. There’s no official “show me your funds” rule here.
However, it helps to demonstrate financial stability, especially if you want to prove that you’ve remained connected to Australia (such as continuing to use your Australian bank account).
🎁 What’s Good About This Visa?
Here’s the upside:
✔ You get to come back to Australia
✔ You stay a full 3 months
✔ You can apply for a longer visa while you’re here
✔ You don’t need to meet any points test or age limits
✔ Great for quick visits or sorting things out
🚫 What’s Not So Great?
Just so you’re clear:
✘ Only valid for 3 months
✘ Single entry – no in-and-out travel
✘ Not for long-term stays
✘ Won’t extend your permanent residency travel facility automatically
✘ Doesn’t lead to citizenship by itself
🌐 Where to Apply or Ask Questions
Here’s the official stuff:
- 🔗 Apply here: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
- 📄 More info: Subclass 157 Visa Page
- 🌐 To get help from a trusted Immigration Consultancy Services, connect with: Visas Adviser
- 📞 Contact Details: +91 8744852222; info@VisasAdviser.com
📄 How to Format Your Documents
🗂️ Use PDFs or JPGs
📷 Make sure scans are clear and complete
✍️ Sample Letter Explaining Your Absence:
Name: xxx
Date of Birth: xx xxx xxxx
“I left Australia in [year] as [reason]. I planned to return in [year], but [reason for not able to return]. I’ve kept my house in Sydney, and my son is still studying in Australia. I want to return and stay connected to my life there.”
Signature
Date
❓ Your Quick FAQ
Can I apply while I’m outside Australia?
✔️ Yes, that’s precisely who it’s for!
Can I work while I’m there?
✔️ If your PR status is still valid, you are eligible to work.
Can I travel in and out during those 3 months?
❌ Nope. It’s a single entry only.
Can I apply again if I need more time?
Only if you still meet the criteria and have a good reason.
What if I want to stay longer?
Apply for a Subclass 155 (the long-term return visa) once you’re back.
🤓 Pro Tips Before You Hit “Submit”
📌 Write a clear story – Keep your explanation simple and honest
🏠 Show your Aussie ties – Family, house, job, anything helps
🕐 Don’t delay – Apply as soon as you know you want to return
👨⚖️ Not sure what to do? – A registered migration agent can help
🧡 Final Words
The Subclass 157 visa is a short-term visa that allows individuals to return to Australia after a prolonged absence, providing a convenient means for those who still consider Australia their home. It’s a perfect chance to visit again for family plans, meet-ups, and to reconnect with everything.