So, you’re a permanent resident of Australia, but your travel rights are about to expire—or already have?
Don’t stress! The Resident Return Visa (RRV) is here to help you come back to Australia without losing your permanent resident (PR) status. Let’s walk you through it step by step in the simplest way possible.
🌏 What’s the RRV and Why Do You Need It?
Here’s the deal:
- Your permanent residency doesn’t expire
- BUT… your travel rights do, usually after 5 years
- Without valid travel rights, you can’t come back to Australia if you leave
That’s where the RRV (Subclass 155) comes in! It restores your ability to travel in and out of Australia while maintaining your permanent resident (PR) status.
Comparison of Resident Return Visa (RRV) with other Visas
✅ Who Can Apply?
You can apply for a 5-year RRV if:
✔️ You’re a current or former permanent resident or a former Australian citizen
✔️ You’ve lived in Australia for at least 2 years in the past 5 years
✔️ You want to live in Australia again (or keep close ties here)
✔️ You meet basic character checks (no major legal issues)
👉 Even if you haven’t lived in Australia for 2 years, you might still get a 1-year or 3-month RRV if you have strong personal, work or family ties to Australia.
🧠 How Do They Decide If You Get the 5-Year Version?
It’s based on:
🕒 Time in Australia – 2+ years is ideal
🏠 Ties to Australia – job, family, business, property
📄 Your reason for staying away – like health, work, or family matters
🧳 Your plan to return – you are required to provide proof that you intend to reside in Australia.
🪜 How to Apply – Step by Step
Let’s keep it super easy:
1️⃣ Get Your Documents Ready
Gather your passport, travel history, and proof you’ve lived or have connections in Australia.
2️⃣ Log in to ImmiAccount
Go to immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and sign in or create an account.
3️⃣ Fill Out the Online Application
Select the Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155) and complete the application form.
4️⃣ Pay the Visa Fee
Pay AUD 475 using your card online.
5️⃣ Submit and Wait
That’s it! Wait for the visa decision via email. Some are super quick, others take a few weeks.
📄 What Documents Do You Need?
Here’s a quick list:
✅ passport – current and old, if needed
✅ Travel records – show when you’ve been in or out of Australia
✅ proof you lived in Australia – utility bills, rental agreements, bank statements
✅ proof of ties – job offers, family letters, business records, tax returns
✅ Character documents – police checks if requested
💰 Fees & How Long It Takes
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | AUD 475 |
| Processing time | 1 day to 40 days (depending) |
| Fast approval? | Yes, in urgent cases – explain why |
💼 Do You Need a Certain Amount of Money?
Nope!
There is no minimum bank balance or funding requirement for this visa.
However, if you’re showcasing business or work ties to Australia, you should include financial proof, such as pay slips or tax returns.
✅ What Are the Benefits?
Here’s why the RRV is a great option:
🌏 Travel freely for another 5 years
🛬 Keep your permanent residency
⚡ Quick and easy online application
🛤 Continue your journey to Australian citizenship
👨👩👧👦 Reconnect with your family or life in Australia
⚠️ What Are the Limitations?
Just so you’re aware:
- It’s only for travel rights, not extending PR
- You might get a 1-year or 3-month visa if you haven’t been in Australia much
- If you’ve lost PR, you can’t apply
- They can reject your visa if you don’t pass the character checks
🔗 Where to Apply and Get Help
| What You Need | Link or Info |
|---|---|
| Main Visa Website | immi.homeaffairs.gov.au |
| Visa Application | Log in to ImmiAccount |
| Connect with Trusted Immigration Consultant | Visas Adviser |
| For more queries or guidance | +91 8744852222; info@VisasAdviser.com |
🧾 Sample Document Templates
✉️ Job Proof (Work Letter)
🏠 Family Support Letter
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply from overseas?
✅ Yes, totally fine!
Q: What if I haven’t lived in Australia for 2 years?
✅ You might still be eligible for a 1-year or 3-month visa if you can demonstrate ties.
Q: Can I apply again later for another RRV?
✅ Yes. You can reapply at any time if your situation improves.
Q: Do I need to visit Australia every year?
✅ It’s not required, but visiting helps maintain a strong connection for future renewals.
💡 Expert Tips
✔️ Don’t wait too long – Apply before your travel rights expire
✔️ Save your paperwork – Keep proof of your time in Australia
✔️ Explain your situation – Be honest and transparent in your application
✔️ Ask for help – If you’re not sure, talk to a registered migration agent
✔️ Apply online—it’s fast and easy
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Five-Year Resident Return Visa (RRV) is an excellent way to maintain your connection to Australia, especially if you’re living overseas or planning to travel but still wish to retain your permanent residency.
Whether you’ve been away for a while or need to renew your travel rights, the RRV makes it easy to return home when you’re ready.
✅ If you’ve lived in Australia for 2+ years in the last 5, you’re likely to get 5 years again.
✅ If not, don’t worry – you might still be eligible for 1 year or even 3 months if you have good reasons and strong ties.
Remember: Apply early, keep your documents ready, and consistently demonstrate your genuine intention to return to or stay connected with Australia.
Need help? Visit the official immigration site or talk to a Trusted Immigration Consultant Services: Visas Abroad.
Contact No.: +91 8744852245; Mail id: info@VisasAdviser.com
Australia will always welcome you back—make sure you’ve got the correct visa to walk through that door.