On this page
- What This Visa Covers — Australia resident return visa
- Who Can Apply
- How to Apply Step by Step
- Document Checklist
- Cost and Timeline
- What You Can and Cannot Do — RRV 155
- How Your Application Is Assessed
- Avoid These Errors
- When to Consult a Professional
- Fees
- Required forms
- Related visa types
- Related guides
- Related goals
- Next steps
What This Visa Covers — Australia resident return visa
#This visa lets you keep or regain your ability to travel to and re-enter Australia as a permanent resident. It protects your permanent status when you’ve been outside Australia and need a valid travel facility.
Who this is for
You can apply if you fit one of these categories:
- Australian permanent resident
- Former Australian permanent resident whose last permanent visa wasn’t cancelled
- Former Australian citizen who lost or renounced citizenship
You need to apply for and get this visa before you arrive in Australia if you want to return as a permanent resident.
This visa often comes up for people who originally became permanent residents through:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801)
- Parent Visa (subclass 103)
- Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
If you held one of these permanent visas and your travel facility expired while you were overseas, you’ll need the Resident Return Visa to re-enter as a permanent resident.
Home Affairs looks at your eligibility based on your current or former permanent resident or former citizen status.
What the visa permits
The Resident Return Visa (subclass 155/157) allows you to:
- Travel to Australia as a permanent resident
- Maintain or resume your permanent residency status
- Hold a valid travel facility for a set period
This visa doesn’t grant new permanent residency; it confirms or supports an existing or previous permanent status.
Travel facility validity:
| Visa outcome | Travel facility validity |
|---|---|
| Subclass 155 | Up to 5 years |
| Subclass 157 | Up to 1 year |
You must already hold this visa before you travel if your previous travel facility expired and you’re outside Australia. The Department of Home Affairs processes the application. Australian Border Force deals with your entry at the border.
Key context
Australian permanent residency itself doesn’t expire, but your travel facility does. Without a valid Resident Return Visa, you may not be able to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident after travel.
Home Affairs uses this visa to decide whether you can keep your permanent resident travel rights. You apply through the Department of Home Affairs, which decides whether to grant a 5-year or 1-year travel facility.
You must meet one of these core status requirements:
- Current Australian permanent resident
- Former permanent resident whose last permanent visa wasn’t cancelled
- Former Australian citizen who lost or renounced citizenship
If you need application steps, required documents, or current fees in AUD (A$), refer to the Department of Home Affairs official guidance, including forms like Form Form 80 if requested.
Who Can Apply
#You can apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) if you already hold, or previously held, Australian permanent residence or citizenship and need to maintain or restore travel rights.
Your eligibility depends on your visa history, your time in Australia, and whether you can show ongoing ties that benefit Australia.
Primary eligibility categories
You may apply if you are:
- An Australian permanent resident
- A former permanent resident whose last permanent visa wasn’t cancelled
- A former Australian citizen who lost or renounced citizenship
You must hold or have held a permanent visa such as:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801)
- Parent Visa (subclass 103)
- Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
Australian citizens can’t apply for an RRV.
You’re not eligible if:
- Your permanent visa was cancelled
- A previous RRV application was refused
- You held certain business-related visas (such as subclass 132, 188, or 888) and had a subclass 155, 157, or 159 visa cancelled
Family members in your application need to show a genuine and continuing relationship with you.
You must meet the character requirement. Home Affairs may ask for supporting documents, including Form Form 80, to check your background.
Residence requirement (2 years / 5 years)
The standard rule: you need to have spent at least 2 years in Australia during the last 5 years as:
- A permanent visa holder, or
- An Australian citizen
If you meet this, Home Affairs can grant you a 5-year travel facility on a subclass 155 visa.
If you don’t meet the 2-year requirement, different rules kick in depending on your situation.
| Situation | Possible Outcome |
|---|---|
| You are outside Australia and show substantial ties that benefit Australia | Up to 12‑month travel facility |
| You have compelling and compassionate reasons for your absence and have not been absent during the 5 years before applying | 3‑month travel facility (subclass 157) |
You can’t hold a Transitional (permanent) visa with an Authority to Return or Return Endorsement and apply for an RRV at the same time.
New Zealand passport holders should tell the Australian Border Force at clearance that they hold a permanent visa and don’t want a temporary Special Category visa (subclass 444).
Other eligibility rules and exceptions
If you don’t meet the 2-year residence rule, you must show substantial ties to Australia that benefit Australia. These ties must be ongoing and real.
Home Affairs weighs up:
- How strong and long-lasting your connections are
- Whether your ties benefit Australia
- Why you stayed outside Australia
Compelling reasons for absence may support a shorter travel facility under subclass 157, but this is limited.
You won’t qualify if:
- Your visa was cancelled on business grounds
- You previously had an RRV refused
- Cancellation action is underway for a subclass 155, 157, or 159 visa
You must meet the character requirement and give accurate information. Incomplete or misleading info can lead to refusal.
How to Apply Step by Step
#You’ll apply for a Resident Return Visa through your ImmiAccount with the Department of Home Affairs. Pick the right subclass, fill in every required field, and upload clear evidence before you hit submit.
Start in ImmiAccount
Create or log in to your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. Paper applications aren’t accepted for this visa.
When starting a new application, you’ll be asked for:
- Visa type*
- Visa stream*
- Application date*
- Your current immigration status
- Your arrival and travel history
- Your reason for needing a Resident Return Visa
Fields with an asterisk (*) are mandatory. The system won’t let you continue if they’re blank.
Get your documents ready before you start. If you previously held visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801), Parent Visa (subclass 103), Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143), or Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101), have your grant details handy.
If you make a mistake after submission, use Form 1023 to notify Home Affairs of incorrect information.
Select visa type and stream
Pick the correct Resident Return Visa subclass:
| Subclass | When to Select |
|---|---|
| Subclass 155 | If you need to maintain or renew travel facility on a permanent visa |
| Subclass 157 | If you don’t meet the requirements for subclass 155 |
You’ll need to select both visa type and stream in the online form. The system doesn’t do this for you.
Before confirming, check:
- Your previous permanent visa subclass
- The grant date for that visa
- Your travel history since grant
- Why you need the Resident Return Visa now
Enter your info exactly as it appears in your visa records. Any mismatch in dates or subclass numbers can slow things down.
Check the current application charge in AUD (A$) based on the Department of Home Affairs fee information before paying.
Submit and manage your application
Upload all required documents through your ImmiAccount before you lodge. Use clear scans and label files so a case officer can find what they need.
Typical steps in ImmiAccount:
-
Upload supporting documents
-
Review and confirm your declarations
-
Pay the visa application charge
-
Submit the application
After you submit, you can:
- Track your application status
- Respond to requests from Home Affairs
- Upload extra documents
- Correct errors using Form 1023
Check your account often. Home Affairs contacts you through ImmiAccount, not by mail. If they ask for more information, reply within the deadline to avoid delays or refusal.
Document Checklist
#You’ll need to prove your identity, your permanent residency history, and your ongoing connection to Australia. Home Affairs uses these documents to check if you’re eligible for a Resident Return Visa.
Get clear copies and make sure all names and dates are consistent.
Proof of identity and residency
You’ll need to show who you are and confirm your past or current Australian permanent resident status.
Provide:
- Current passport (bio page with photo, personal details, issue and expiry dates)
- Any previous passports used during your time in Australia
- Evidence of Australian permanent residency or citizenship status
- Documents confirming any change of name (such as a marriage certificate)
- Details of your current immigration status and prior residency history
If you held visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801), Parent Visa (subclass 103), Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143), or Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101), make sure your residency history matches your records.
Answer biographical and identity verification questions accurately. Inconsistencies can slow down processing.
| Document Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Passport bio page | Confirms identity and travel document validity |
| PR or citizenship evidence | Confirms residency status |
| Name change document | Links records under different names |
| Prior visa history | Confirms lawful residency background |
Evidence of substantial ties
If you’ve spent significant time outside Australia, you’ll need to prove ongoing substantial ties.
Home Affairs looks at ties in four main areas:
- Employment ties (work in Australia)
- Business ties (ownership or active business involvement)
- Cultural ties (recognised participation in Australian cultural activities)
- Family ties (close family lawfully residing in Australia)
Provide real documents, not just statements. This could be employment records, business paperwork, or proof of immediate family in Australia.
If you’ve been outside Australia for more than five years, strong and well-documented ties matter even more. You need to show these ties are genuine and ongoing, not just in the past.
Your documents should clearly connect you to Australia during your absence.
Supporting documents for absences and history
You’ll need to explain your time outside Australia and back it up with evidence.
Include:
- A clear travel history covering your prior stay in Australia
- Reasons for each extended absence
- Documents supporting compelling reasons for absence, if relevant
Make sure your dates match passport stamps and travel records. If there are discrepancies, Home Affairs may ask for more details.
You might be asked to complete detailed background forms, like Form Form 80, if needed. Give full and accurate details about your personal history.
Incomplete or unsupported claims can slow assessment. Attach all relevant documents when you lodge your application to avoid processing interruptions.
Cost and Timeline
#You must pay the correct application charge and submit all required documents before Home Affairs will process your Resident Return Visa. Fees, processing times, and payment mistakes all play a role in how quickly you’ll get a decision.
Application fees
As of July 2025, the Resident Return Visa application fee is A$465.
| Item | Amount (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Return Visa application charge | A$465 | Must be paid at time of lodgement |
You must pay the full and correct charge when you lodge your application. If you underpay, Home Affairs will not process the application.
Attach all required documents at lodgement to avoid delays. If Home Affairs requests more information, assessment pauses until you respond.
Processing times and fees for other visas—such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801), Parent Visa (subclass 103), Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143), or Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)—differ.
Processing time guidance
Processing times depend on your circumstances and whether your documents are complete. Home Affairs publishes estimated timeframes through its visa processing times guide tool.
The guide shows recently finalised applications. Review the dropdown list for the Resident Return Visa category to see current estimates.
Some applications finish quickly. In straightforward cases, general guidance suggests 1–3 weeks, but this is never guaranteed.
If Home Affairs asks for more information, like identity documents or character details, expect delays. Where Form Form 80 is required, processing can stretch out much longer.
For example, under the “Skilled (Permanent)” category, Form 80 processing has been around 13 months (as of February 2026). Processing times vary with location and visa stream.
Home Affairs’ quarterly processing reports provide updated trends.
Payment and charge issues
You must:
- Pay the exact A$465 charge
- Submit payment at the time of application
- Keep confirmation of payment
- Attach required supporting documents
If you don’t pay the correct charge, Home Affairs will not process your application. This blocks assessment from starting.
Your application date is the date you lodge and pay correctly. Delays in payment affect your place in the queue.
If you have technical problems lodging online, clear your browser cache and refresh (Ctrl + F5). If payment issues persist, resolve them before re‑submitting to avoid duplicate or invalid applications.
Home Affairs manages visa processing. The Australian Border Force manages border entry and doesn’t handle application charges.
What You Can and Cannot Do — RRV 155
#An RRV 155 lets you keep your permanent resident status and gives you a limited travel facility. You must monitor the travel facility end date and follow Home Affairs rules when you apply or travel.
Travel facility durations
Your Subclass 155 Resident Return visa includes a travel facility that allows you to leave and re‑enter Australia while it’s valid. The length of this facility depends on your circumstances and what Home Affairs grants.
Unused travel facility time from a previous visa can’t be transferred or “carried over.” Each RRV 155 stands on its own.
You can check your current visa status and travel facility end date through VEVO. Home Affairs sends a reminder before the travel facility expires, but you’re still responsible for tracking the date.
For comparison, some other visas operate differently:
| Visa | Travel Facility |
|---|---|
| Resident Return visa (subclass 155) | Limited, as granted |
| Pacific Engagement visa (subclass 192) – Treaty stream (Tuvalu) | Unlimited travel facility |
An unlimited travel facility under another visa doesn’t apply to an RRV 155.
Restrictions and exclusions
An RRV 155 doesn’t grant new permanent residence. It restores or maintains your ability to travel as an existing permanent resident.
You must apply correctly. Submitting a paper application without Home Affairs’ authorisation makes the application invalid.
Holding certain visas can impact eligibility. For example, if you hold a Subclass 444 visa and intend to apply for an RRV, check how that status affects your eligibility before lodging.
You can’t rely on time spent on other visas such as:
- Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801)
- Parent Visa (subclass 103)
- Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
Each visa has its own travel conditions and status rules. An RRV 155 doesn’t change the terms of those visas.
Home Affairs may request supporting documents during processing, including character information like Form Form 80, if needed.
Managing travel facility expiry
You must monitor your travel facility end date before making international travel plans. Airlines and the Australian Border Force check your visa status at the time you seek entry.
Use VEVO to confirm:
- Your visa subclass
- Whether your travel facility is still valid
- The exact expiry date
If your travel facility expires while you’re outside Australia, you can’t re‑enter as a permanent resident without a valid RRV.
Lodge a new RRV application with Home Affairs before your current travel facility ends if you plan to travel after that date.
Reminders help, but don’t rely on them. Your ability to return to Australia depends on holding a valid travel facility at the time of entry.
How Your Application Is Assessed
#Home Affairs checks whether you meet the residence requirement or can show substantial ties that benefit Australia. Officers look at your evidence, the accuracy of your forms, and whether you followed the correct lodgement process.
What officers look for
Home Affairs first checks if you meet the residence requirement. If not, officers look at whether you have substantial ties to Australia that benefit Australia.
They review:
- Your visa history and current status
- Time spent in and outside Australia
- The type of permanent visa you hold, such as:
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801)
- Parent Visa (subclass 103)
- Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
Lodging a Resident Return visa (subclass 155) application doesn’t guarantee approval. You must meet either the residence requirement or clearly demonstrate qualifying ties.
Officers also check that you applied correctly. Paper applications without authorisation can cause problems or delays.
Evidence of ties and residence
If you rely on the residence requirement, provide clear records showing your time in Australia. Incomplete travel history weakens your case.
If you rely on substantial ties, you must show that those ties:
- Are genuine and ongoing
- Connect you meaningfully to Australia
- Provide a benefit to Australia
Common supporting documents include identity records, visa grant notices, and detailed background information such as Form Form 80 if requested.
Use a structured approach:
| Requirement | What You Must Show |
|---|---|
| Residence requirement | Documented periods of lawful stay in Australia |
| Substantial ties | Evidence of real, continuing connections that benefit Australia |
| Identity and history | Complete and consistent personal and travel details |
Officers assess the total picture. Weak or vague claims without documents carry little weight.
Application shortcomings that cause flags
Most problems come from missing or inconsistent information. Home Affairs expects complete and accurate documentation at lodgement.
Common issues include:
- Not meeting the residence requirement
- Failing to demonstrate substantial ties
- Incomplete or incorrect information
- Missing required documents
- Paper applications without approval
Missing attachments can delay processing. Inconsistent dates, undeclared travel, or unexplained gaps may trigger further scrutiny.
Accuracy is essential. If you omit key documents or provide unclear evidence, officers may question whether you meet the legal criteria.
Avoid These Errors
#Small inconsistencies and missing disclosures are behind most delays and refusals in Resident Return Visa applications. You must provide complete timelines, consistent forms, and honest answers to Home Affairs.
Expert tips
Start by building a 10‑year timeline of your addresses, employment, education, and travel before opening Form
- Account for every month. If you cared for family, travelled, or volunteered, list it clearly to avoid gaps.
Cross-check Form Form 80 against Form 1221 if both are required. The overlapping sections must match exactly.
| Section | Form 80 | Form 1221 | What You Must Do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Addresses | Yes | Yes | Ensure dates and locations match exactly |
| Employment | Yes | Yes | Use identical job titles and timeframes |
| Travel history | Yes | Yes | List the same countries and dates |
Declare all international travel, including trips to conflict-affected regions. Omitting travel draws more scrutiny than declaring it.
Use passport stamps, boarding passes, and booking confirmations to reconstruct dates. If you can’t get exact dates, provide your best estimate and keep it consistent across all documents.
Police certificates expire 12 months from issue. If processing takes longer, you’ll need a new one.
Common mistakes to avoid
Failure to disclose criminal history leads to refusal. You must declare:
- Convictions
- Spent convictions
- Pending charges
- Ongoing investigations
Home Affairs treats omission more seriously than the offence itself.
Unexplained gaps in your 10-year history often delay processing. List every period, even informal activities like caring for children or travelling without employment.
Inconsistencies between Form 80 and Form 1221 trigger delays. Even small date differences can suspend assessment while Home Affairs seeks clarification.
Submitting forms in a language other than English can result in rejection. Complete all forms in English. Provide certified translations only for supporting documents issued in another language.
Providing false or misleading information can result in visa refusal, cancellation, and a ban on future applications.
How to prepare detailed evidence
Create a structured evidence file before you submit your application. Organize documents by category:
- Identity documents
- Address history proof
- Employment records
- Travel records
- Police certificates
For travel history, compare your passport stamps with airline records. Prepare a simple table to confirm accuracy:
| Country | Entry Date | Exit Date | Source of Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example | 10/03/2019 | 25/03/2019 | Passport stamp |
If you previously held visas such as the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189), Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801), Parent Visa (subclass 103), Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143), or Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101), make sure your historical details match what you submitted in those applications.
Complete Form 80 carefully because it supports security checks. Provide full and consistent information so Home Affairs can finalise your Resident Return Visa without unnecessary delay.
When to Consult a Professional
#You should seek professional guidance when your Resident Return Visa situation involves prior applications, complex visa histories, or technical issues with your ImmiAccount. Clear advice helps you submit the correct visa type, complete required forms, and manage communication with Home Affairs properly.
When you should get help
Consult a professional if you’re unsure which visa type or stream to select in your ImmiAccount. Selecting the wrong visa type or incorrect application date can delay processing or result in refusal.
Get help if you previously applied for visas such as:
- Partner Visa (onshore) (subclasses 820/801)
- Parent Visa (subclass 103)
- Contributory Parent Visa (subclass 143)
- Child Visa (offshore) (subclass 101)
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
A professional can review your visa history and confirm whether your Resident Return Visa application aligns with your status.
Seek assistance if Home Affairs requests additional information such as Form Form 80 or other character-related details. Errors or incomplete disclosures can create serious complications.
Technical issues also justify advice. If you can’t access your ImmiAccount, have lost your username or password, or no longer have access to your multi-factor authentication app, a professional can guide you on restoring access before deadlines pass.
Who to consult
Consult a registered migration professional who understands how Home Affairs processes online applications through ImmiAccount. They can:
- Confirm your correct visa type and stream
- Review your application date before submission
- Ensure required fields marked as mandatory are completed
- Check supporting information for consistency
A professional can coordinate complex cases involving multiple prior visas. For example:
| Situation | Why Professional Help Matters |
|---|---|
| Multiple prior visa subclasses | Ensures correct visa selection in ImmiAccount |
| Character information requests (Form 80) | Reduces risk of incomplete disclosure |
| Account access problems | Prevents missed communications from Home Affairs |
If your matter involves border travel rather than the visa decision itself, know the distinction between authorities. Home Affairs handles visa applications. The Australian Border Force manages border entry.
How authorities are involved
The Department of Home Affairs manages Resident Return Visa applications. You must submit your application online through an ImmiAccount and select the correct visa type and stream.
During the process, you may need to:
-
Create or log into your ImmiAccount
-
Select your visa type
-
Enter your application date using the date picker
-
Complete all mandatory fields
Home Affairs communicates through your ImmiAccount. If you don’t monitor your account, you could miss important requests.
The Australian Border Force does not process your visa application. It manages entry at the border once a visa decision has been made. Understanding this distinction prevents confusion about where to direct questions or documents.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application feeResident Return 155/157. Same fee for 5-year or 1-year validity | A$465 (approx $321 USD) |
Fees change; always verify on Home Affairs.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Do you need to submit Form 80?
Home Affairs may ask for Form Form 80 (Personal particulars for assessment including character assessment).
If they do, complete it accurately.
Follow the instructions in your application notice to prevent delays.
Where can you check current fees and requirements?
- Information Type: Application fees (AUD A$). Where to Check: Home Affairs fee information and fee calculator
- Information Type: Eligibility criteria. Where to Check: Home Affairs visa pages
- Information Type: Required documents. Where to Check: Your ImmiAccount document checklist
Home Affairs updates requirements and fees regularly.
What is the Resident Return Visa and who is it for?
The form is used by people who wish to return to Australia as permanent residents after travel. It helps determine eligibility and grants a visa that allows former permanent residents or certain former Australian citizens to resume residency. It applies to people who previously held permanent residency or were former Australian citizens.
Do I need to have the RRV granted before I travel back to Australia?
Yes. If you wish to return to Australia as a permanent resident, you must apply for and be granted this visa before your arrival in Australia.
What is the basic residence requirement to qualify for the RRV?
A common requirement is that you have been present in Australia for 2 years in the last 5 years as a permanent visa holder (the residence requirement).
If I haven’t met the residence requirement, can I still get an RRV?
Possibly. If you have not met the residence requirement you must demonstrate substantial ties to Australia that are of benefit to Australia; this may allow a visa but with different travel facility length depending on circumstances.
How long are the travel facilities on an RRV?
If you meet the 2 years in 5 years residence requirement, you can be granted a 5‑year travel facility. If you are outside Australia and demonstrate substantial ties of benefit, a maximum 12‑month travel facility may be granted. In limited compassionate cases you may be given a 3‑month travel facility (subclass 157).
Which documents are commonly required with the application?
Common documents include proof of Australian permanent residency or citizenship status, a valid passport or travel document, identity documents (including any change of name records), and evidence of substantial ties such as business, cultural, employment or family connections. You should include documentary evidence to support claims such as compelling reasons for absences.
How do I apply and manage my RRV application?
Apply through Immi Account: create an Immi Account, select the correct visa subclass and stream, attach required documents, and submit the application online. Complete the form accurately and use the Immi Account tools to manage attachments and updates.
How much does the application cost and how long does processing typically take?
The stated application fee is A$465 (approx US$321) (as of 2025-07). For processing time guidance, use the visa processing times guide; a typical processing time range indicated here is 1–3 weeks.
Can past visa cancellations or refusals affect my eligibility?
Yes. You are not eligible for an RRV if you have had a visa cancelled on business grounds or a previous application refused; prior cancellations or refusals can affect eligibility.
When should I consult an immigration professional?
Consult a qualified adviser or the Department of Home Affairs (the issuing authority) if your case involves complexities such as previous visa cancellations or refusals, undisclosed or complicated criminal history, or unusual travel/absence circumstances. The Department of Home Affairs handles these applications and related issues.
Official sources referenced
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
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