Resident Return Visa Subclass 155
The Resident Return Visa Subclass 155 allows Australian permanent residents to travel outside Australia and return after their original travel facility has expired. It is designed for permanent residents who wish to maintain their residency status while travelling internationally.
This visa does not grant permanent residency. It restores or extends your travel facility only.
Who Can Apply for Subclass 155
You may be eligible if you:
Are an Australian permanent resident or former permanent resident
Are outside Australia or in Australia with an expired travel facility
Have met the residence requirement or can demonstrate substantial ties to Australia
Are of good character
Residence Requirement
You meet the residence requirement if:
You have spent at least 2 years in Australia in the last 5 years as a permanent resident or citizen
If you meet this condition, you may be granted a 5-year travel facility.
If You Do Not Meet the Residence Requirement
You may still be eligible if you can demonstrate substantial ties to Australia that are beneficial to the country, including:
Business Ties
Ownership or active involvement in an Australian business
Ongoing commercial or operational commitments in Australia
Employment Ties
Current employment with an Australian organisation
Overseas employment that directly benefits Australia
Cultural or Personal Ties
Long-term family connections in Australia
Community, cultural, or academic involvement
Evidence of strong personal attachment to Australia
In these cases, a 1-year or 3-month travel facility may be granted.
If You Have Been Outside Australia for a Long Time
If you have been absent from Australia for more than 5 years, you must show:
Compelling reasons for your absence
Ongoing connection to Australia
Clear intention to resume residence in Australia
Each case is assessed individually.
Where You Can Apply From
You can apply inside or outside Australia
If you are outside Australia, the visa must be granted before re-entry
If you are in Australia, apply before travelling
Visa Validity
The visa itself is permanent
The travel facility is time-limited
Once the travel facility expires, you cannot re-enter Australia without a new Resident Return Visa
Costs
Government application fee applies
Fees vary depending on circumstances
Application fees are generally non-refundable
Processing Times
Processing times vary based on:
Whether residence requirements are met
Strength of evidence for substantial ties
Location of application
Why Use Visa Aid
Resident Return Visa applications are often refused due to:
Weak evidence of ties
Incorrect assumptions about eligibility
Poor documentation
Visa Aid assists with:
Eligibility assessment
Evidence preparation
Strategy for long-absence cases
Correct application submission
Need Help With Your Resident Return Visa
If your travel facility has expired or is about to expire, do not guess.
Get it assessed properly.
Book a consultation with Visa Aid for professional guidance.
