Resident Return visa (subclass 155 157)
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Overview
The Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 and 157) allows current or former Australian permanent residents, or former Australian citizens, to travel overseas and return to Australia as permanent residents. These visas are designed to maintain or restore the permanent resident status for eligible individuals who need to travel outside Australia.Â
Subclass 155 vs. Subclass 157
- Subclass 155: This visa is typically granted for a period of up to five years, allowing the visa holder to travel freely in and out of Australia. It is intended for individuals who have maintained a substantial connection with Australia.
- Subclass 157: This visa is usually granted for a period of up to three months and is intended for individuals who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Subclass 155 visa but have compelling reasons for travel.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 and 157), applicants must meet specific requirements based on their previous residency status and their connection to Australia:Â
Subclass 155 Eligibility:Â
- Permanent Resident or Former Citizen: Applicants must be current or former Australian permanent residents or former Australian citizens.
- Residence Requirement: Applicants must have spent at least two of the last five years in Australia as a permanent resident or Australian citizen. If this requirement is not met, they must demonstrate substantial ties to Australia that are of benefit to the country.
- Character Requirements: Applicants must meet specific character requirements, which may involve providing police clearance certificates.
Subclass 157 Eligibility:Â
- Permanent Resident or Former Citizen: Applicants must be current or former Australian permanent residents or former Australian citizens.
- Residence Requirement: Applicants must have spent at least one day in the last five years in Australia as a permanent resident or Australian citizen and have compelling reasons for leaving Australia.
- Character Requirements: Applicants must meet specific character requirements, which may involve providing police clearance certificates.
Visa Conditions
The Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 and 157) comes with specific conditions that must be adhered to during the stay in Australia:Â
- Travel Rights: Visa holders can travel freely in and out of Australia during the validity of their visa.
- Obey Australian Laws: Visa holders must comply with all Australian laws and respect the conditions of their visa.
Benefits of the Work and Holiday Visa
The Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) offers numerous benefits:Â
- Maintain Permanent Residency: Provides the ability to maintain or restore permanent resident status in Australia.
- Travel Flexibility: Allows visa holders to travel freely in and out of Australia during the validity of their visa.
- Access to Services: Ensures that visa holders continue to have access to essential services and benefits as Australian permanent residents.
- Pathway to Citizenship: Offers a pathway to becoming an Australian citizen, with all associated rights and privileges.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Complete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are gathered and submitted accurately to avoid delays.
- Meet Residence Requirements: Clearly demonstrate that you meet the residence requirements or have substantial ties or compelling reasons for travel.
- Maintain Health Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consider seeking assistance from a migration agent or legal advisor to help navigate the application process and enhance your chances of a successful outcome.
How Echoes Global Education Can Help
Echoes Global Education offers comprehensive support for individuals applying for the Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 and 157). Our experienced consultants provide personalized guidance, ensuring your application is complete and accurate. We assist with document preparation, demonstrating substantial ties or compelling reasons for travel, and understanding visa conditions. Our goal is to streamline your visa application process, maximizing your chances of a successful outcome and ensuring your legal return to Australia as a permanent resident.Â
ConclusionÂ
The Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 and 157) is an essential visa for current or former Australian permanent residents and former Australian citizens who need to maintain or restore their permanent resident status while traveling overseas. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits is crucial for a successful application. For more detailed information and assistance, it is advisable to consult the official website of the Australian Department of Home Affairs or seek guidance from a registered migration agent.Â
DisclaimerÂ
This content is a general guide and not specific legal advice. For the most current and detailed information, please refer to the official Australian Government website for the Resident Return Visa Subclass 155 and 157.Â
FAQ
If you are applying this visa under the post-study work stream, a skill assessment is not needed.
Only if you are applying under the Graduate stream, you must provide an evidence of having your skills assessed by the relevant authority.
While the checklist varies depending on different cases, some of the common documents required are:
- Current passports or travel documents
- Copy of birth certificate showing parents of both primary applicant and the spouse
- Evidence of name change
- Certified copies of marriage certificates
- If you are in de facto relationship, evidence showing a relationship for at least 12 months is required
- If the spouse is widowed, divorced or separated permanently, a certified copy of death certificate, divorce or separation documents are required.
- Health & Character documents
Visa Class
To be eligible for the Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), applicants must meet several criteria:Â