Introduction
Are you a permanent resident in Australia but planning to travel outside the country? Then you might need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV), especially if you plan to return to Australia after your travel. This visa is for permanent residents who want to re-enter and stay in Australia after their initial visa has expired or if they have not complied with the residency requirements for their permanent visa.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for an RRV, you must meet certain requirements:
- You must be a permanent resident of Australia.
- You must have spent at least two years in the last five years in Australia as a permanent resident or have substantial ties to Australia.
- Your permanent visa must not have expired for more than five years.
If you do not meet these requirements, you may still be eligible for an RRV if you can demonstrate compelling and compassionate reasons for your absence from Australia.
Types of Resident Return Visa
There are two types of RRV:
- Subclass 155: This visa is for permanent residents who have met the residency requirements and want to travel outside Australia and return as a permanent resident.
- Subclass 157: This visa is for permanent residents who have not met the residency requirements but have substantial ties to Australia and want to travel outside Australia and return as a permanent resident.
How to Apply
You can apply for an RRV online or by mail. Before you apply, make sure you have the following:
- Your passport and other travel documents.
- Your permanent resident visa grant notice.
- Evidence of your ties to Australia if you have not met the residency requirements.
- A valid reason for your absence from Australia, if applicable.
- The visa application fee.
The processing time for an RRV application can take up to three months, so make sure you apply well in advance of your planned travel.
Cost
The cost of an RRV application varies depending on the type of visa and where you apply from. As of 2021, the cost for an RRV application ranges from AUD 405 to AUD 1,020.
Conclusion
Applying for a Resident Return Visa can be a complex process, but it is necessary if you plan to travel outside Australia and want to return as a permanent resident. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, have all the necessary documents, and apply well in advance of your planned travel to avoid any delays.
