Resident Visas
Resident Visas for Australia
Australian permanent residents whose travel facility has expired require a Resident Return Visa to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident. Former permanent residents who have lost their permanent resident status may apply for a Former Resident visa to return to Australia.
Permanent residence and travel rights
Permanent residence in Australia does not expire. However, the travel facility attached to a permanent resident visa, which permits re-entry to Australia, does expire. It is typically valid for five years from the date of grant of the permanent visa. Once it expires, the holder can no longer use that visa to re-enter Australia.
A permanent resident who is outside Australia when their travel facility expires must apply for a Resident Return Visa before they can return. Failing to obtain an RRV before departure, or remaining outside Australia until the travel facility has lapsed, is a common and avoidable situation that requires legal advice to resolve.
A person who has lost permanent resident status entirely is in a fundamentally different position and must apply for a Former Resident visa rather than an RRV.
Resident visa types
Resident Return Visa (RRV), Subclass 155
For permanent residents who have spent at least two years in Australia in the five years preceding the application. Granted with a five-year travel facility.
Resident Return Visa (RRV), Subclass 157
For permanent residents who cannot meet the two-year residence requirement but can demonstrate substantial ties to Australia of benefit to the country. Discretionary.
Former Resident Visa, Subclass 151
For people who held Australian permanent residence previously but have lost that status. Subject to a points test and specific eligibility criteria.
155 / 157
Resident Return Visa subclasses
151
Former Resident Visa subclass
2 years
Residence required for subclass 155
5 years
Travel facility on RRV grant
Why instruct Visa Plan?
Residence calculation
The two-year residence requirement for a subclass 155 requires precise calculation of time spent in Australia. We confirm whether the threshold is met before any application is lodged.
Compelling circumstances for subclass 157
Where the residence requirement cannot be met, the subclass 157 requires substantial ties and compelling circumstances. We assess whether those grounds exist and prepare the submission accordingly.
Former resident eligibility
Loss of permanent resident status is a complex situation. We assess whether the subclass 151 is available, whether any other pathway exists, and advise on the realistic prospects before any application is prepared.
Resident visa information is sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and is current as at 15 October 2026. Eligibility criteria and conditions are subject to change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.