Former Resident Visa — Subclass 151
Former Resident Visa
The Former Resident visa (subclass 151) is available to people who previously held Australian permanent residence but have since lost that status. It is a points-tested permanent visa with specific eligibility criteria. Not all former permanent residents will qualify and legal advice should be sought before any application is considered.
Who the subclass 151 covers
The subclass 151 is designed for people who held Australian permanent residence at some point and have since lost that status, typically through extended absence or failure to renew travel facilities. It is distinct from the Resident Return Visa, which is for people who still hold permanent residence but whose travel facility has expired.
The visa requires the applicant to have previously lived in Australia as a permanent resident and to have maintained a close and continuing association with Australia. A points test applies. The applicant must score the required points threshold at the time the invitation to apply is issued.
This is not a visa that can be applied for as a fallback. The eligibility criteria are specific, the points requirement is real, and the Department exercises genuine discretion in assessing the depth of the applicant's prior connection to Australia.
Key eligibility criteria
Previous permanent residence
The applicant must have previously held Australian permanent resident status. Australian citizens who have renounced citizenship are not eligible via this pathway.
Close and continuing association
The Department assesses the depth and continuity of the applicant's association with Australia, including time spent in Australia, family ties, property interests, and other connections.
Points test
A points test applies. Points are allocated for age, English language ability, skilled employment, and other factors. The required threshold must be met at the time the invitation to apply is issued.
Health and character
Health and character requirements apply. A medical examination and police certificates from countries of residence are typically required.
151
Visa subclass
Points
Points test applies
Permanent
Permanent visa if granted
Discretionary
Not guaranteed by prior PR
Why instruct Visa Plan?
Eligibility assessment
The subclass 151 has specific requirements that many former permanent residents do not meet. We assess eligibility before any application is prepared, and advise honestly on the prospects.
Association evidence
The strength of the applicant's demonstrated association with Australia is the central issue in most subclass 151 cases. We build this case from the applicant's full history of connection to Australia.
Alternative pathways
Where the subclass 151 is not available or is unlikely to succeed, we identify alternative pathways, including skilled migration options and employer-sponsored pathways where applicable.
Former Resident Visa information is sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and is current as at 2 June 2026. Eligibility criteria and conditions are subject to change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.