RRV Resident Return Visa Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the 155 and 157 RRV Resident Return Visas-

WHAT IS THE VISA FEE?

Currently the department visa fee for a RRV is $475 subject to change. latest application fees – Subclasses 155 and 157 Resident Return visa (homeaffairs.gov.au)

WHAT IS THE PROCESSING TIME?

155 visa is relatively quick 1-3 weeks. Depending on your circumstances and if you have been in Australian at least 2 out of the last fife year you can get a same day decision157 can take up to three months. For latest processing times please click here – Global visa processing times (homeaffairs.gov.au)

WHAT IS THE TRAVEL FACILITY ON A PR VISA?

When you are granted a permanent visa usually you will be granted a travel facility period of five years which means you can travel in and out of Australia as often as you like with this permanent visa for 5 years. During these 5 years you can apply for citizenship which will continue to your right to depart and re-enter Australia as you like. If you do not do this and the 5-year travel facility ends on your PR visa, then depending on your circumstances you can apply for a resident return visa to travel while maintaining your PR status.

How to check if my travel facility has expired?

You can check your PR visa grant letter or by entering your passport details on the official department of immigration website to lookup your current status.

On holiday in Bali?

It happens more often you think! We often get panicked call from Australian PR holders who are on holiday who did not realize the travel facility on their permanent residence visa had expired. This does not have to ruin your holiday! To re-enter Australia as a permanent resident you will need to apply for a RRV. If you have spent more than two years out of the last 5 years in Australia as a PR then this can be a quick and easy process

What is the Difference between 155 and 157 RRV?

The main difference between the 155 and 157 Resident Return Visas (RRVs) lies in the travel facility duration, eligibility criteria, and required justifications for absence from Australia. Here’s a breakdown:

Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155)

Travel Facility: Up to five years (or one year if substantial ties are demonstrated).
Eligibility:
- Must have spent at least two years (730 days) in Australia as a permanent resident or citizen in the past five years.
- If the two-year requirement is not met, applicants must show substantial ties to Australia (business, cultural, personal, or employment ties).
Best for:
- Permanent residents who frequently travel and want a longer-term travel facility.
- Those who meet the two-year residency rule or can prove strong ties to Australia.

Resident Return Visa (Subclass 157)

Travel Facility: Up to three months.
Eligibility:
- Must have spent at least one day in Australia as a permanent resident or citizen in the past five years.
- If absent for more than three months, applicants must provide compelling and compassionate reasons for their absence.
Best for:
- Permanent residents who do not qualify for Subclass 155 but need a short-term travel facility.
- Those who have been away from Australia due to unavoidable reasons (e.g., medical emergencies, family obligations, work requirements abroad).

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Subclass 155	Subclass 157
Travel Facility	Up to 5 years (or 1 year if substantial ties)	3 months
Residency Requirement	2 years in the last 5 years	1 day in the last 5 years
Ties to Australia	Required if not meeting 2-year rule	Not required
Compelling Reasons for Absence	Not necessary (unless claiming substantial ties)	Required if absent for 3+ months
Best for	Long-term travel flexibility	Short-term return to Australia

If you’re not sure which visa to apply for, consider whether you meet the two-year rule for Subclass 155. If not, check if you have substantial ties to Australia. If you don’t, and your absence was due to unavoidable reasons, Subclass 157 might be the right option.