Applying for an Australian Resident Return Visa (RRV) can be a confusing process, especially with all the myths and misconceptions surrounding it.
In this post, we’ll tackle 5 common myths about the RRV and set the record straight to help you make informed decisions.
Myth 1: “If I’ve Had PR Before, I Can Always Renew It”
❌ Myth: If you were once a permanent resident of Australia, you can always renew your visa, no matter how long you’ve been outside the country.
✅ Reality: To qualify for an RRV, you must meet certain residency or substantial ties requirements. If you haven’t been in Australia for at least 2 years in the last 5 years, you may not be eligible for a 5-year RRV and will need to prove substantial ties for a 1-year RRV.
Myth 2: “You Need to Live in Australia Full-Time to Keep Your PR”
❌ Myth: To keep your permanent residency, you must live in Australia on a full-time basis, and leaving for long periods will result in losing your PR status.
✅ Reality: You can leave Australia for extended periods and still keep your PR status, but to return, you must have a valid RRV. If your RRV expires while you’re overseas, you may need to apply for a new RRV.
Myth 3: “The RRV is Guaranteed if You Have PR”
❌ Myth: If you’ve been granted PR, your RRV application will automatically be approved.
✅ Reality: RRV approval isn’t guaranteed. You need to meet eligibility criteria and submit all required documents. Factors such as not meeting the 2-year residency rule or failing to prove substantial ties could lead to a refusal.
Myth 4: “You Can Apply for an RRV at Any Time”
❌ Myth: You can apply for an RRV whenever you want, even if your current RRV has expired.
✅ Reality: If your RRV has expired, you cannot return to Australia without a valid RRV unless you’re a citizen or New Zealand citizen. If you are overseas, you’ll need to apply for a new RRV, and the processing time can take weeks or even months.
Myth 5: “The RRV Application Process Is Quick and Easy”
❌ Myth: Applying for an RRV is a quick and straightforward process. You can get it within a few days.
✅ Reality: The RRV application process can take time, especially if you need to submit additional evidence (e.g., substantial ties). Some cases may be processed quickly, but more complex cases or applications with missing documents could take longer—anywhere from 2 weeks to several months.
What to Do If You Need Help with Your RRV Application
If you’ve been caught out by any of these myths or have any doubts about your RRV application, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Drop a comment below or contact us for expert help to ensure your application goes smoothly and successfully.