Former Resident and Resident Return Visas

Australia’s migration pathways provide options for former permanent residents and certain long-term residents to regain their residency status. The Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151) and Resident Return Visas (Subclass 155 & Subclass 157) allow eligible individuals to return to Australia as permanent residents, ensuring continuity of their residency rights or providing a path back to Australia after time spent overseas.

What Are Former Resident and Resident Return Visas?

Former Resident and Resident Return Visas are designed to facilitate the return of people who either held Australian permanent residency in the past or who are current or former permanent residents that need to maintain their permanent residency status after extended periods outside of Australia.

These visa options offer flexibility to individuals who have lived outside Australia for a period of time but wish to return and restore their permanent resident status. Whether you are a former resident looking to return or a current permanent resident wanting to retain your status while overseas, our team of migration agents is here to help.

Former Resident Visa Subclass 151

The Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151) is a permanent visa that allows individuals who previously held Australian permanent residency to regain their residency rights. It is primarily for individuals who lived in Australia as permanent residents during their formative years but have since moved overseas.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 151:

• Former Permanent Resident: You must have previously held Australian permanent residency.
• Formative Years Residency: You must have spent at least 9 years in Australia before turning 18 and held permanent residency during that time.
• Absence from Australia: You must have been outside Australia for a continuous period of at least 10 years immediately before applying.
• Good Character: You must meet Australian character requirements and not have a substantial criminal record.
• No Close Ties: You should not have maintained close family or community ties in Australia during the absence.

This visa provides a pathway for those who grew up in Australia but left the country and now wish to return and rebuild their life in Australia.

Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155)

The Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155) is the primary visa for Australian permanent residents to maintain or regain their permanent resident status after living or traveling overseas. This visa allows permanent residents and eligible former residents to return to Australia if their permanent visa travel facility has expired.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 155:

• Permanent Residency Status: You must either hold Australian permanent residency or have held it in the past.
• Travel Facility Expiration: You must apply if your travel rights have expired or will expire soon.
• Presence in Australia: If you have spent at least 2 years out of the last 5 years in Australia as a permanent resident, you are generally eligible for this visa.
• Substantial Ties: If you have been outside Australia for more than 2 years, you must demonstrate substantial ties to Australia, such as business, employment, personal, or cultural ties.
• Character Requirements: You must meet Australia’s character requirements.

The Resident Return Visa Subclass 155 is a popular option for current or former permanent residents who have been abroad for extended periods but wish to retain their residency status in Australia.

Resident Return Visa (Subclass 157)

The Resident Return Visa (Subclass 157) is a short-term visa that allows permanent residents to return to Australia if they have been outside the country for a short period of time. This visa is typically granted for individuals who have been outside Australia for less than 3 months but do not meet the longer residency requirements of Subclass 155.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 157:

• Permanent Residency Status: You must either hold Australian permanent residency or have held it in the past.
• Short-term Absence: You must have been outside Australia for less than 3 months before applying.
• Previous Stay in Australia: You must have spent at least one day in the previous 5 years in Australia as a permanent resident.
• Compelling Reasons for Absence: If you have been outside Australia for more than 3 months, you must demonstrate compelling reasons for your absence, such as family, health, or work-related circumstances.
• Character Requirements: You must meet Australia’s character requirements.

This visa is ideal for permanent residents who have been abroad for a short duration and need to return to Australia while their travel facility is expired or limited.

Our Former Resident and Resident Return Visa Services

Our migration services are tailored to help individuals navigate the complex requirements of Former Resident and Resident Return Visas. Whether you are looking to regain your Australian residency or maintain it while traveling or living overseas, our experienced agents can help guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all eligibility requirements and submit a comprehensive application.

• Eligibility Assessment: We provide a detailed analysis of your eligibility for Subclass 151, 155, or 157 visas and help you choose the right option based on your circumstances.
• Documentation Assistance: Our team will assist you in gathering and preparing all the necessary documentation, including proof of substantial ties, evidence of residency, and any compelling reasons for your absence.
• Application Submission: We handle the entire application process, from completing forms to lodging your application, ensuring a smooth experience with minimal delays.
• Ongoing Support: We keep you updated on the progress of your application and are available to answer any questions or concerns throughout the process.

Why Choose Us?

Navigating the complexities of Former Resident and Resident Return Visas can be challenging, especially if you have spent considerable time outside of Australia. With our expert advice and personalized support, we ensure your path to regaining or maintaining Australian permanent residency is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

• Experienced Team: Our migration agents are highly knowledgeable in handling complex visa applications for returning residents and former residents.
• Tailored Solutions: We provide personalized solutions to meet your specific needs and circumstances, whether you need to demonstrate substantial ties to Australia or manage documentation for compelling reasons.
• Timely Processing: We work efficiently to ensure your application is submitted accurately and on time, minimizing delays in your visa approval.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your Former Resident or Resident Return Visa application and help you secure your future in Australia!