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Subclass 155
Resident Return Visa
The Resident Return Visa (subclass 155), often called the 155 visa Australia or 155 resident return visa, allows current or former permanent residents to re-enter Australia after their initial 5-year travel facility expires, maintaining permanent residency status.
Why Choose Edvise Hub?
The Resident Return Visa (subclass 155), commonly known as the 155 visa Australia or 155 resident return visa, is essential for Australian permanent residents whose initial 5-year travel facility has expired or is about to expire. According to the Australian Department of Home Affairs, this visa allows you to maintain your permanent residency status while traveling in and out of Australia. Unlike Australian citizens, permanent residents do not have an automatic lifelong right to re-enter the country— the subclass 155 visa restores that travel facility.
This visa is part of the broader Resident Return visas (subclasses 155 and 157). Applications are assessed against both, with subclass 155 preferred for longer travel validity. If your travel facility expires while you're in Australia, your residency remains intact indefinitely, but you'll need the resident return subclass 155 to leave and return. Apply early to avoid complications—consult the official site for the latest updates.
Key Benefits and Features of the Subclass 155 Visa
The 155 resident return visa provides permanent residency with a renewed travel facility, enabling you to:
- Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
- Travel multiple times without losing residency.
- Access Medicare and other benefits.
- Pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency rules.
Fahad Shamim
Migration & Education Consultant
MARA Registered
MARN 2619225
QEAC
G12906
As a Migration & Education Consultant, I provide expert guidance on Australian visas and international education, helping clients navigate both with ease.
Eligibility Requirements for Subclass 155 Visa
To qualify for the subclass 155 visa, you must be:
- A current Australian permanent resident.
- A former permanent resident (last visa not cancelled).
- A former Australian citizen who lost/renounced citizenship.
The core criteria determine your travel facility length:
- 5-Year Travel Facility: Spent at least 2 years (730 days) in Australia in the last 5 years as a permanent resident/citizen.
- 1-Year Travel Facility: Substantial ties to Australia (business, cultural, employment, or personal) that benefit the country.
For absences over 5 continuous years, provide compelling reasons (e.g., family care, work posting).
Family members of eligible holders may qualify for up to 1 year.
Subclass 155 vs Subclass 157: Key Differences
Applications are assessed for both subclasses:
- Subclass 155: Preferred; up to 5 years (or 1 year with ties).
- Subclass 157: Shorter; typically 3 months for compelling reasons if ties/residence not met.
Step-by-Step Subclass 155 Application Process
The subclass 155 application is straightforward via ImmiAccount:
- Check Eligibility: Use VEVO to confirm your current travel facility expiry.
- Create ImmiAccount: Log in or register on the Department of Home Affairs portal.
- Lodge Application: Complete Form 1085 online; provide passport details.
- Upload Documents: Evidence of residence, ties (if needed), character (police checks if requested).
- Pay Fee: AUD 490 (online); higher for paper.
- Biometrics/Health: Rarely required.
- Await Decision: Track via ImmiAccount.
Tip: Apply before traveling if your facility is expiring. Processing is often instant or within days for those meeting the 2-in-5 rule.
Costs, Processing Times, and Tips for 2025
- Visa Application Charge: AUD 490 online (as of July 2024; check for updates).
- Processing Times: 50% in <1 day; 90% in 16 days for subclass 155.
- No Refunds: Generally non-refundable if refused.
For faster approval:
- Provide complete evidence upfront.
- Apply onshore if possible.
- Demonstrate strong ties if short on residence days.
If refused, limited review rights exist (especially offshore).
Long Absences and Compelling Reasons
If absent continuously for 5+ years:
- Must show compelling/compassionate reasons for absence.
- Ties must still benefit Australia.
Examples: Serious illness, caring for family, unavoidable overseas work.
Why Apply for a Resident Return Subclass 155 Now?
Thousands of permanent residents face expired travel facilities annually. The 155 visa Australia ensures uninterrupted access to your life in Australia—family, property, career. With quick processing and online convenience, there's no reason to delay.
Call to Action: Check your VEVO status today. If your travel facility expires soon, start your subclass 155 application via ImmiAccount. For complex cases (e.g., long absences), consult a registered migration agent for personalized guidance.
Alternatives: Australian Citizenship
The ultimate solution? Apply for citizenship after 4 years of residency (including 1 as PR). Citizens have unlimited re-entry rights—no need for RRVs.
Ready to secure your future? Visit the Department of Home Affairs for official tools and forms.
FAQs
What is the subclass 155 visa?
The subclass 155 visa is a Resident Return Visa that renews the travel facility for Australian permanent residents, allowing re-entry for up to 5 years.
Who is eligible for the 155 resident return visa?
Current or former Australian permanent residents (or former citizens) whose last visa was not cancelled, meeting residence or substantial ties requirements.
How long is the travel facility on a subclass 155 visa?
Up to 5 years if you've lived in Australia for 2 years in the last 5; otherwise, 1 year with substantial ties.
What is the cost of a subclass 155 application?
AUD 490 for online applications as of 2025.
How long does subclass 155 visa processing take?
Often less than 1 day for straightforward cases; up to 16-21 days for 90% of applications.
Can I apply for the resident return subclass 155 from outside Australia?
Yes, you can apply onshore or offshore, but it must be granted before re-entering as a permanent resident.
What happens if my 5-year travel facility expires?
You remain a permanent resident if in Australia, but need a subclass 155 visa to re-enter after travel.
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