Subclass 155 is generally for applicants who have spent at least 2 years in Australia in the last 5 years. Subclass 157 is for those who have spent 1 day to less than 2 years and can show compelling and compassionate reasons for their absence.
Residence Return (Subclass 157)
Return (Residence) Visa (Subclass 157)
The Resident Return Visa (RRV) (Class BB) (Subclass 157) enables certain Australian permanent residents and former citizens to return to Australia as permanent residents.
This visa is specifically intended for people who have spent limited time in Australia in the last five years but can show compelling and compassionate reasons for their absence. It offers a vital pathway to re-enter Australia and maintain permanent resident status where standard residency rules are not met.
Return as a Permanent Resident
Designed for Limited Residency
Compassionate Circumstances
Highlights of the Subclass 157 Visa
Apply Onshore or Offshore
You may apply from inside or outside Australia, subject to eligibility.
Live, Work & Study
Continue to live, work, and study in Australia as a permanent resident.
3-Month Travel Facility
Grants permanent residency with a 3-month travel facility to re-enter Australia.
Low Residency Option
Suitable for applicants who spent only a short time in Australia in the last 5 years.
Who Can Apply for a Subclass 157 Visa?
Current or Former Permanent Residents
You may qualify if you are an Australian permanent resident, a former permanent resident, or a former Australian citizen who lost or renounced citizenship.
Limited Residency with Compelling Reasons
Applies to those who spent at least 1 day but less than 2 years in Australia in the last 5 years and can show compelling and compassionate reasons for leaving or remaining overseas.
Family Unit Members
Eligible family members of a person who holds, or has applied for, a Subclass 157 visa may also qualify as part of the family unit.
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Key Eligibility Requirements for the Subclass 157 Visa
Core Eligibility & Residency
- • Eligible Status: You must be a current or former permanent resident, or a former Australian citizen.
- • Limited Residency: Have spent at least 1 day, but less than 2 years, in Australia in the last 5 years as a PR or citizen.
- • Compelling Reasons: Must show compelling and compassionate reasons for leaving or remaining outside Australia.
Additional Conditions & Offshore Rules
- • Family Unit Members: May be eligible if they are part of the family unit of an eligible Subclass 157 applicant or holder.
- • Offshore Applicants: Must not have been outside Australia for more than 3 continuous months before applying, unless compelling reasons exist.
- • Public Interest Criteria: Must satisfy health, character, security and, if offshore, any Special Return Criteria.
Return (Residence) Visa (Subclass 157) – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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1. What is the difference between Subclass 155 and Subclass 157?
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2. How long is the travel facility on a Subclass 157 visa?Subclass 157 grants a 3-month travel facility, allowing you to return to Australia as a permanent resident.
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3. What counts as compelling and compassionate reasons?Examples include serious illness of a family member, medical emergencies, natural disasters, overseas employment or study obligations, and COVID-19 or travel restriction impacts. Each case is assessed individually.
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4. Can I apply for Subclass 157 from outside Australia?Yes. However, if you have been overseas for more than 3 continuous months immediately before applying, you must show strong compelling and compassionate reasons for your absence.
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5. Is the Subclass 157 a permanent visa?Yes. You remain a permanent resident; only the travel facility is limited to 3 months.
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6. Can my family members apply with me?Yes. Members of your family unit may apply if they meet the eligibility criteria or if you are eligible and have lodged your own Subclass 157 application.
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7. What happens if my Subclass 157 application is refused?You may have review rights at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), depending on your circumstances and whether you applied onshore or offshore.
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8. If I get a 157 visa, can I later get a 155 visa?Yes. Once you meet the 2-year residency requirement or demonstrate substantial ties, you may apply for a Subclass 155 visa with a longer travel facility of up to 5 years.
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9. Do I need a migration agent or lawyer?It is not mandatory, but strongly recommended. Subclass 157 applications often involve complex arguments about compelling and compassionate circumstances, which must be clearly evidenced.