Resident Return visa (subclasses 155 and 157) — requirements, costs & how to apply

Who is eligible

Costs

Duration & renewal

Initial stay: 60 months. Citizenship possible after 4 years.

Documents

• Current passport photo page
• National identity card (if applicable)
• Proof of change of name (if applicable)
• Old expired passport(s) with permanent residency evidence (if applicable)
• Certificate of Evidence of Resident Status (if issued before 1 June 2016)
• Permanent visa or entry permit documentation (if issued before or on arrival in Australia)
• Historical documentation from National Archives of Australia (if applicable)
• Documents showing substantial ties (business, cultural, employment, or personal)
• Compelling reasons for absence (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate (for married couples applying as family unit)
• Evidence of registered relationship or 12-month de facto relationship (for de facto couples)
• Evidence of genuine and continuing relationship (joint bank statements, joint leases, etc.)
• Birth certificates or family book for children under 18
• Adoption paper (if applicable)

Who can apply

Open to all nationalities.

How to apply

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
2. Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/resident-return-visa-155-157.
3. Typical processing: ~5 days.