About Resident Return Visas

A Resident Return Visa (RRV) is a travel facility that allows current or former Australian permanent residents or certain former Australian citizens to leave and re-enter Australia as often as they wish within the validity period of the visa. This visa is essential for permanent residents or eligible former citizens who want to maintain their status as Australian permanent residents upon re-entering Australia.

Here are some key points about Resident Return Visas:

1. Eligibility: The eligibility criteria for a Resident Return Visa depend on various factors such as the applicant’s immigration status, previous residency in Australia, and ties to the country. Generally, to be eligible for an RRV, you must either be a current Australian permanent resident or a former Australian permanent resident who meets certain residency requirements.
2. Residency Requirements: To be eligible for an RRV, former Australian permanent residents must demonstrate substantial ties to Australia. This typically involves showing that you have lived in Australia for at least two out of the five years immediately before applying for the visa, or that you have substantial business, cultural, or personal ties to Australia.
3. Validity Period: The validity period of a Resident Return Visa can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and immigration history. It can range from a few months to five years. The length of the visa’s validity often depends on factors such as the applicant’s residency status and the evidence provided to support their ties to Australia.
4. Application Process: The application process for a Resident Return Visa involves submitting an application form, providing supporting documentation to demonstrate eligibility (such as evidence of residency or ties to Australia), and paying the applicable visa application fee. The application can be lodged online or through paper forms, depending on the applicant’s eligibility.
5. Travel Conditions: The Resident Return Visa may have different travel conditions attached to it, depending on the individual’s circumstances. For example, some RRVs may have a single-entry restriction, while others may allow multiple entries. It’s essential to check the travel conditions of your visa to ensure compliance.
6. Maintaining Permanent Resident Status: Holding a valid Resident Return Visa is crucial for maintaining your status as an Australian permanent resident. Without a valid RRV, permanent residents who have been absent from Australia for an extended period may risk losing their permanent residency status upon re-entry.
7. Renewal: If your Resident Return Visa is due to expire and you wish to continue travelling to and from Australia as a permanent resident, you will need to apply for a new RRV before your current visa expires. The renewal process typically involves demonstrating ongoing ties to Australia and meeting any updated eligibility requirements.
8. Citizenship Eligibility: While holding a Resident Return Visa allows you to maintain your permanent residency status, it does not automatically confer Australian citizenship. If you wish to apply for Australian citizenship, you will need to meet the eligibility criteria and go through the citizenship application process separately.

Additional Documents

In addition to the general requirements mentioned above, applicants for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) may need to provide additional documents to support their application. The specific documents required can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and immigration history. Here are some additional documents that may be required:

1. Evidence of Residency in Australia: Documentation to demonstrate your previous residency in Australia, such as rental agreements, utility bills, tax returns, or employment records. This helps establish your ties to Australia and your eligibility for an RRV.
2. Proof of Substantial Ties to Australia: If you are a former permanent resident applying for an RRV based on substantial ties to Australia, you may need to provide evidence of these ties. This could include documentation related to business ownership or employment in Australia, family connections, community involvement, or cultural activities.
3. Travel History: Documentation of your travel history, including passport stamps, visas, and entry/exit records, to show your travel patterns and periods of residency in Australia. This helps demonstrate your ongoing connection to the country.
4. Character References: Character references from individuals who can attest to your ties to Australia, your character, and your contribution to the community. These references can help support your claim for an RRV based on substantial ties to the country.
5. Financial Records: Bank statements, investment documents, or other financial records to demonstrate your financial stability and ability to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
6. Statutory Declarations: Written statements from you or others providing specific details about your ties to Australia, reasons for travel, or any other relevant information that supports your application for an RRV.
7. Proof of Employment or Business Activities: If you are relying on employment or business ties to Australia to support your RRV application, you may need to provide employment contracts, business registration documents, tax records, or other relevant documentation.
8. Family Documentation: If you are applying for an RRV as a family unit, documentation of your family relationships, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or adoption papers, may be required.
9. Legal Documents: Any legal documents relevant to your application, such as court orders, divorce decrees, or name change certificates.
10. Health and Character Checks: Depending on your circumstances and the length of time you have been outside of Australia, you may be required to undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates from countries where you have resided.