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Resident Return Visas

The Resident Return Visa (RRV) in Australia is a travel facility that allows Australian permanent residents and former citizens to maintain their status and re-enter Australia as a permanent resident after traveling abroad. It is essential for individuals who hold a permanent visa and intend to leave Australia and return after the initial five-year validity of their visa has expired or if they wish to travel after their Resident Return Visa has expired.

Here are the key details about the Resident Return Visa (RRV) in Australia:

  1. Eligibility: a. Current Australian permanent residents: Individuals who currently hold a valid Australian permanent resident visa can apply for the RRV to maintain their permanent residency status while traveling abroad. b. Former Australian citizens: People who were former Australian citizens but have lost their citizenship and now hold an eligible visa can also apply for the RRV.
     

  2. Visa Validity: a. Five-year RRV: The most common RRV is valid for a period of five years. This means that the visa holder can re-enter Australia as a permanent resident multiple times during the five-year validity period. b. One-year RRV: In some cases, individuals may be granted a one-year RRV if they do not meet the residency requirements for the five-year visa but have substantial ties to Australia. This shorter validity period allows them to re-establish their residence in Australia within a year.
     

  3. Residency Requirement: To be eligible for a five-year RRV, an applicant must meet the residency requirement. This means that they must have spent at least two years (730 days) physically present in Australia as a permanent resident or citizen in the last five years before applying for the visa. Alternatively, they must demonstrate substantial ties to Australia.
     

  4. Substantial Ties: If an applicant does not meet the residency requirement, they can still apply for a one-year RRV by proving substantial ties to Australia. Substantial ties can include significant business, cultural, employment, or personal connections to Australia.
     

  5. Multiple Entry: The RRV allows multiple entries into Australia during its validity period. Visa holders can travel in and out of Australia as many times as they wish without having to reapply for a visa each time.
     

  6. Application Process: The RRV application can be lodged online or by paper. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually based on the applicant's circumstances and supporting documentation.
     

  7. Processing Time: The processing time for RRV applications may vary depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances. It's advisable to apply well before the intended travel date to ensure a timely processing of the application.

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It's essential to note that the Resident Return Visa is not a re-entry permit or travel visa. It is a visa that maintains an individual's permanent resident status while they are outside of Australia. It's crucial to ensure that your RRV is valid before departing Australia if you plan to return as a permanent resident.

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As government policies and requirements may change, it's advisable to refer to the official Australian government website or consult with a registered migration agent for the most up-to-date information on the Resident Return Visa in Australia.

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