Do You Need an RRV if You Hold a Permanent Residency Visa?

The application process to be granted permanent residency status can be long winded and complicated, so many applicants rarely give any thought to if there are any implications should you need to travel at a later date. So do you need to consider a resident return visa?

What are Resident Return Visas?

An RRV or resident return visa is a permanent visa that allows the holder to both leave and re-enter the country without jeopardising their residency status. It is a requirement that all permanent non citizen residents of Australia hold an RRV if they wish to travel outside Australia after the first five years of their visa being issued.
There are two forms of RRV; the 155 and 157. Both these visas are essentially the same, but the 155 is valid for five years, while the 157 is a short term option valid for only three months.

Why an RRV is Needed:

When you have been granted a permanent residency visa, you may have thought that was the end of your dealings with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Your permanent visa allows you to live and work in Australia, but it can only be used as an entry visa during the first five years. After this, if you intend to leave and return it is necessary to obtain an RRV visa for permanent resident. In Australia, you can eliminate this need if you take Australian citizenship.
Even if you don’t intend to leave Australia once you have made your final move, it is possible that unforeseen circumstances can arise, forcing you to change your plans. Since eligibility for the 155 RRV requires that you have been in Australia for two years in the last five, holding an RRV can provide you with a safeguard even if you have no intention of using it. If you are unsure about whether you do need an RRV, it is a good idea to speak to a professional migration specialist to ensure that you have complete peace of mind.

If you have queries about a permanent residency visa, you should speak to us. The 888 Migration team of agents would be delighted to answer all your questions about the options for a permanent residency visa, Australia visa requirements or the application process. We have the experience and expertise to ensure that you are in compliance with all the criteria for your visa requirements.

Need Professional Help With The Application Process?

The Visa application process is difficult. It is common for self-prepared applications to get rejected. We know how important it is that your application is approved and we are here to make sure that it does.

If you would like to have your application managed by experts who can get you the best outcome, then call 888 Migration Services and talk with us about how we can help.