What is a Subclass 155 Resident Return Visa?
Permanent residency is a status that allows you to remain in Australia indefinitely. However, the permanent visa does actually expire 5 years from the date of grant.
In order to maintain permanent residency status while travelling in and out of Australia, you would need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV).
The RRV can be granted for different periods depending on the application pathway:
- Five-year RRV – If you have been physically present in Australia as a permanent resident for a total of two years in the five years before applying.
- One-Year RRV – If you have been physically present in Australia as a permanent resident for less than two years in the five years before applying, but have substantial ties to Australia
You can apply from inside Australia or outside Australia, however, you may be subject to additional criteria depending on location.
How can I become an Australian Citizen?
You can become an Australian citizen by birth, descent, or conferral. Acquiring Australian citizenship brings numerous advantages, such as voting rights, access to government services and welfare, eligibility for an Australian passport, expanded job prospects, and unrestricted ability to apply for home loans and own property.
Australian citizenship by birth:
- If you are born in Australia and at least one of your parents are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you become an Australian citizen at birth.
Australian citizenship by descent:
- If you are the child of an Australian citizen and you were born outside of Australia on or after 26 January 1949, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship by descent.
Australian citizenship by conferral:
To be eligible you must be a current permanent resident of Australia and meet the residence requirements* as follows:
- Have been physically present in Australia for at least four years, including at least one year as a permanent resident.
- Must not have travelled outside of Australia for more than 12 months in the last four years
- Have spent no more than 90 days outside Australia in the 12 months before you apply
*Exemptions to the residence requirements may apply to spouses/partners of Australian Citizens living overseas, defence force personnel, and certain high-calibre sportspeople.
New Zealanders and Australian Citizenship
New Zealand citizens who have been living in Australia for a minimum of four years are able to directly apply for Australian citizenship, eliminating the requirement to obtain a permanent visa beforehand.
Since 1 July 2023, all New Zealand citizens holding an SCV (Subclass 444) have been regarded as permanent residents for citizenship purposes only. They are not deemed to be permanent residents for any other purpose, including the ability to sponsor for a family visa (unless an Eligible New Zealand Citizen).
New Zealand citizens granted an SCV before July 1, 2022 are deemed to be permanent residents for citizenship purposes from 1 July 2022.
New Zealand citizens granted an SCV for the first time on or after July 1, 2022, will be considered permanent residents for citizenship purposes from the date of their Subclass 444 grant.
New Zealand citizens applying for Australian Citizenship must meet the same requirements for residence and good character as other Citizenship applicants. Police clearances will be requested for all applicants over the age of 16.
Note that SCV Subclass 444 visas are granted to New Zealand Citizens at the Australian border, upon entry.
Born in Australia to New Zealand Citizen Parents?
You may be an Australian citizen already if you were born in Australia to New Zealand citizen parents. There are many different rules that apply. Please contact one of our advisers if you would like to discuss your eligibility.
How much does a Resident Return Visa or Citizenship cost?
As of 1 July 2025, the government application fees are as follows:
Resident Return Visa Application – Each Applicant – $490
Citizenship by Conferral Application – Applicant 18-59 years of age – $575
Citizenship by Conferral Application – Applicant 60+ years of age – $350
Citizenship by Conferral Application – Child under 16 included with Parent – $nil
Citizenship by Descent Application – Main Applicant – $370
Citizenship by Descent Application – Additional Sibling – $150
How long will a Resident Return Visa or Citizenship take to process?
As of 31 July 2025, Immigration advises:
| Application Type | 50% processed within | 90% processed within |
| 155 Resident Return | 1 day | 24 days |
| Citizenship by Conferral | 8 months* | 10 months* |
| Citizenship by Descent | 4 months | 6 months |
*Processing time from lodgement until approval. There is additional waiting time for ceremony.
Why Choose AVIE for Immigration Services?
Personalized Guidance – Every migration journey is unique, and we provide tailored advice to match your circumstances and goals.
Expert Problem-Solving – Our team has extensive experience handling complex visa situations and finding tailored solutions to meet client needs.
Dedicated Support – We intentionally cap our agents’ caseloads to ensure you receive the time, care, and dedication you deserve. You’re never just a number with us.
Avoid Mistakes – Avoid costly delays and reapplications—our expertise ensures visa applications are done right the first time.
Stress-Free Process – We handle the complexities of visa applications, so you can focus on planning your new life in Australia.
FAQs
Can I still get a RRV if my permanent visa has expired?
Yes. Applicants who no longer hold a valid permanent visa can apply for a RRV if additional criteria are met. These criteria relate to time spent both inside and outside Australia, reasons for travelling overseas, and any urgent need to return to Australia.
What happens if I am outside Australia when my permanent visa expires?
You will no longer be a permanent resident. The visa allows you to remain in Australia forever, but the travel authority is limited to the validity of the visa.
To regain permanent residency status, you must apply for and be granted a Resident Return Visa.
How do I apply for Australian citizenship?
The majority of citizenship applications are lodged online, though this will change if trying to claim an exemption.
Can I apply for Australian Citizenship if my permanent visa has expired?
Applicants for Australian Citizenship must be permanent residents at the time of application and the time of decision.
If the applicant remains in Australia after the permanent visa expires, then they are still considered ‘permanent residents’.
If they travel overseas after the visa expires, or are outside Australia when the visa expires, they are no longer permanent residents.