Resident Return Visas

Permanent residence visas are usually granted with a 5-year travel permit. This means the person can leave Australia, and re-enter as many times as they like for up to 5 years. After this expires, the person will need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (known as the RRV) if they wish to travel overseas and return as a permanent resident. Some people may already be overseas when their permanent residence 5-year travel permit expires, and will need to apply for an RRV to return to Australia.

All people who used to be permanent residents can apply to have their PR reinstated through the RRV, even if you haven't been to Australia for many years. You will need to demonstrate significant business, employment, personal and/or cultural ties with Australia, which are of benefit to Australia. You may also need to justify any reasons for prolonged absences from Australia.

We have assisted many satisfied clients to reinstate their former Australian permanent residence status through the RRV. Contact us to find out how we can help you.

New Zealand Citizens

New Zealand citizens who traveled to Australia prior to September 1994 may have been considered permanent residents upon arrival. This means that those people may be able to apply to have their PR status reinstated. Even if you only came for a short visit, you too may be eligible for an RRV, which is a permanent visa, simply by way of having been to Australia for a holiday before September 1994. Once you get an RRV, you may be able to use this to apply for Australian citizenship, or sponsor other family and children. This is especially significant for New Zealand citizens living in Australia who want their children to be able to access higher education loans and support from the federal government.