Resident Return Visa (Subclass 157)

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157 Visa

What is the 157 Resident Return Visa?

The 157 visa is a type of Resident Return visa (RRV) for current or former Australian permanent residents, and some former citizens, who need to travel overseas but do not meet the full residence requirement for the 155 visa. The 157 visa lets you re-enter Australia as a permanent resident for up to 3 months.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply if you:

Are a current or former Australian permanent resident, or a former citizen
Have spent at least 1 day in Australia in the last 5 years as a permanent resident or citizen
Have a compelling and compassionate reason for needing to leave Australia

What does the 157 visa allow you to do?

Leave and re-enter Australia as a permanent resident within a 3-month window
Maintain your PR status for urgent or compassionate travel

Main requirements

You have spent at least 1 day in Australia as a permanent resident or citizen in the last 5 years
You have a valid reason for needing to leave Australia (compassionate or compelling circumstances)
You do not meet the full 2-year residence requirement for a 155 visa

How to apply

Check eligibility: Make sure you meet the minimum stay and reason requirements.
Gather documents: Passport, previous visas, evidence of time spent in Australia, and documents supporting your travel reason.
Apply online: Lodge your application through the Department of Home Affairs website.
Wait for a decision: Most are processed quickly if all documents are provided.

155 vs 157 Visa – What’s the Difference?

Feature	155 Visa	157 Visa
Stay period	Up to 5 years	Up to 3 months
Time spent in Australia	2 years in 5 years	1 day in 5 years
Travel reason needed	No	Yes (compelling/compassionate)
Usual processing speed	Fast	Fast

Why choose Jade Immigration Lawyers?

Complex RRV advice – Expertise in urgent and substantial ties cases.
Clear process – Guidance on gathering evidence and preparing strong applications.
Fixed fees – Transparent, competitive pricing.

Need expert help?

Book a 30-minute consultation with Jade Immigration Lawyers for $250. If you proceed with us, your consultation fee will be credited towards your legal fees. We assist clients Australia-wide and internationally.

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FAQ

Get answers to frequently asked questions about our immigration services and processes. For additional assistance, please reach out to us.

Who should apply for the 157 visa?

If you have not spent 2 years in Australia in the last 5 years but have spent at least 1 day and need to travel for compelling reasons, you may qualify for the 157 visa.

What are examples of compelling or compassionate reasons?

Examples include family emergencies, urgent business needs, or critical personal situations.

How long can I stay outside Australia with a 157 visa?

Up to 3 months. You must return to Australia within this period.

Can I apply for another RRV after returning on a 157 visa?

Yes. Once back in Australia, you may be eligible to apply for a 155 visa if you meet the requirements.

Can my family apply with me?

Each family member must lodge a separate application.