Many people look for reliable ways in which they can retain their right to return to Australia after they have gone overseas for a specific period of time. For eligible applicants, the Resident Return Visa 157 is the solution. If you plan to travel abroad and wish to keep your resident status, understanding who is eligible for this visa is crucial. Let us understand this visa type in greater detail.

What is the Resident Return Visa 157?

Resident Return Visa 157 is a temporary remedy available to permanent residents who need to leave Australia. It enables them to come back to the country without losing their resident status. It is beneficial for applicants, especially for people whose travel access on their permanent visa has already expired or will expire soon.

Eligibility for the Visa

One of the main eligibility criteria for the Resident Return Visa 157 is that the applicant must have current permanent resident status in Australia. People who previously had this status but it was revoked after they spent a long time overseas are also considered for this visa. This visa is designed to help individuals who are unable to fulfil the extended stay obligations for other return visas but still have legitimate reasons for travelling.

Physical Presence Requirement

You must have been in Australia for at least one day in the last five years before you apply. This stipulation helps ensure that your connections to the country, despite being away for a while, have been maintained. If you have not been in Australia during this period, it is unlikely that you will be eligible for this visa.

Adequate Reasons for Absence

Returnees from outside Australia who have spent a long time out of Australia face a tougher task than other applicants, as they are required to provide a good reason to explain their time out of the country. Examples such as family emergencies, medical treatment, or work-based obligations are considered valid reasons. Such applicants will need to provide supporting documentation to show how the absence was unavoidable and that their intention was not to sever ties with Australia.

Strong Ties to Australia

Strong ties to Australia weigh heavily during the eligibility assessment for the Resident Return Visa 157. Family ties, employment, or business interests prove strong ties. Continued ties, such as owning property, having business interests, or demonstrating established roots in the community, can be evidence of a genuine commitment to the country and can bolster an application.

Short Validity Period

A three-month travel facility is usually embedded in the Resident Return Visa 157. This short validity highlights the fact that it is only a temporary arrangement for emergency travel. As this visa does not give people long-term rights to return, applicants should consider their return carefully.

Unique Circumstances Considered

On some occasions, authorities may examine exceptional personal circumstances that might impact an applicant’s ability to adhere to the regular eligibility criteria. Decisions may be affected by compassionate grounds, such as having to care for a sick relative overseas. However, supporting material and explanations are required in such situations.

Application Process

The visa application process involves collecting the relevant documentation. It consists of documents explaining residency, travel history, and other paperwork that proves the applicant’s connection to Australia. Depending on individual preferences, it can be submitted either online or by post. Turnaround times are typically quick because most applicants are in urgent need of approval.

Benefits of the Visa

A holder of the Resident Return Visa 157 may travel outside Australia and return as a permanent resident without requiring an additional visa. This is especially useful for people who need to travel at short notice. Additionally, this visa offers peace of mind to those who may have exhausted their travel facility but want to keep their entitlement or right intact.

Limitations to Consider

While the Resident Return Visa 157 is a useful option, it has some limitations. Due to its short validity, it cannot be used for long periods outside Australia. Those who want to take a trip for a few months must look for other types of visas that would allow them to travel longer.

Conclusion

For permanent residents who need to leave the country for a short period of time before returning, the Resident Return Visa 157 is an easily accessible solution. However, if applicants understand where they stand with respect to the defined eligibility criteria and prepare strong supporting documents, they are likely to succeed. This visa ensures entry for people who need to travel outside Australia urgently.