155 Visa

Being an Australian permanent resident doesn’t always mean you can come and go freely. If you’ve spent some time overseas, returning to Australia may not be as simple as booking a flight. Your permanent resident status might still be valid, but your travel rights can expire quietly in the background.

So, what is a subclass 155 visa, and why does it matter? This visa allows eligible permanent residents to return to Australia lawfully after time abroad when their travel facility has expired. It doesn’t grant permanent residency for the first time. Instead, it restores or extends your ability to travel in and out of Australia so you can pick up where you left off.

This distinction often confuses people. Permanent residence and travel facilities are linked, but they’re not the same thing. When a travel facility expires, your permanent resident status doesn’t automatically end. What you lose is the ability to leave and re-enter Australia freely. The Subclass 155 visa fills that gap.

Who Can Apply for a Resident Return Visa Subclass 155

If your travel facility expires while you’re outside Australia, you may need to apply for a Resident Return Visa before you can return.

This visa is intended for people who already have established legal or personal connections to Australia. In general, it may be suitable for:

• Current Australian permanent residents
• Some former Australian citizens who lost or renounced their citizenship
• People applying either inside or outside Australia

Eligibility for Visa Subclass 155: The Residence Test and Ties Evidence

Eligibility is assessed based on your history with Australia. There are two main ways to qualify.

Residence Requirement

Some applicants meet a residence requirement based on time spent living in Australia as a permanent resident. This looks at your physical presence in Australia over a defined period before you apply. Travel dates matter, and records must line up.

Substantial Ties to Australia

If you don’t meet the residence requirement, you may still qualify by showing substantial ties to Australia that benefit the country. These ties fall into four categories:

• Business ties, such as owning or operating a business connected to Australia
• Employment ties, including ongoing or recent work, sometimes linked to employer-sponsored options like the 186 Visa Employer Nomination Scheme
• Cultural ties, such as long-term involvement in recognised Australian organisations
• Personal ties, including close family members who live permanently in Australia

Evidence is critical here. Clear, well-organised documents make a real difference.

How to Apply for the Subclass 155 Visa (Step-by-Step)

Applications are lodged through the Department of Home Affairs. While the process is online, preparation matters more than speed. A typical application involves:

• Confirming your eligibility before you apply
• Gathering documents that support your residence history or ties
• Lodging the application through the official system, which is through an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website
• Responding promptly if further information is requested

155 Visa Processing Time

Processing times can vary from one application to another. Factors that often affect timing include:

• How complete the application is
• How complex your travel or residence history may be
• whether extra checks are required

The Department of Home Affairs publishes processing time guidance online. These timeframes are indicative only and not guaranteed, so it’s important to check the official tool before you apply.

155 Visa Fee

As of January 2026, the estimated price starts from AUD 490 to apply online for the Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155), according to the official Visa Pricing Estimator. Visa application charges are subject to change, and applicants should always check the Department of Home Affairs website before lodging their application.

This does not include fees for visa agents to lodge your application.

Difference Between 155 and 157 Visa

Both visas are types of Resident Return Visas, and the Department of Home Affairs considers both subclasses when assessing an application. Which one is granted depends on your circumstances.

In simple terms:

• Subclass 155 is usually granted where you meet residence requirements or can show strong, ongoing ties to Australia. It often allows for a longer travel facility.
  
• Subclass 157 may be granted where you do not meet the main requirements for the 155 visa, but still have acceptable ties or reasons related to Australia. It is generally more limited.

The decision is based on factors such as your time spent in Australia and the strength of your ties.

How Our Experts Can Help

Trying to return to Australia as a permanent resident can feel stressful when rules are unclear or time is tight. Getting proper advice early helps avoid refusals and delays.

The experts at IMMagine Immigration provide clear, practical guidance on return visas like the 155 visa, helping permanent residents protect their status and find the right path back to Australia.

Explore other guides:

• Australia – Cheaper To Live Than New Zealand?
• Family Visas Australia
• 10 Benefits of Australian PR