- info@elixirgroup.com.au
Call Now
+61 481 312 129
+61 481 312 129
The Resident Return Visa SC 157 is a critical visa option for Australian permanent residents, former permanent residents, or citizens who need to leave and return to Australia while maintaining their residency status. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding benefits, eligibility criteria, costs, processing time, and conditions of Resident Return Visa SC 157.
The Resident Return Visa Subclass 157 allows eligible individuals to re-enter Australia as a permanent resident. It is particularly useful for those who need to travel overseas but do not meet the requirements for a longer-term Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155).
This visa provides short-term travel rights to maintain your residency status while fulfilling obligations or addressing personal needs abroad.
Re-Entry to Australia: Ensures that you can return to Australia as a permanent resident after traveling overseas.
Maintained Residency Status: Protects your ability to live and work in Australia as a permanent resident.
Short-Term Solution: Offers a quick solution for individuals needing temporary travel rights while working toward a longer-term visa.
Flexibility: Provides flexibility for those who cannot meet the longer-term travel requirements of other resident return visas.
To qualify for the Subclass 157 Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Permanent Residency Status: Be an Australian permanent resident or a former permanent resident who has not become a citizen.
Valid Reason for Travel: Demonstrate compelling reasons for leaving and returning to Australia.
Time Spent in Australia: Have spent at least one day in the last five years in Australia as a permanent resident or citizen.
Character Requirements: Meet Australia’s character requirements, including no significant criminal record.
The processing time for the Resident Return Visa SC 157 can vary based on individual circumstances.
To ensure a smooth process, submit all necessary documents and provide accurate information in your application.
Applying for the Resident Return Visa SC 157 involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful application. Below is a detailed guide to the process:
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the SC 157 visa, including:
👉 Being an Australian permanent resident, former permanent resident, or former Australian citizen.
👉 Having compelling reasons for needing to travel and return to Australia.
👉 Meeting the character requirements.
Prepare all necessary documents to support your application. These may include:
Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, or national ID card.
Evidence of Permanent Residency: Documents showing your permanent resident status or proof of former Australian citizenship.
Travel Justification: Supporting documents explaining the reasons for your travel, such as medical reports, work-related evidence, or family commitments.
Character Documents: Police clearance certificates if required.
You can submit your application online or via paper form through the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Online Application:
👉 Create an account or log in to your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
👉 Complete the online form and upload all required documents.
👉 Pay the visa application fee (currently AUD 485, subject to change).
Paper Application (if applicable):
👉 Complete Form 1085 (Resident Return Visa Application).
👉 Attach all supporting documents and submit them by mail or in person to the nearest Australian immigration office.
The processing time for the SC 157 visa is usually 1–3 weeks, depending on individual circumstances. During this period:
👉 Monitor your ImmiAccount for updates or additional document requests.
👉 Respond promptly to any inquiries from the Department of Home Affairs to avoid delays.
Once your application is processed, you will be notified of the decision via email or postal mail. If your visa is approved:
👉 You will receive details of the visa grant, including its validity and travel conditions.
👉 Ensure you travel within the validity period to maintain your residency status.
If your application is denied, the notification will include the reasons for refusal and information on whether you can appeal the decision.
The cost of applying for the Resident Return Visa SC 157 is:
Ensure you check the latest fee details on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website before applying.
Validity Period: The SC 157 visa is generally valid for three months from the date of grant.
Travel Obligations: You must return to Australia within the validity period to maintain your permanent resident status.
Compliance with Australian Laws: While holding this visa, you must comply with all Australian laws, including those related to character and conduct.
The Resident Return Visa SC 157 is an essential option for those needing to travel temporarily while maintaining their Australian residency. With its short-term travel rights, the SC 157 visa provides flexibility for individuals addressing urgent travel needs or waiting to qualify for a longer-term solution.
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and submit a complete application to avoid delays. If you’re ready to apply, begin your journey today and maintain your ties to Australia as a permanent resident.
