Only Australian citizens have an automatic right of entry to Australia. If you hold a permanent visa you have the right to remain in Australia indefinitely, however if you choose to travel outside Australia, you must ensure you have authority to return. Generally a permanent visa will allow the holder to travel into Australia for up to five years from the date of grant.
The Resident Return visa (subclass 155) is a permanent visa for current or former Australian permanent residents and former Australian citizens. This visa will allow you to maintain or regain your status as an Australian permanent resident.
If you want to return to Australia after your current visa expires, you should apply for a visa before you leave Australia.
Who is this visa for?
This visa is for you if the travel validity period of your permanent visa has expired or is about to expire.
If you do not meet the requirements for a Five Year Resident Return visa (subclass 155), your application will be assessed against the criteria for a Three Month Resident Return visa (subclass 157).
You must also meet one of the following eligibility requirements.
Three months You must:
+ have spent at least one day in the last five years lawfully in Australia
+ have spent less than two years in the last five years in Australia
+ have been a permanent resident or an Australian citizen for the entire period spent in Australia
provide evidence that there is a compelling and compassionate reason for your departure.
+ If you have been outside Australia for more than three continuous months immediately before making the application, you must also show that there is a compelling and compassionate reason for the absence.