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Resident Return Visa

Renew your travel rights to Australia with expert guidance tailored to your residency history.

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Subclass 157
Overview

Resident Return Visa Subclass 157

Cost: From AUD 490

Short-Term Travel Facility for Permanent Residents

The Subclass 157 Resident Return Visa is designed for permanent residents or former permanent residents who need short-term travel access to return to Australia.

Suitable When Residence Requirements Are Not Met

This visa is generally used when applicants do not meet the residence requirements for a longer Resident Return Visa but still need to travel to Australia as a permanent resident.

Single or Limited Travel Access

Subclass 157 provides a short travel facility, allowing entry to Australia within a limited timeframe rather than ongoing long-term travel flexibility.

Permanent Resident Status Continues

Although the travel facility is short, your permanent resident status remains unchanged, allowing you to live in Australia once you return.

Used in Specific Circumstances

This visa is intended for specific situations, such as urgent travel needs or where time spent in Australia has been limited.

Eligibility

Resident Return Visa Subclass 157

Criteria
Description
Current or Former Permanent Resident

You must be an Australian permanent resident or a former permanent resident.

Time Spent in Australia

You must have spent at least a limited period living in Australia as a permanent resident.

Compelling Reasons for Absence

You must demonstrate compelling and compassionate reasons for any continuous absence from Australia.

Compliance With Visa Conditions

You must have complied with the conditions of your previous visas while in Australia.

No Adverse Information

There must be no adverse information known to the Department that would affect the grant of the visa.

Location at Time of Application

You can apply for the Subclass 157 visa either inside or outside Australia.

Testimonials

We’re in Our Clients’ Hearts

Excellence speaks for itself—our clients’ emotions tell the story.

I would give 5 stars to Knowbal's team! Special thanks to Rishav- he has a good knowledge and listens patiently to every concern and provides very good solutions. Highly recommended !!!! 🎉💯

Apoorva Gupta

In-depth knowledge about immigration laws and regulations that made my mother's visa application processed and approved within a week. Highly recommended

Vikram Singh

Nilesh and Nirav proved to be true immigration experts, turning the Subsequent Entrant visa 491 process for a sister-in-law into a genuinely smooth and delightful experience. Their exceptional knowledge and unwavering support made them the best possible agents to have in your corner.

Shivam Jha
Assistant Medical Consultant

Knowbal Migration provided exceptional support from student visa to Subclass 190 PR approval. Rishav was particularly outstanding — proactive, detail-oriented, and consistently followed up to ensure timelines were met. The team also efficiently handled a parents' visitor visa. A genuinely stress-free experience, highly recommended for reliable migration guidance.

Rainita Gurjar
Developer Programmer

Knowbal Migration and Education played a pivotal role in securing a 190 PR in Adelaide. Dhruv deserves special recognition for his thorough guidance and consistent support from start to finish, making the entire visa process smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Highly recommended.

Deep Sath
Welder

Knowbal Migration delivered outstanding results for our family — securing a parents' visitor visa in just two days and the 191 visa within six months. Their highly skilled team was always responsive and supportive. Special thanks to Nirav Bhai for exceptional guidance throughout.

Ravi Shah
Pharmacy Assistant

After a 17-year migration journey, Knowbal delivered the breakthrough Prarthit had long sought. Nileshbhai's compassion, expertise, and genuine commitment to clients' dreams — not just fees — sets Knowbal apart. The team goes well above and beyond, earning lifelong gratitude from those they serve.

Prarthit Pandit
Truck Driver

Nilesh, Pragat, Trushen, and the entire Knowbal team provided genuinely trustworthy and wholehearted support throughout the 190 visa process. Their prompt actions, constant motivation, and dedication were truly appreciated. For anyone seeking a reliable migration agent, Knowbal is a team worth trusting completely.

V SRI
Electrical Engineer

Amazing experience with Knowbal Migration for visitor and 191 visa applications. Quick results, including a parents' visa in just 2 days. Skilled and responsive team. Special thanks to Niravbhai for excellent support.

Ravi Shah

Knowbal Migration delivered an exceptional student visa experience from start to finish. Their professionalism, expertise, and genuine dedication were evident throughout, with the team ensuring all documents were in order and deadlines were met. Their in-depth knowledge of visa regulations made the process confident and seamless.

Kaval Sandhu
Chef

Knowbal Migration once again delivered excellent results — assisting with a 482 visa previously and now a successful JRP positive skill assessment. The expertise of Nilesh, Mani Raj, Rishav, and Trushen truly stands out. Finding such dedicated and knowledgeable professionals is rare. Wholeheartedly recommended.

Luther Navleen
Chef

After a student visa refusal, Knowbal Migration stepped in with confidence and a clear plan. Within just one month, their fast-track ART process and dedicated support resulted in a successful approval — something once thought impossible. Their professionalism and care genuinely changed this family's lives.

Patel Manthan
QC Executive

Rishavbhai and the Knowbal Group provided exemplary support throughout the 186 PR visa process. Professional, knowledgeable, and patient, Rishav explained every step clearly, ensured accurate documentation, and made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for dependable and honest migration assistance.

Parth Patel
Mechanical Engineer

Highly recommend Knowbal Migration for visa services. Nileshbhai and Niravbhai provided excellent guidance and support for my 482 visa. The team was responsive, patient, and helped me through every step successfully.

Smit Patel

Kunalbhai and Niravbhai at Knowbal Migration provided exceptional support throughout the 482 visa process. They communicated clearly, handled everything professionally, and were consistently available to help with any concerns. Their guidance made what could have been a stressful experience genuinely smooth and manageable. Highly recommended.

Pareshkumar Dixit
Field Technician

The 482 visa was granted thanks to the outstanding support of Sushanti and Shweta at Knowbal Migration. They were professional, approachable, and consistently available to address queries. Their guidance made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for anyone needing migration assistance.

Jay Patel
Chef

Knowbal Migration is a highly recommended immigration consultant known for their hardworking, thorough approach. The team addresses every query with care and expertise, ensuring clients are well-informed throughout the process. Their comprehensive knowledge and genuine dedication make them a standout choice for anyone seeking migration support.

Rainita Gurjar
Developer Programmer

The student visa process with Knowbal Migration was a wonderful experience, thanks largely to Trushen Bhatt's prompt and professional approach. He patiently answered every query, ensuring confidence and clarity throughout. Their reliable and efficient service comes highly recommended for anyone navigating migration.

Nisari Ramachandran
Console Operator

Despite a high-risk situation involving a recent course change and new marriage, Knowbal Migration provided thorough support and honest guidance. With special assistance from Mittal ma'am, both visas were granted in just two days. A reliable team delivering straightforward and stress-free migration outcomes.

Sunny Patel
Electrical Engineer

Trushenbhai and Shubhambhai at Knowbal provided outstanding support throughout a master's admission process, helping secure enrolment with maximum subject credits transferred from prior studies. Their detailed guidance on university selection, credit evaluation, and documentation requirements saved both time and tuition costs. Truly exceptional service.

Parth Patel

Knowbal Migration provided helpful and professional guidance for a course change, with staff who were consistently polite and well-informed. Trushen Sir's sound advice on course-related matters stood out in particular. A trustworthy team offering top-notch migration services that comes highly recommended.

Vishvas Chaudhari

Knowbal Migration provided outstanding guidance spanning a student visa, skill assessment, Tasmania state nomination, and 491 visa. Nilesh Bhai and Nirav Bhai are exceptionally professional and willing to go the extra mile, handling even complex requests like AFP S56 and medical examinations with remarkable efficiency.

Haresh Chaudhari

Aleeha and Nirav at Knowbal Migration demonstrated outstanding guidance, persistence, and professionalism in securing a Visitor Visa Family Stream for a sister, successfully navigating earlier difficulties to achieve the outcome. Their dedication and genuine care throughout the process were truly appreciated.

Sanjay Vaswani
Senior Executive People Operations

Knowbal Migration's spouse visa services were handled with patience, consistency, and genuine commitment throughout. Referred by a trusted family friend, the experience exceeded expectations in every way. Their professionalism and dedication to each case embody exactly what their name implies — they are truly knowledgeable.

Sarah Qamar
Helping Hand

Very good experience with Knowbal Migration. Nirav and Aleeha provided great support throughout my visa process and helped achieve a positive outcome. Thank you to the team for their assistance.

Parth Chauhan

After a failed application with another agency, Knowbal Group helped secure admission to the University of Melbourne's 2023 intake for a Master of Nursing Science — a result described as unbelievable. Trushenbhai and Kajalmam's efficiency and sound counsel made what seemed impossible become a reality.

Jignya Chaudhary

Knowbal Migration's support during the spouse visa process was exceptional from start to finish. Trushenbhai and his team handled everything efficiently, ensuring the visa was approved without a single issue. Their reliability and professionalism make them a highly recommended choice for any migration matter.

Sneha Chaudhary
Assistant Teacher

Knowbal Migration provided clear, professional support throughout both the visa process and skills assessment. The team's guidance with documentation was thorough, ensuring everything proceeded smoothly and without unnecessary stress. Their timely responses and consistent professionalism are greatly appreciated and come with a strong recommendation.

Divya Pant
Administrative Accounts Support Officer

Knowbal Migration's expertise and unwavering dedication made a significant difference throughout the wife's visa journey, even when paperwork confusion arose. Trushen Bhai's patience and clear explanations were instrumental in navigating the process successfully. Their professionalism and attention to detail are deeply appreciated and unreservedly recommended.

HR Patel
Telecommunications Network Planner

Trushen Bhai at Knowbal Migration and Education provided remarkable support throughout the wife's visa process — offering clear guidance, answering every question, and ensuring all documentation was submitted correctly. His expertise and dedication turned what could have been a stressful journey into a smooth and successful experience.

Patel Vraj

Working with Kunalbhai from Knowbal Migration on an ART application was a thoroughly positive experience. He was diligent, kept clients well-informed throughout, and made the overall process much more manageable. The outcome was successful, and Knowbal is strongly recommended for ART or any migration challenge.

Mansi Patel
QC Executive

Knowbal Migration, and Dhruv in particular, delivered outstanding service throughout the ACS skill assessment process. Dhruv's dedication was exceptional — guiding clients at every stage, even during holidays, with professionalism and genuine attention to detail. Their commitment to understanding unique circumstances made all the difference.

Rainita Gurjar
Developer Programmer

Trushen Bhatt and Knowbal Education provided outstanding, transparent support throughout the wife's visa process. His professionalism, in-depth knowledge, and patient guidance made every step smooth and stress-free. All documentation was handled with precision, ensuring the process felt organized and efficient. Genuinely recommended for anyone needing visa assistance.

Kishan Pathar
QA Engineer

Dhruv Sir and the Knowbal Migration team provided truly outstanding support throughout the wife's skills assessment process. Their expert advice, prompt responses, and step-by-step guidance made what could have been a complex experience remarkably smooth and stress-free. Deeply grateful for their dedication and professionalism.

Yatin Patel
Metal Fabricator

Exceptional support from Niravbhai and Aleeha for our partner visa. Professional, responsive, and detail-oriented throughout the process. Their clear communication made everything stress-free. Highly recommend Knowbal Migration.

Jinsvi Chaudhari

Great experience with Knowbal Migration for my in-laws' visitor visa. Niravbhai, Aleeha, and Hiralben handled everything professionally, from documentation to queries. Smooth process and excellent support throughout. Highly recommend their services.

Shivani Shah

Knowbal Migration and Education delivered an excellent TR 485 visa experience, with Chakshu standing out for her exceptional professionalism and patient guidance at every stage. Supported by Rishav and the team, all documents were prepared accurately and submitted on time, making the process smooth and stress-free.

Manisha Kumari

Knowbal Consultants provided wonderful guidance throughout a Science Technician skills assessment with VETASSESS, resulting in a positive outcome. Rishav Verma and Dhruv Goswami were especially supportive, professional, and consistently available to answer questions. Their quick turnaround and excellent customer service made for an outstanding overall experience.

Muhammed Asad Tahir
Lab Technician

Nilesh Bhai, Trushen Bhai, and Pragat Bhai delivered exceptional support across the 485 visa, skill assessment, state nomination, and 491 visa grant. Knowbal truly embodies its name — their knowledge is optimal and their dedication is noble. An unreserved and enthusiastic recommendation.

Vikram Chaudhary
Marketing Specialist

Kunal and Rishav at Knowbal Migration were both friendly and highly efficient in securing a positive skills assessment. Their approachable manner and expertise left a strong impression. For anyone seeking experienced and knowledgeable support across all types of visa applications, Knowbal Migration is the best choice.

Wilfred Lavida
Restaurant Manager

Thanks to Knowbal Migration's expertise and dedicated support, a Parent's Visitor visa was granted in just four days — a result that made a significant difference for the entire family. Their commitment to client success is truly commendable, and their services are highly recommended.

Sharad Chaudhary

Kunal Bhai and the Knowbal team provided exceptional support throughout both the primary 485 visa and a husband's subsequent 485 application, both successfully approved. Their patience, honesty, and genuine care during stressful moments made the family feel truly safe in experienced, capable hands.

Masum Chaudhary
Lab Technician

Knowbal Migration provided outstanding support for my parents' visitor visa. Niral Modi, Aleeha, and Hiralben were professional, patient, and thorough. Their clear communication and attention to detail ensured a smooth visa approval. Highly recommend their reliable migration services.

Smit Patel

Knowbal Migration and Education played a key role in getting the 485 visa approved. Don and Dhruv handled the application with great care and professionalism, making the entire process straightforward and easy to navigate. Their helpfulness and efficiency come very highly recommended.

Kavindu De Alwis
Primary School Teacher

Dhruv Goswami of Knowbal Group provided extremely helpful and expert advice for a highly critical EA degree assessment application. His guidance throughout the process was invaluable, demonstrating both the depth of knowledge and the genuine care that sets Knowbal Group apart in the migration industry.

Nikunj Kaswala
How to apply

The Knowbal Visa Application Process

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Subclass 157 and Subclass 155?

Subclass 157 is a short-term Resident Return Visa, generally granted when applicants do not qualify for a longer travel facility under Subclass 155. It is intended for limited or urgent travel needs, whereas Subclass 155 usually offers longer and more flexible travel rights.

How long can I travel on a Subclass 157 visa?

Subclass 157 provides a short travel facility, allowing you to enter Australia within a limited timeframe. It does not provide long-term or multiple-year travel rights like Subclass 155, making it suitable for temporary or immediate return needs.

Can I apply for Subclass 157 while I am overseas?

Yes, you can apply for a Subclass 157 Resident Return Visa either inside or outside Australia. Many applicants apply while overseas so they can lawfully return to Australia as permanent residents

Do I lose my permanent residency if I only qualify for Subclass 157?

No. Being granted a Subclass 157 visa does not cancel your permanent resident status. It only affects your travel facility, allowing you to return to Australia as a permanent resident.

What are considered compelling reasons for absence from Australia?

Compelling reasons may include circumstances beyond your control that prevented you from returning to Australia earlier. These are assessed on a case-by-case basis and must be clearly explained and supported in your application.

Can Subclass 157 be used for long-term travel plans?

No. Subclass 157 is not designed for long-term or repeated international travel. If you require ongoing travel flexibility, you may need to apply for a Subclass 155 when eligible.

Can a Subclass 157 visa application be refused?

Yes, a Subclass 157 application can be refused if eligibility requirements are not met, compelling reasons are not adequately demonstrated, or adverse information exists. Submitting a complete and well-supported application is essential.

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