Australian Former Resident Visas
The Australian Former Resident Visas are designed for individuals who were previously permanent residents or long-term residents of Australia and wish to return to the country. These visas provide a pathway for former residents to resume their lives in Australia, either as permanent residents or through other special categories.
Australian Former Resident Visas offer a valuable opportunity for individuals who have previously lived in Australia as permanent residents or who have served in the Australian Defence Force to return and re-establish their lives in the country.
These visas recognise the ties and contributions of former residents, providing them with a pathway back to Australia and a chance to continue contributing to its society and economy.
Each type of visitor visa comes with its own eligibility requirements and conditions.
For personalised advice and assistance, Book an appointment with Marion Le Consultancy.
Below is a detailed overview of the different types of Australian Former Resident Visas:
Former Resident Visa - Subclass 151
Purpose: The Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151) allows former Australian permanent residents or certain people who served in the Australian Defence Force to return to Australia as permanent residents.
Eligibility:
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Former Permanent Residents: Must have spent at least 9 years in total as a permanent resident before the age of 18 and have substantial ties to Australia.
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Australian Defence Force Members: Must have completed at least three months of service before January 19, 1981.
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Must not have been an unlawful non-citizen since last leaving Australia.
Duration: Permanent residency.
Work Rights: Full work rights in Australia.
Study Rights: Access to education and training opportunities similar to those available to other permanent residents.
Benefits:
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Access to Medicare and social security benefits.
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Ability to sponsor eligible family members for Australian visas.
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Eligibility for Australian citizenship after meeting residence requirements.
Pathway: Provides a pathway to Australian citizenship after meeting residency and character requirements.
Processing Time: Varies based on individual circumstances and complexity of the application.
Key Considerations
Eligibility Requirements: Each former resident visa has specific eligibility criteria that must be met, including residency history, ties to Australia, or defence service. It’s crucial to thoroughly understand and provide evidence for these requirements when applying.
Ties to Australia: Demonstrating substantial ties to Australia can be critical, especially for those who have not met residency requirements. This can include business, cultural, employment, or personal ties that show a genuine commitment to living in Australia.
Residency and Travel: The length of time spent outside Australia can impact eligibility and the type of visa granted. Understanding the residency and travel requirements is essential for maintaining permanent residency status.
Pathways to Citizenship: Former resident visas often provide a pathway to Australian citizenship, which may require meeting additional residency, character, and language requirements.
Financial Obligations: Visa application fees and potential costs related to gathering required documentation should be considered. Financial preparedness is essential for a smooth application process.
Legal Assistance: Given the complexity of visa applications and the importance of meeting specific criteria, consulting with a registered migration agent or legal professional can provide valuable guidance and increase the likelihood of a successful application.
For personalised advice and assistance, Book an appointment with Marion Le Consultancy.