Bridging and Resident Return visas
A permanent resident who leaves Australia after the travel facility has expired cannot return as a permanent resident. A Resident Return visa (155) with a 5 year travel facility is available to those present in Australia as a permanent resident or citizen for 2 of the last 5 years; those who do not meet that requirement but have substantial business, cultural, employment or personal ties of benefit to Australia receive up to 12 months, and an absence of 5 continuous years or more needs compelling reasons. Returning on a visitor visa instead can affect permanent residence entitlements and later citizenship.
What we do
- 01Prepare Resident Return visa applications on the residence requirement or on substantial ties, including after long absences.
- 02Apply for no further stay waivers, bridging visas and Bridging visa B travel permission.
When you need this
- You are a permanent resident whose travel facility has expired, or will expire while you are overseas.
- You need a bridging visa, or permission to travel while one is in force.
Who you will work with
Jing Sun
Principal Solicitor · Notary Public
Founder and Principal Solicitor with 16+ years across commercial, corporate, litigation and immigration law. Also a Notary Public.
ProfilePoints worth knowing
Bridging visas
A Bridging visa A keeps an onshore applicant lawful after the current visa ends but ceases on departure; a Bridging visa B, applied for between 2 weeks and 3 months before travel, allows a return within the travel period. A Bridging visa C holder cannot get a Bridging visa B. A Bridging visa E is for those who are unlawful or arranging to leave. Overstaying by more than 28 days may trigger a re-entry ban; if your visa has expired, seek advice promptly about your eligibility for a Bridging visa E and the possible consequences of overstaying.
How we work
- 01A first conversation in English or Mandarin about your current visa, its conditions and expiry date, and what you want to do next.
- 02Before any work starts, we confirm the scope of work and our fees in writing.
- 03We lodge in time, keep you informed, and tell you in writing what the conditions of the new visa require of you.
Common questions
I was a permanent resident but have been abroad for years. Have I lost it?
Your permanent visa may still exist, but without a valid travel facility you cannot re-enter as a permanent resident. A Resident Return visa may be granted on substantial ties, and even after an absence of 5 years or more if there are compelling reasons. Each case turns on its facts, so ask before booking travel.
This page is general information about Australian immigration law and is not legal advice. Please contact us about your own situation.
Last updated: October 2026