spence501

I've an elderly relative who's not doing too well back in the UK. It may be a matter of days unfortunately.

My PR expired earlier this year I'll need an RRV if I need to make a trip back of the worst happens. My question is do I need the visa before I leave Australia or can I leave and come back once it's granted. Had a quick look on border.gov and it says most applications are granted in 6 days.

Pollyana

You can apply offshore, or you can apply onshore and it can be granted when you are offshore.

carcajou

I believe you can also apply on-line, $300 or $400.

I would do it today.

Most are granted in less than 6 days.

Pollyana

Thats the usual way to do it now, however I think the OP was wondering whether they have to be onshore or offshore - can make a difference even to an online application. In this case though it doesn't matter.

BritInParis

Better to apply now onshore. Consider Australian citizenship on your return (cheaper than a RRV).

spence501

Thanks for your reply I was hoping this was the case 🙂

spence501

That's my plan eventually. Haven't been here long enough to qualify for citizenship yet 👍

Keekey

Hi, it would be really helpful if you could share your experience. Were you able to apply for an RRV while onshore, and then return with the grant without any hassles? Please let me know as I am facing a similar situation with my flight scheduled tomorrow and not having a grant in hand.

spence501

Hi there, as it turned out I never went back. Couldn't get enough time off work to be sure visa would be granted before I returned so I made the choice to remain in Australia unfortunately

carcajou

Surely by now though you have applied for and received your RRV?

astera

Is the RRV a formality or are they picky about any particular details?

We're considering a move back to the Gold Coast but with my wife's PR expiring in a couple of months we feel like we're dealing with a countdown timer over our heads.

Would a RRV be relatively easy to secure, allowing us some breathing space to plan things out?

carcajou

If you meet criteria (two years in-country) it is very easy to get and you can apply on-line.

Don't put it off.

astera

Unfortunately we're looking at a stay of around 14 months. Does that mean the 155 is off the table? Or does this somehow help: "We also take into account living in Australia for a substantial period of time or living overseas with an Australian citizen partner"

If the 157 is the only option then is it going to look bad if it is applied for like 2-3 years after leaving Australia?

louie

With an Aussie spouse, a one year RRV should be easy enough to secure.