Immigration Law & Citizenship
Citizenship and Resident Return Visas
Resident Return visas (subclasses 155 & 157)
The Resident Return visas (subclasses 155 and 157) are crucial for Australian permanent residents who need to travel outside Australia while maintaining their permanent residency status. Subclass 155 typically allows you to leave and re-enter Australia for up to five years, provided you have lived in Australia for at least two of the past five years or can demonstrate substantial ties to the country. Subclass 157, usually valid for three months, is issued in more specific situations, such as if you have spent less time in Australia and need urgent travel. Both visas ensure that permanent residents can travel internationally without losing their residency, as long as eligibility criteria are met.
Citizenship
Becoming an Australian citizen is the final step in fully integrating into the Australian community and gaining access to important rights and privileges. Australian citizenship grants benefits such as the right to vote, apply for an Australian passport and access government services like Medicare and social security. You can also apply for certain jobs that require citizenship and have the security of knowing you cannot lose your right to live in Australia.
To be eligible, you generally need to hold permanent residency and have lived in Australia for at least four years, including a minimum of 12 months as a permanent resident, with no significant periods of absence (usually no more than 12 months total, and no more than 90 days in the final year). You must also demonstrate good character, adhering to Australian laws and pass the citizenship test, which assesses your knowledge of Australia’s history, values and responsibilities.
Acquiring citizenship enables you to take an active role in Australian society, engage in the nation's democratic processes and enjoy the full rights and responsibilities that come with being an Australian citizen.
If you need assistance with your citizenship application or Resident Return visas, the team at Edge Legal Solutions is here to help.
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