Online Applications
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Online applications can be made if you:
- are currently in Australia
- have your passport details
- meet the eligibility requirements for the five (5) year Resident Return visa.
Note: You may apply online for this visa if you do not meet the eligibility requirement for you to have spent two (2) of the last five (5) years in Australia as a permanent resident. However delays will occur as your application will be processed at a regional office.
Processing times
Online applications are normally processed without delay. If you are required to attend an interview, the department will contact you in writing.
Saving online applications
You can use the 'save' function to save the information you have entered in your online application, and return to your application at a later stage. Applications that have been saved for later completion will generally be stored for 28 days. Applications not completed after this time may be deleted.
Transaction Reference Number
A Transaction Reference Number (TRN) is a unique number assigned to each online application. It is important that you record this number as it is used to:
- identify your application when you communicate with the department
- access information about the progress of your online application.
Check the progress of your online application
Use your Transaction Reference Number to check the status of your visa application at any time.
See: Check the progress of your online application
Visa decision
Your application will usually be processed straight away. If you are required to provide additional documentation, delays will result.
If your visa is approved, you will be notified by the department. Your visa and passport details are electronically recorded. However, you should obtain evidence of your visa at the nearest departmental office, in the form of an electronically-readable label issued in your valid passport.
See: Immigration Offices outside Australia
If your visa is not approved, you will be notified in writing of the reasons for the decision.
Start your online application
See: Resident Return Visa