Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151)
The Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151) is a permanent visa that allows certain former Australian permanent residents and former Australian citizens to return to Australia and live permanently.
Although the Subclass 151 visa is a relatively uncommon visa pathway, it may provide an important opportunity for eligible individuals who have previously lived in Australia and wish to re-establish their lives here.
- Permanent visa pathway
- For eligible former Australian residents
- Available in limited circumstances
- Allows permanent residence in Australia
- May assist eligible former Australian citizens and permanent residents
What is the Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151)?
The Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151) is a permanent visa designed for certain people who previously held Australian permanent residence or Australian citizenship and who satisfy the legislative requirements for this visa.
This visa recognises that some individuals have strong historical ties to Australia and may wish to return and permanently re-establish themselves in Australia after living overseas.
Unlike most family migration pathways, the Subclass 151 visa is not based on sponsorship by a family member. Instead, eligibility is generally connected to the applicant's previous status and historical connection with Australia.
Who Can Apply?
The Subclass 151 visa is intended for a limited group of applicants who meet specific legislative requirements.
Former Australian Citizens
Certain former Australian citizens may be eligible to apply if they satisfy the visa requirements.
Former Permanent Residents
Some former Australian permanent residents may qualify under the relevant legislative criteria.
Historical Australian Ties
Applicants generally need to demonstrate a qualifying historical connection with Australia.
Permanent Migration Outcome
The visa provides a permanent residence outcome for eligible applicants.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for the Former Resident Visa can be complex and depends on an applicant's individual history, previous status in Australia and compliance with the legislative requirements applicable at the time of application.
- Meet the relevant former resident eligibility criteria
- Demonstrate the required historical connection with Australia
- Satisfy health requirements
- Satisfy character requirements
- Meet all visa-specific legislative requirements
Because this visa applies to a relatively small group of applicants, professional advice may assist in determining eligibility.
Permanent Residence Benefits
The Subclass 151 visa grants permanent residence to successful applicants.
Permanent residents may generally live, work and study in Australia and access a range of rights and opportunities available to Australian permanent residents, subject to relevant laws and eligibility requirements.
Health and Character Requirements
Applicants must generally satisfy Australia's health and character requirements before a visa can be granted.
Health examinations, police clearances and other supporting evidence may be required depending on the applicant's circumstances.
Important Considerations
The Former Resident Visa is a specialised visa category and is not suitable for most applicants seeking migration to Australia.
Individuals who do not satisfy the Subclass 151 criteria may need to consider alternative migration pathways, including family migration, skilled migration, employer-sponsored visas or citizenship-related options.
Benefits of the Former Resident Visa
The Former Resident Visa (Subclass 151) provides eligible applicants with an opportunity to permanently return to Australia and re-establish their lives.
Permanent Residence
Successful applicants receive Australian permanent residence.
Live and Work in Australia
Eligible visa holders can live, work and study in Australia permanently.
Reconnect with Australia
Provides a pathway for eligible former residents to return and rebuild their lives in Australia.
Access Permanent Resident Benefits
Permanent residents may access various rights and opportunities available under Australian law.
Who Is This Visa Designed For?
The Former Resident Visa is designed for a relatively small group of applicants with a qualifying historical connection to Australia.
Unlike most family migration visas, the Subclass 151 visa is not based on sponsorship by a spouse, child or other family member. Instead, eligibility is linked to the applicant's previous Australian status and specific legislative requirements.
Because the eligibility rules are highly specialised, applicants should carefully review the requirements before lodging an application.
Alternative Migration Pathways
If you are not eligible for the Former Resident Visa, there may be other visa options available depending on your circumstances.
Partner Visas
Migration pathways for spouses and de facto partners of Australian citizens and permanent residents.
Child Visas
Permanent visa pathways for eligible children of Australian citizens and permanent residents.
Parent Visas
Various parent visa pathways for eligible parents of settled Australians.
Visa Assessment
Explore alternative migration options based on your personal circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subclass 151 visa a permanent visa?
Yes. The Former Resident Visa is a permanent residence visa.
Do I need a sponsor for this visa?
No. Unlike most family migration visas, the Subclass 151 visa is generally not based on sponsorship by a family member.
Can former Australian citizens apply?
Certain former Australian citizens may be eligible if they satisfy the legislative requirements for the visa.
Can former Australian permanent residents apply?
Some former Australian permanent residents may qualify depending on their circumstances and immigration history.
Do health and character requirements apply?
Yes. Applicants must generally satisfy Australia's health and character requirements.
Is the Subclass 151 visa common?
No. This is a specialised visa category that applies to a relatively small number of applicants.
Can this visa lead to Australian citizenship?
As a permanent resident, a visa holder may become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship in the future if all citizenship requirements are met.
Reviewed by Principal Migration Consultant
This page has been reviewed by Mohammad Reza Azimi, Principal Migration Consultant at Shada Migration. Mohammad has assisted clients with Australian migration matters since 2009 and holds a Graduate Certificate in Migration Law from the Australian National University (ANU).
Need Advice About a Former Resident Visa?
The Subclass 151 visa is a specialised visa category with unique eligibility requirements. Professional advice may help determine whether you qualify and whether alternative migration pathways may be available.
