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Substantial Ties to Australia

Strengthening your RRV application by demonstrating your connection to Australia.

NN
Nilesh Nandan
Immigration Lawyer · BBus(Accy) LLB MBA · Last updated March 2026
Book a 10-minute chat · $97

Overview

If you do not meet the two-year residency requirement for the Subclass 155 RRV, you may still be eligible if you can demonstrate substantial ties to Australia. I can help you build a strong case by identifying and documenting your business, cultural, employment, and personal ties to the country.

Substantial ties are a key component of a successful RRV application for those who have been away from Australia for an extended period. The Department of Home Affairs will consider the nature and extent of your ties, and how they are of benefit to Australia. I will work with you to present a comprehensive and compelling case that highlights your ongoing connection to the country.

Examples of substantial ties include owning a business in Australia, having close family members who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, being employed by an Australian company, or having significant personal assets in Australia. I will help you gather the evidence needed to demonstrate the strength of your ties and maximize your chances of a successful application.

Key Facts

Visa TypeResident Return Visa (Subclass 155)
Key RequirementDemonstrating substantial ties to Australia
Benefit to AustraliaYour ties must be shown to be of benefit to Australia

How I Work — Step by Step

1

Initial Consultation

We will review your ties to Australia and develop a strategy to present them effectively in your RRV application.

2

Evidence Collection

I will guide you in gathering the necessary evidence to support your claims of substantial ties.

3

Submission Preparation

I will draft a comprehensive submission that highlights the strength and nature of your ties to Australia.

4

Application Lodgement and Monitoring

I will lodge your application and monitor its progress, providing you with regular updates.

What I Do

  • Assess your business, cultural, employment, and personal ties to Australia.
  • Advise on the types of evidence that will strengthen your application.
  • Prepare a detailed submission that clearly articulates your substantial ties to Australia.
  • Assist you in obtaining supporting documentation from employers, business partners, and other relevant parties.
  • Ensure your application presents a compelling case to the Department of Home Affairs.

Who Is This For?

  • ›Permanent residents who have been living outside of Australia for an extended period.
  • ›RRV applicants who do not meet the two-year residency requirement.
  • ›Individuals who need to demonstrate a strong and ongoing connection to Australia.

Common questions about

What are some examples of substantial ties?+
Business ties can include ownership of a business in Australia, while cultural ties can include artistic or sporting achievements. Employment ties can be with an Australian organization, and personal ties can include close family members or property ownership.
How do I prove my substantial ties?+
Evidence can include business registration documents, employment contracts, property deeds, bank statements, and letters from family and friends. I will help you determine what evidence is most relevant to your case.
Is it possible to have my RRV application refused even if I have substantial ties?+
While substantial ties significantly strengthen your application, the Department of Home Affairs assesses each case on its merits. I will work to ensure your application is as strong as possible to minimize the risk of refusal.

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The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Thoughts only — not legal advice.

Important: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law in Australia is complex, fact-specific, and subject to frequent change under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), the Migration Regulations 1994, and departmental policy. You must seek independent, qualified legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any immigration decision or taking any action. Viewing this website does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Terms of Use | Full Disclaimer

Phone 1300 558 472Nilesh Nandan, Attorney at Law · Principal, MyVisa Lawyers · MyVisa Australia Pty Ltd · ABN 65 092 524 359 · a service entity of MyVisa Lawyers Pty Ltd · ABN 54 607 960 547

Nilesh Nandan is an admitted solicitor and Australian legal practitioner admitted to the High Court of Australia, authorised to provide immigration assistance under the Migration Act 1958. As an Australian legal practitioner who holds an unrestricted practising certificate, Nilesh is regulated by the Office of the Legal Services Commissioner and is not required to be registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (OMARA). Nilesh Nandan BBus(Accy), LLB, MBA, Attorney at Law, Principal, MyVisa Lawyers. Member: Law Council of Australia · Fellow, Migration Institute of Australia (FMIA) · Member, MIA Temporary Visa Program Advisory Panel · Listed, FCFCOA Pro Bono Referral List of Solicitors (Migration). Past appointments: Member, MIA Character and Cancellation Advisory Panel, 2024 to 2026 · Chair, MIA Disciplinary Committee, 23 February 2026 to 20 March 2026.

Liability is limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. The content on this website is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to be relied upon as, and should not be taken as, a substitute for specific legal advice relevant to your individual circumstances. Immigration law is complex and subject to frequent change; the information on this site may not reflect the most current legal developments and may not apply to your situation. You should seek independent, qualified legal advice before making any immigration decision or taking any action based on the content of this website. Viewing this website, using the tools provided, or contacting our office does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Parts of this website are enhanced through the use of artificial intelligence; despite best endeavours, AI-assisted content may not be suitable for your specific immigration circumstances. “myvisa” is a registered trademark used under licence. MyVisa is not affiliated with the Department of Home Affairs or any government agency.

I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we operate, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. I pay my respects to elders past, present, and emerging, recognising their enduring connection to the land, waters, and culture.

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