The Challenge
A senior executive at a major financial institution in China was granted an Employer-Sponsored 186 visa (direct PR) back in 2015. Due to work commitments, he never lived in Australia long-term and has since relied on two renewals of the 155 Resident Return Visa.

Recently, his company imposed a strict rule: employees are not allowed to hold foreign permanent residency. This left him in a difficult position—how to comply with company policy while safeguarding his future options in Australia?

Our Solution

On September 4, we submitted an urgent Subclass 600 Visitor Visa application.

On September 5, the embassy conducted a phone verification, and approval was granted the same day.

The client received a 1-year visitor visa in just 24 hours!

Key Actions Taken

Proactively explained to the Department of Home Affairs the legitimate reason for not maintaining the 155 visa (company policy restrictions).

Emphasized the genuine purpose of the visitor visa (short visits, not migration).

Leveraged the client’s strong financial industry background and reputation with carefully prepared supporting documents.

The Outcome
The 155 visa was lawfully overridden, allowing the client’s PR status to transition smoothly. This not only satisfied company compliance requirements but also preserved flexible future access to Australia.

Takeaway for PR Holders
If you hold Australian PR but spend long periods overseas, visa planning is crucial. Forcing the renewal of a 155 visa may cause compliance issues with employers, while casually abandoning PR could mean losing long-term rights. A tailored professional strategy is the safest way forward.