Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for return time indication on network switching. A method may include determining that expected activity in a second network element will last more than a maximum allowed time of temporary absence from a first network element while being connected to the first network element. The method may also include transmitting based on the determination, to the first network element, an assistance information message indicating a preference to leave the connection with the first network element. The method may further include receiving a connection release message from the first network element including an indication for a user equipment to return to the connection with the first network element, in response to the assistance information message.