Next Steps in Australia
Resident return visa
A permanent visa allows you to remain in Australia indefinitely, however it is generally only valid for travel for a limited period. Please refer to your visa grant letter for confirmation of this date. If you wish to continue to travel in and out of Australia after the expiration of your visa, you will need to apply for a Resident Return visa (RRV).
Based on current law, RRVs are simple to obtain if the applicant has resided in Australia for 2 years out of the 5 years immediately before applying. If not, the RRV can still be granted if the applicant demonstrates beneficial ties to Australia.
Citizenship
The basic criteria to be granted Australian Citizenship are as follows:
- Commenced residence in Australia at least 4 years before lodgement; and
- Have resided in Australia for 3 out of the last 4 years; and
- Have resided in Australia for 9 out of the last 12 months; and
- Have resided in Australia for at least 1 year as a permanent resident in Australia; and
- No period of unlawfulness (ie. Not having a visa) during last 4 years’ residence in Australia; and
- Demonstrate your identity should the Department of Home Affairs (the Department) have any doubts; and
- Meet the character test.
Medicare
Permanent residents are eligible for benefits under the public health scheme Medicare. Apply for Medicare at the website here.
Centrelink payments
Please see the information on the Services Australia website regarding waiting periods for social security benefits.
Driver’s Licence
If you are still using an overseas driver’s licence, some states require you to convert to an Australian licence within a specified period. Please contact your local licencing authority for further details.
Checking your Visa Status
From 1 September 2015, the Department ceased issuing visa labels. You can provide evidence that you have the authority to travel to, enter, and/or remain in Australia by showing your passport that is linked to your electronic visa record. You can use Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) or the myVEVO mobile app for free to check your visa details and conditions.
Change of passport details
If you obtain a new passport, please notify the Department as your permanent visa is linked to your current passport.
Change of address details
You are not required to notify the Department of a change of address now that you are a permanent resident.
