As an Australian permanent resident, it’s important to know that you do not have an automatic right to return to Australia from overseas. Your ability to re-enter Australia depends on the validity of the travel facility associated with your permanent visa.
What is a Travel Facility?
When you are granted your first permanent visa, it typically includes a 5-year travel facility. This means you can travel in and out of Australia as much as you would like during those 5 years, as long as your visa remains valid.
After 5 Years: What Happens?
Once the initial 5-year travel facility expires, you cannot return to Australia as a permanent resident unless you apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV). The RRV allows you to continue traveling in and out of Australia. The duration of this RRV depends upon the amount of time you have spent outside Australia versus in during this original five-year period.
How Long Will Your RRV Last?
The duration of your RRV depends on your circumstances:
- If you’ve spent at least 2 years in Australia during the last 5 years as a permanent resident, you will likely receive a 5-year travel facility on your RRV.
- If you haven’t met the 2-year requirement but can show strong ties to Australia (such as family, work, or business connections), you may be granted only a 12-month travel facility.
- If you’re applying as a family member of someone who holds an RRV, you may also receive a maximum of 12 months.
- If you have compelling reasons for leaving Australia, you may be granted a 3-month travel facility. This is available if you haven’t been absent from Australia in the past 5 years and can show a valid reason for your departure.
Key Takeaways
- Permanent residents do not have an automatic right to return to Australia five years after their initial grant of residency.
- A Resident Return Visa (RRV) is needed for re-entry after the initial 5 years.
- The length of your RRV’s travel facility depends on factors like time spent in Australia, your ties to the country, and your personal situation.
For more details on your specific situation, you can check your visa grant notification or use the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service to see the details of your travel facility.
