Why Australian PR Status Isn’t Always Permanent
Imagine you have finally achieved your goal of holding Australian permanent residency (PR), but have been abroad for a few years, only to discover that your dreams of returning home have turned into a nightmare. It might seem unfathomable, but many individuals find themselves stranded overseas, unable to re-enter Australia after years of living abroad. That is also because of a missing Resident Return Visa (RRV) (Subclass 155). This often-overlooked requirement can turn a straightforward return into a complex matter.
Why is it Difficult for a Permanent Resident to Return to Australia?
Some long-term permanent residents assume their ability to return to Australia is guaranteed. However, without an RRV (SC 155), entry is only possible if the PR is still valid. Once the PR travel facility expires, re-entry isn’t as simple as it seems.
What is a Resident Return Visa (RRV) (Subclass 155)?
An RRV (Subclass 155) allows Australian permanent residents to re-enter Australia after travelling abroad, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
A PR visa holder allows an individual to live in Australia permanently without any restrictions. However, a PR visa has a travel facility of 5 years. This also indicates that if the PR holder travels overseas, they will then need to apply for an RRV (SC 155) once the PR visa’s 5-year travel facility expires to re-enter Australia.
What Can I, as a Permanent Resident, do to Return to Australia?
The solution is not as straightforward as one might like. We highly suggest that you speak with an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law to seek professional guidance and assistance. However, a few tips to prevent a situation such as this are:
Permanent residents need to maintain a valid RRV to travel internationally and return to Australia to be eligible to renew for another RRV.
Without an RRV, residents may need to requalify under current immigration standards, unless they have obtained Australian citizenship.
Many individuals aren’t informed of these limitations; hence, understanding these conditions may help avoid future headaches when returning to Australia.
It is important to check your PR visa status and the end date of your travel facility to ensure you can re-enter Australia and avoid getting stuck abroad.
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
Seek professional guidance for creative strategies depending on your circumstances by discussing it with an immigration lawyer. Reach out to one of our immigration lawyers at Agape Henry Crux. Our team works with two of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law who specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers or agents to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English, Mandarin and Cantonese. We can also help you arrange an interpreter if this isn't your language.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
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