Essential Steps for Permanent Residents: Check Your Visa Before Travelling Overseas to Avoid Stranding
HOme > Essential Steps for Permanent Residents: Check Your Visa Before Travelling Overseas to Avoid Stranding
As a permanent resident of Australia, it is vital to understand your visa conditions, particularly regarding your right to return to Australia after travelling abroad. Failing to ensure that your visa is properly set up for re-entry can result in being stranded outside of Australia.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare before your trip:
Step 1: Check the Validity of Your Travel Facility
As a permanent visa holder, you must have a valid travel facility attached to your visa to return to Australia. A travel facility allows multiple entries into Australia within a set period. If this facility has expired or is no longer valid, you may not be able to re-enter the country.
- Consideration: You can verify the status and validity of your travel facility by using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.
Step 2: Apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) if Needed
If your travel facility has expired or is invalid while you are overseas, you will need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to return to Australia as a permanent resident. Without this, you may face delays or even risk being stranded outside of Australia.
Step 3: Verify Your Visa Information Electronically (if necessary)
If your last arrival in Australia occurred before 1990, you might not have an electronic record of your permanent visa. In this case, it’s essential to have your visa recorded electronically before you travel.
- Consideration:Visit the official “Proof of Permanent Residency” page for guidance on how to update your visa record electronically.
Step 4: Got a New Passport? Link Your Passport to Your Visa
If you have a new passport, make sure it is linked to your visa before travelling. Failing to do so can cause delays when crossing the border.
- Consideration:Update your passport details with the Department of Home Affairs. You can do this online to avoid any last-minute issues at immigration control. More information can be found on the “You Have a New Passport” page.
Step 5: Plan for Potential Delays
If you find yourself needing to apply for an RRV while overseas, be aware that it could delay your return to Australia. It is always advisable to check and resolve any visa issues before leaving the country.
Final Considerations:
- Ensure your travel facility is valid before your departure.
- Update your passport details linked to your visa to avoid delays.
- If you are unsure about your visa status, use VEVO to verify your travel entitlements.
Looking for the Best Visa Consulting?
LIVV Immigration provides a suite of services pertaining to immigration and visa issues.