Re-entry Permits for Australian Permanent Residents
Most permanent visas only allow you to re-enter Australia for the first 5 years after they are granted.
If you have held a permanent visa for 5 years and you want to travel overseas, you must first apply for a resident return visa, which will allow you to re-enter Australia.
Resident return visa applications for people who usually live in Australia are very simple. However, Resident return visa applications for people who do not live in Australia or who have spent long periods of time outside Australia are much more complex.
Resident return visa applicants who have not spent a total of at least 2 years in Australia in the last 5 years, must prove that they have substantial ties with Australia that are of benefit to Australia.
People who have been outside Australia for 5 or more years, must also prove that they have compelling reasons for their absence.
Former Australian Citizens or Former Permanent Residents
In some circumstances, former citizens who have lost or renounced their citizenship, former permanent residents (except those who had their visa cancelled) and New Zealand citizens who entered Australia before 1 September 1994 can apply for a Resident Return visa or Former Resident visa to return to Australia.
Please contact us for advice about whether you may be able to regain your Australian citizenship or permanent resident status.
