A permanent visa does not allow you to enter Australia without a valid travel facility. A travel facility allows permanent visa holders to leave and re-enter Australia. A travel facility is typically valid for one or five years.

Before departing Australia, permanent residents should:

• Check Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) to confirm your travel facility is valid for the duration of your trip
• Apply early for a Resident Return visa (RRV) where your travel facility will expire before your planned return to Australia
• Check your passport is valid and linked to your visa in VEVO.

If your travel facility has expired, or will expire while you are overseas, you must apply and be granted an RRV to return to Australia. This application process can take time and fees apply, so plan ahead.

Applying early for an RRV helps avoid unnecessary costs, delays and disruption to your travels. Airlines cannot allow boarding without a valid travel facility on a permanent resident visa or an RRV that is linked to the passport you are travelling on.

Do not return on a Visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) instead of an RRV. This can have serious long-term consequences affecting your:

• Eligibility for Australian citizenship
• Permanent residence status
• Entitlements including Medicare, unrestricted work rights, and other government benefits.

If eligible, consider applying for Australian citizenship and make an ongoing commitment to Australia and shared Australian values. As an Australian citizen, you will be able to travel freely using an Australian passport.