Australian permanent residents in China are being reminded that holding a permanent visa does not guarantee re-entry to Australia without a valid travel facility.
A travel facility allows permanent visa holders to leave and re-enter Australia, but it is only valid for a limited period, typically one or five years.
If you are outside Australia and your travel facility has expired, your permanent visa is no longer valid.
This means you will be denied boarding for travel back into Australia and you could face significant delays at the airport if you attempt to return without a valid visa.
If your travel facility has expired, you must apply for and be granted a Resident Return visa (RRV) before returning to Australia. This process can take time and visa application charges apply, which you should factor into your travel plans and costs.
Airlines cannot allow boarding without a valid travel facility on a permanent resident visa or an RRV.
If your permanent resident visa has ceased and you attempt to return on a Visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) instead of an RRV, you may face serious and long-term consequences that affect your rights in Australia. This includes your eligibility for Australian citizenship, permanent residence status and entitlements including Medicare, unrestricted work rights and other government benefits.
Do not to wait until check-in to apply for an RRV. Applying early helps avoid unnecessary costs, delays and disruption to your travels.
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.
When you plan your travel:
- Check Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) to confirm your travel facility is still valid.
- If your travel facility has expired or will expire before returning to Australia, apply early for a Resident Return visa (RRV) to avoid travel disruptions
- Check your passport is valid and linked to your visa in VEVO.
Learn more at Travelling overseas as a permanent resident (homeaffairs.gov.au).