Information for New Zealanders living in Australia

Resident Return Visa travel capacity

Check the Must Not Arrive After date on your Visa Grant Notice.
Check the Must Not Arrive After date on your Visa Grant Notice.

02 February 2016

For those fortunate enough to have been granted a Resident Return Visa (RRV), it's important to be aware of the 12-month travel capacity.

Unfortunately, some people have been caught out, resulting in having to re-apply for the RRV, and wait a further 12 months before being able to apply for citizenship. Note: you may be eligible for the new direct citizenship pathway for non-protected Special Category Visa-holders.

Being granted a Resident Return Visa (RRV) makes you are a Permanent Resident and allows you to reside in Australia indefinitely. Please be aware that:

If necessary, you can renew your RRV online before re-entering Australia

After being lawfully present in Australia, as a permanent resident, for at least two years you will be granted a five-year travel capacity when renewing your RRV. Note: time spent overseas will not count towards the two years.

Supporting documents

If it is less than two years since you were first granted RRV you will be required to submit certified copies of your supporting documents and a written statement about your ties to Australia.

You will also need to include your New Zealand criminal conviction history if you have not previously provided one (now only valid for six months).

travel facility explained

IMPORTANT

New Zealanders re-entering Australia without renewing their RRV will be issued a Special Category Visa. This will delay or prevent them from applying for citizenship. Even if you have a valid travel facility, ask the Immigration official to confirm you hold a permanent visa.

If you become an SCV-holder again, then reapply for RRV.

Related

Check your visa status (VEVO)

Renew your Resident Return Visa

Visa Grant Notice