sprite_green

Evening everyone - it has been a while!

I have searched for this topic, but couldn't find anything quite the same - apologies if I've missed it.

We have PR (granted Dec-06). We made a quick validation visit in Mar/Apr-07, and then returned permanently Mar-08. Since then we have made a few trips to NZ, UK, etc.

Adding up the dates, I believe I have been out of country for 385 days since the first validation date.

The Citizenship website states that we will need to provide good character documentation (original penal certificates) if the total time spent overseas adds up to 12 months or more.

It seems really odd that there is no over-arching period (e.g. 12 months overseas within a 3 year period is one thing; 12 months overseas within a 7 year period feels a bit different). Anyone got any thoughts?

TIA.
SG

NickyC

There is an over-arching period. Only the four years immediately prior to applying for citizenship is taken into account. You can be absent for no more than 1 year in the preceding four years and no more than 90 days in the preceding year.

See here under the Step 2 - Residence Requirement heading. http://www.citizenship.gov.au/applyi...l_app_process/

sprite_green

Thanks Nicky - really helpful! It really has been a while (we were very active in BE while securing our visas 7 years ago), but it is fantastic to see the community is still as responsive. Karma well deserved.