alexprior

Hi all,

Right now me and my wife is in a dilemma and want suggestions please. My wife will be eligible for Australian citizenship by this December as she is here as PR for last 45 months. I am also here in Australia on PR visa for last one year. Now both of us have to move back to Chicago for at least one year due to business needs by this December.
So far we realize that after applying for citizenship it may took 3-6 months to get Australian passport for her. Meanwhile if she moves abroad in December after applying for citizenship and wants to return to attend citizenship ceremony when it will take place, she will not have any valid visa to enter. In this case need your suggestions on three things. Does she can leave Australia between applying for citizenship and getting Australian passport? And if she can, will she be eligible to apply for RRV now for future return to attend the citizenship ceremony?
Also in RRV requirement it is mentioned that she has to prove to have substantial bonding in Australia. How she can prove that if she does not have any job/business in Australia when she will return?

I know it's lots of queries, but will really appreciate your suggestions.

cheers,
Alex

roaringmouse

Yes, she can leave Australia after applying for citizenship and before the decision has been made - however she would need to be in Australia on the day the decision is made. She can also be outside Australia between when the decision is made and the ceremony.

As soon as she attends a ceremony (which could be some time after the decision) she would be an Australian citizen, and would therefore from that time need an Australian passport to leave the country. Yes, she can apply for an RRV either now or when in the US. This can be applied for online, and as she's spent at least 2 years out of the last 5 in Australia she should get a 5 year RRV. She has spent 2 years out of the last 5 in Australia - this makes her eligible for the 5 year RRV. Reference

roaringmouse

Something else to be aware of is that your wife would also need to attend an appointment (called an interview) which includes taking the citizenship test. This could happen any time from 1 week to a couple of months after the application is made.

alexprior

Thanks a lot!! It really helps us.

JAJ

Also be aware that one of the requirements for Australian citizenship is an intention to either remain resident in Australia, or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.