Hi folks
Wonder if you can help me with a timing question. We have been in Oz since Dec 09 and our PR visa expires in Nov 2010. We have not clocked up the 2 years residency but can show substantial ties, got job, bought land and have family here.

I am not sure when is best to apply for a RRV. We don't need it for holidays, but we both have elderly parents in the uk and may need to return at short notice so I don't want to be in the position of not being able to get back in.

Anyone know how long it takes to get a substantial ties RRV?
If our visa expires in Nov when would be best to apply?
Are we ok with only having a few months left - assume its not like a passport when need 6 months validity on it before travel?

Thanks peeps

I'd apply for it now. I don't think they take long to come through but you don't have to wait until the visa expires before you do so for piece of mind, it would be a good thing to do.

As for the six month thing, you only need six months remaining in the passport if you are travelling through a few countries in (mainly) asia, it's not required for most travel but apart from that there is no such ruling with the visa so don't worry if you have to travel before RRV grant.

Now should be a good time to apply, if you are clearly settled in Australia.

Read: http://britishexpats.com/wiki/Reside...Visa-Australia

Always ensure you have valid passports and RRV in case you need to travel urgently. Perhaps take the opportunity to check your passport expiry dates?

thanks guys, will look at doing it now then. Any idea how long it takes for this type of RRV?
We still have 4 years on passports (courtesy of them being stolen!) so no need to renew soon.

Unless things have changed recently, around a month or so for concessional RRVs.

Quick question having just read your BE article; if I need to go back to the UK for a couple of weeks to see family and my visa hasn't run out........ then I don't need a RRV is that right??

Thanks

S long as your visa is still valid when you get back, you're fine - look at the label, it will say something like "Must not enter Australia after....."or "Valid for entry until....." Just make sure you are back by that date

Just an update for folk on timing for this.
Applied on 30th September this year, RRV's granted 8th October, passports back in our hands this morning 13th October, sent to Parramatta with lots of evidence so no problems

Scotty

Excellent news! Thanks for the update