PR granted? Things that trip people up before citizenship

Most people need 4 years of lawful residence in Australia, including the last 12 months as a permanent resident. Good news for 482 holders: time on a temporary visa counts towards the 4 years. The parts people get wrong: • Absences. No more than 12 months outside Australia in the 4 years, and no more than 90 days in the last 12 months. A long trip home can push your date back. • Counting from memory. Request your official movement records from Home Affairs, then use the residence calculator. • Character. Declare everything they ask about, even if you think it is minor. • Fees. The application fee went up on 1 July 2026, so check the current amount before you pay. There is a full checklist under Tips in this app.