Australian PR (protection visa) – risks returning to Myanmar to see dying mother?

Hi all,

I’m an Australian PR through a Protection Visa (subclass 866), originally from Myanmar. I still have my Myanmar NRC and passport.

My mother is in Myanmar with late-stage cancer and likely has about a year left. I want to go see her. Lawyers I spoke to said I may be able to travel on compassionate grounds using a Certificate of Travel (CTD), but all quoted around AUD 7,000 for the advice.

I’m very worried:

• Myanmar doesn’t allow dual citizenship. • If I enter on a CTD, they might know I’m a protection visa holder. • They could seize my property or inheritance, or question/detain me. • I have no one I fully trust to handle power of attorney or property matters. 

Has anyone here:

• Returned to Myanmar after getting a protection visa in Australia? • Entered with a CTD? • Faced issues with immigration, citizenship, or property? • Found cheaper ways to get advice or handle this safely? 

I’m torn between seeing my mother and protecting my safety/future. Any advice, experiences, or tips would mean a lot. 🙏