bridging visa australia travel

A Guide to Bridging Visas in Australia

By Francis Manuel Lawyer

Updated on December 13, 2023 Reading time: 5 minutes

This article meets our strict editorial principles. Our lawyers, experienced writers and legally trained editorial team put every effort into ensuring the information published on our website is accurate. We encourage you to seek independent legal advice. Learn more .

Bridging A Visa (Subclass 010)

Bridging b visa (subclass 020), bridging c visa (subclass 030), bridging d visa (subclass 040 and 041), bridging e visa (subclass 050 and 051), bridging f visa (subclass 060) and bridging r visa (subclass 070), key takeaways.

Bridging visas play a crucial role in Australia’s immigration system, providing temporary legal status to individuals transitioning between different visa types or facing exceptional circumstances. Bridging visas offer temporary relief and certain rights to individuals until their immigration status is determined. This article will explore the different types of bridging visas available in Australia, their work rights, and what each type of bridging visa generally entails.

The Bridging A Visa (BVA) provides temporary legal status to individuals already in Australia who have applied for another substantive visa (which can be granted in Australia) while holding a valid substantive visa. A substantive visa is any visa that is not a bridging visa. The BVA bridges the gap between the expiration of the current substantive visa and the final decision on the new visa application.

It is important to note that the BVA is granted automatically to individuals who apply for a new substantive visa while holding a valid substantive visa in Australia. The BVA comes into effect once the current substantive visa expires, providing the visa holder with lawful status until the decision on their new visa application. 

If a BVA fails to automatically generate once you submit your application for a new visa, you can apply for one manually.

Work Rights

In most cases, if the substantive visa held by an individual at the time of application had work restrictions, the bridging visa they receive will also be subject to the same work limitations. There are certain exemptions for eligible applicants of employer-nominated and independent skilled visas. Therefore, they could enjoy unrestricted work rights on their BVA, even if their previous substantive visas had work restrictions attached to them.

For instance, suppose Harry holds a visitor visa valid for three months without Condition 8503 (no further stay). While in Australia, they received an offer of employment from a Restaurant for the nominated occupation of Chef. The restaurant and Harry subsequently applied for the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186) (Direct Entry stream), and Harry automatically received a BVA. Harry can start working for the restaurant when his visitor visa expires.

Note that Harry has to wait until his current visitor visa expires before working for the restaurant. Harry’s BVA will only be active once his current visitor visa expires. Accordingly, if Harry works for the restaurant while on a visitor visa, he will breach his visa conditions.

On the other hand, if your substantive visa has unrestricted work rights, you will generally have the same entitlement when you are issued a BVA after applying for another substantive visa.

The BVA remains valid throughout the processing period until a decision regarding the new substantive visa application is reached. Please note that the BVA does not include travel rights. Suppose you choose to depart Australia while holding a BVA. In that case, the BVA will cease to be in effect, and you will be required to await the outcome of your new substantive visa application before returning to Australia.

The BVA can also be granted based on awaiting an outcome for merits and judicial review proceedings. In such cases, it is advisable to seek guidance from an immigration lawyer who can provide specific advice based on your circumstances.

The Bridging B Visa (BVB) serves the purpose of allowing individuals to temporarily depart and re-enter the country while their substantive visa application is processing. It is generally designed for individuals who hold a BVA or a BVB (where the travel facility has expired) and genuinely need to travel outside Australia for a specified period.

Applicants must apply for and be granted the BVB before departing Australia.

It is important to note that the BVB has a specified travel period, and the visa holder must return to Australia within the designated time frame (generally three months).

The BVB generally inherits the work rights of the underlying bridging visa held by the individual. This means that if the individual has work rights on their BVA or BVB, they will have the same work rights on the new BVB.

Please note that granting a BVB is discretionary. The Department of Home Affairs will assess your individual circumstances and substantial reasons to travel. The Migration Policy provides guidance around the meaning of “substantial reasons” – such as employment and family matters. Please also note that once an individual is outside Australia, they cannot extend BVB. To obtain an extended BVB, the individual must be physically present in Australia and submit a new application. It is advisable to seek guidance from an immigration lawyer before applying for a BVB.

The Bridging C Visa (BVC) provides temporary lawful status to individuals already in the country who apply for a substantive visa while holding a non-substantive visa (such as a BVA, BVB or BVC) or who don’t hold a valid visa and have applied for a specific substantive visa onshore. The BVC does not permit you to travel and may (in some instances) come without work rights. 

Typically, the initial grant of a BVC includes Condition 8101, which restricts work rights, commonly known as the ‘no work’ condition. To obtain work rights on a BVC, individuals generally need to make a new application, demonstrate that their substantive visa application is still pending a final decision, and provide evidence of a compelling need to work.

The Migration Policy offers guidance regarding interpreting a “compelling need to work,” typically fulfilled when the visa applicant provides evidence of experiencing financial hardship. The visa applicant can provide the following evidence:

• that their reasonable living expenses exceed their financial capacity to pay;
• receipts or records of living expenses (utilities, groceries, rent, etc.);
• that they have no alternative means of financial support; or
• that they are providing financial support to someone else.

For instance, suppose Harry is on a student visa. He has recently completed a 4-year Bachelor’s degree and satisfies the Australian study requirement. Their student visa expired, and they overlooked applying for a 485 graduate visa (Post Study Work stream). Harry could apply for a BVC to maintain their lawful status in Australia. However, Harry will not be able to apply subsequently for the 485 visa as he currently needs to hold a substantive visa.

To address this issue, Harry can explore an alternative option, such as the 408 (COVID-19) visa. This particular visa welcomes applications from individuals whose visas have expired within 28 days before submitting their visa application. By applying for the 408 visa, Harry will receive a BVC while awaiting the outcome of the 408 visa application. Nevertheless, once the 408 visa is granted and Harry holds a substantive visa, Harry can then proceed to apply for a graduate visa, subject to meeting other eligibility criteria.

However, it is essential to acknowledge that the future availability of the 408 (COVID-19) visa cannot be guaranteed. While it may be a viable option currently, it is subject to potential changes in visa policies and regulations. It is recommended to seek guidance from an immigration lawyer who can offer tailored advice based on your unique circumstances.

The Bridging D Visa (BVD) allows you to remain in Australia for a limited period when you cannot apply for a substantive visa or are awaiting an outcome for a Bridging Visa E (BVE) application. The BVD serves as a short-term solution, allowing individuals to maintain lawful status in Australia while they navigate their circumstances.

The BVD has two subclasses:

Subclass 040

Subclass 040 is for individuals who are currently or will soon become unlawful (within three days from making the BVD application) in Australia and need additional time to prepare and submit a substantive visa application. It will only be granted for five working days.

Subclass 041

This visa subclass is for individuals who are currently or will soon become unlawful and unable or unwilling to apply for a substantive visa, and a delegate of the Department of Home Affairs is not available to interview you. Subclass 041 will only be granted for five working days. If an applicant needs more time to make the necessary arrangements, the applicant can explore the Bridging E Visa (BVE).

BVD holders do not possess work rights while they hold the BVD. For individuals holding subclass 041, an additional condition requires them to report to the Department of Home Affairs at a specified time and location.

The Bridging E Visa (BVE) is for individuals who are in immigration detention, have overstayed their visa, are unlawful, and cannot apply for any other substantive visa. The BVE provides temporary lawful status to individuals while they make arrangements for their departure from Australia or resolve their immigration matters, such as having a pending merit or judicial review matter or Ministerial intervention request.

The BVE has two subclasses:

Subclass 050

The subclass 050 is also known as the Bridging (General) visa and has the following relevant criteria:

• The individual making the application is an unlawful non-citizen (not a holder of a valid visa); or
• An individual that holds a BVD or BVE and belongs to any of the following categories:
• In the process of or has pending substantive visa application and merits review proceeding;
• In the process of or has pending merits review proceeding of a visa cancellation decision; 
• Currently making arrangements to leave Australia;
• Has applied for judicial review concerning a substantive visa application decision;
• Is a subject of a ministerial intervention request;
• Is in criminal detention and is not a subject of a stay certificate or warrant.

Subclass 051

The subclass 051 is also known as the Bridging (Protection Visa Applicant) visa and is only available for eligible individuals that have applied for a protection visa.

Imposing work conditions is at the discretion of the delegate of the Department of Home Affairs. Additionally, it will depend on the applicant’s specific circumstances. Nevertheless, BVE holders with a ‘no work’ condition on their visas could submit a new application for a BVE and show a “compelling need to work”, as explained above. There are additional criteria to subclass 051 holders, such as demonstrating and providing reasons for the delay in applying for a protection visa. It is advisable to seek guidance from a refugee lawyer about how to satisfy any additional criteria.

The Bridging F Visa (BVF) is explicitly for alleged victims of human trafficking and slavery. This visa aims to provide temporary protection and support to those who have experienced these heinous crimes. It allows them to remain lawfully in Australia and access necessary services while the Department assesses and investigates their situation. BVF does not provide work rights to its holders.

Meanwhile, the Bridging R Visa (BVR), also known as the Removal Pending Bridging Visa, is intended for individuals in immigration detention who demonstrate a willingness to fully cooperate with efforts to be removed from Australia. However, their removal is not deemed reasonably practicable due to current circumstances. Generally, BVR holders are entitled to work while waiting to be removed from Australia.

Sponsoring overseas workers as an Australian business is complicated. Let us simplify it for you with this free employer guide.

Understanding the different types of bridging visas in Australia is essential for individuals navigating the immigration system. Bridging visas serve as a temporary solution during transitional periods. They provide individuals with legal status and certain rights while their visa applications are processing or the Department is addressing exceptional circumstances.

These visas, such as the Bridging A, B, C, D, and E visas, cater to specific situations. These include:

• awaiting a decision on a substantive visa application;
• temporary departure and re-entry;
• maintaining lawful status while preparing a substantive visa application; or
• resolving immigration proceedings.

Applicants must know each visa type’s criteria, work rights, and conditions. Additionally, specialised bridging visas, such as the Bridging F and R visas, provide temporary protection, support, and, in some instances, work rights to address the specific circumstances these individuals face.

Navigating the complexities of bridging visas can be challenging. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional guidance from immigration lawyers or experts. They can provide tailored advice based on individual circumstances. If you need help with your bridging visa, our experienced immigration lawyers can assist as part of our LegalVision membership. For a low monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to lawyers to answer your questions and draft and review your documents. Call us today on 1300 544 755 or visit our membership page .

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Home > Blog > Bridging visas

Bridging visas

Introduction

Bridging Visas are temporary visas that are granted for a number of reasons. They are not substantive visas – rather, they are visas that allow you to remain in Australia while you resolve matters relating to a substantive visa.

Types of Bridging Visas

There are many different bridging visas that can come into effect depending on the applicant’s circumstances. They are:

• You must hold or have held a substantive visa
• You must be in Australia
• You must be waiting for a decision on a lodged visa application or for judicial review
• You must be holding a BVA or BVB
• Have substantial reasons for wanting to travel

You must be waiting for a decision on a visa application, or for judicial review

• You must not have previously held, or currently hold, a BVE since your last substantive visa
• You must not have held a substantive visa at time of lodgement
• Be an unlawful non-citizen or hold a subclass 050 or 041 visa
• Previously had your visa application refused or cancelled
• Applied for a protection visa
• Have been refused or bypassed immigration clearance
• Be in immigration detention

Others less common bridging visas are the:

• Subclass 040 (Bridging (Prospective Applicant), (Subclass 040);
• Subclass 041 (Bridging (Non-applicant), (Subclass 041);
• Subclass 060 (Bridging F), (BVF);
• Subclass 070 (Bridging (Removal Pending)), (BVR).

Am I eligible for a Subclass 010 (Bridging A) visa (BVA)?

The BVA can be granted if you are in any of the following circumstance:

• If you have applied for a visa that can be granted while you are in Australia, the BVA may be granted until the decision is made on that application. For example, you may have applied for a Partner visa while visiting Australia. Since the onshore partner visa can only be granted while the applicant is onshore, a BVA will be granted so that you can stay in Australia while the visa is processing. If you were holding a substantive visa when you applied or were granted the BVA, the BVA only becomes active on the day the substantive visa ceases. If the application for the substantive visa is refused, and a review process does not follow afterwards, the BVA will expire in 35 days.
• If you have applied for a visa that can be granted while you are in Australia while holding a BVA, but the application was refused, and you have made an application for judicial review. Once the judicial review proceedings, and any appeal proceedings, are concluded, or you decide to withdraw your application for review or appeal, then the BVA will expire in 28 days.

Are there mandatory conditions on the BVA?

If the visa is granted, the following conditions will be attached to your visa.

This condition only applies if you applied for a protection visa, and if you have already had this condition applied to your last visa.

If you have made an application for a Skilled visa, this condition will apply.

If you are the holder of a 457 visa applying for a 482 visa, this condition will apply.

If you made an application for a Parent visa (either a 103 or 143 visa), this condition may apply depending on the details of your application.

8107, 8501, 8607

This condition only applies if you are a holder of a 457 visa applying for a 482 visa.

8101, 8102, 8103, 8104, 8105, 8107, 8108, 8111, 8112, 8114, 8115, 8539, 8547, 8549, 8607 and 8608

If the last visa you held had any of these conditions attached, this condition will apply.

Travel rights on the Bridging Visa

While your substantial visa application (for example, an onshore Partner visa) is processing, you may want to travel overseas. You can travel on a Bridging Visa B (BVB). To apply for a BVB you must have substantial reasons to leave and re-enter Australia during the processing of your current substantial visa application.

Your reasons to leave Australia should be substantial. Although there is no legal definition of the word, the BVB will be decided based on whether the reasons as real, important, and urgent.

Some examples of substantial reasons are:

• To visit parents and family who are ill
• Attending a conference
• To attend a wedding or funeral of a close family member, relative or friend
• Undergoing medical treatment for an existing condition

You should attach documentation evidencing your circumstances, such as a death certificate, letter of invitation, or flight itinerary.

Your BVB application should be made up to 3 months before the date of intended travel. You should not leave Australia before the grant of the BVB.

You must ensure that your BVB does not cease while you are outside of Australia. You cannot made a valid application for a new BVB while you are outside Australia, in order to return to Australia. You will have to apply for a new substantive visa while overseas in order to return. As such, be aware of the expiry date of the BVB and the process of your substantive visa application.

Work Rights on the Bridging Visa

Some Bridging Visas have conditions that prevent a person from engaging in work. These conditions are 8101, 8102, 8103, 8104, 8105, 8107, 8108, 8111, 8112, 8115, 8547, 8607 or 8608.

However, you can make a request for work rights while on a Bridging Visa if you can provide reasons demonstrating a compelling need to work.

For work rights on a BVA, the substantive visa application in relation to the BVA must not be a protection visa. You need to be in Australia when making the application.

Further, you need to show that you have a compelling need to work, by showing that you are currently in financial hardship because the cost of your living expenses exceeds your ability to pay for them. For example, you may not have enough savings to pay for bills, groceries, and rental expenses. Further, you may not have any family members that can support you while you are in Australia.

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Australian Bridging Visas: An Essential Guide

Published: February 19, 2024 1 Comment

Australian Bridging Visas are temporary visas that allow you to stay in Australia legally while waiting for a visa decision or making plans to leave.

You can only be issued a bridging visa if you’re inside Australia. Tourists need a bridging visa to extend their stay in Australia. In most such cases, a bridging visa will be issued automatically as part of a new substantive visa application.

There are 7 types of bridging visas. They are BVA, BVB, BVC, BVD, BVE, BVF, and BVR. Some of these are rare and only for fringe cases. Tourists may be interested in BVA, BVC, BVD, and BVE.

Table of Contents

What is a bridging visa.

A bridging visa is a temporary visa that allows you to remain lawful in Australia after your substantive visa ends. In a way, they link, or bridge , two regular visas. 

An issued bridging visa comes into effect when your current substantive visa ceases and until you obtain a new substantive visa or depart Australia (except for BVB). You must be in Australia when applying for a bridging visa. All bridging visas are free.

Some people live in Australia for years on a bridging visa while waiting for a decision on their substantive visa application or judicial review. For ordinary tourists, a bridging visa will be issued if you decide to extend your stay in Australia by applying for a new visa.  

What is a Substantive Visa?

A substantive visa is the official term for a regular Australian visa . All visas, except for bridging visas, enforcement visas, and criminal justice visas are substantive.

What kinds of Bridging Visas are there?

There are 7 kinds of bridging visas with slight differences in use, rules, and entitlements.

Bridging Visa A (BVA)

Bridging Visa A is what most tourists would get when they apply for a new visa to extend their stay in Australia. 

It is applied for automatically when you make a valid application for a substantive visa if your current one hasn’t expired yet. In most circumstances, it is also granted automatically.

It comes into effect the moment your substantive visa ceases. It remains valid until:

• You leave Australia
• Your new substantive visa has been approved
• You get a Bridging Visa B

If the substantial visa you apply for is refused, Bridging Visa A remains valid for 35 days after. You must leave Australia within these 35 days.

Bridging Visa B (BVB)

Bridging Visa B allows you to travel out of Australia and return within a specified period. This is the only bridging visa that allows you to return to Australia if you leave.

You have to apply for bridging visa B, it’s not granted automatically like BVA. You can apply while holding either a substantive visa or a BVA. 

You will have to convince Home Affairs that you need to travel out of Australia. This also means that it’s highly unlikely a BVB will be granted to a genuine tourist.

Bridging Visa C (BVC)

You will automatically apply for Bridging Visa C if you apply for a substantive visa while NOT holding a valid substantive visa. Most BVCs are also automatically granted.

In all other regards, BVC is similar to BVA.

As a tourist. you may need a BVC if you overstayed your visitor visa, and then applied for another substantive visa. I don’t recommend you overstay any visa in the hopes of staying longer on a bridging visa.

Bridging Visa D (BVD)

You may apply for a Bridging Visa D if you tried to lodge an application for a new substantive visa but some problem occurred and your current visa will expire within 3 business days.

Bridging Visa D is valid for 5 business days to allow you to successfully apply for the substantive visa. You will be regarded as a “Prospective Applicant”.

You must’ve genuinely tried to apply when you encountered an issue. Examples of such problems are:

• You didn’t pay the correct visa fee
• You filled out an incorrect form
• There is no available officer to interview you

As a tourist, you shouldn’t wait until the last few days to apply for a new visa. If you don’t leave this until the last 3 days of your current visa, you won’t need a Bridging Visa D at all.

Bridging Visa E (BVE)

You may apply for Bridging Visa E if you’re currently in Australia without a valid visa (i.e. you’re unlawful) and want to make arrangements to leave the country.

The BVE is a last resort for most people after they’ve exhausted all other visa options. It usually comes with strict conditions, reporting requirements, and is seen as an act of clemency instead of getting placed in detention and deported forcefully

As a tourist, if your visitor visa expires and you haven’t made an attempt to apply for a new substantive visa, it’s in your best interest to apply for a Bridging Visa E as soon as possible and make plans to leave Australia.

Bridging Visa F (BVF)

Bridging Visa F is issued only to subjects of human trafficking, modern slavery, or other serious international crimes. As such, it is of no interest to tourists.

Bridging Visa R (BVR)

Bridging Visa R is issued to people who are in immigration detention but because of practical considerations cannot be deported. Australia’s High Court ruled indefinite immigration detention as unlawful in late 2023, thus creating the need for this bridging visa. BVR is of no interest to tourists.

Work Rights

As a genuine tourist, you don’t have the right to work in Australia to begin with. You will not have any work rights under any bridging visa either.

Work rights may be given in exceptional circumstances if you show that you’re in financial hardship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i use a bridging visa to stay in australia longer.

The primary purpose of a bridging visa is so that you remain lawful while waiting on a decision for a new substantive visa or while planning to leave Australia. Yes, it allows you to stay longer, but you shouldn’t rely on it to keep staying in Australia as a tourist.

What to do if my Visitor Visa is expiring soon?

Either leave Australia or apply for a new substantive visa in which case you will most likely be granted Bridging Visa A.

What to do if I have overstayed my Visitor Visa?

You can either apply for a new substantive visa and be granted a Bridging Visa C or apply for Bridging Visa E and make plans to leave Australia as soon as possible.

How long can I stay on a bridging visa if my substantive visa application is refused?

For BVA, BVB, and BVC, you can stay up to 35 days after your new substantive visa application is refused.

On a BVE, you must make plans to leave Australia promptly.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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Sarah Samith says

March 4, 2024 at 12:03 pm

This was really helpful , as I was looking where I can find some article about this! Thank you for sharing!

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Bridging visas are transitory visas which allow you to remain in Australia for a period of time between visa applications or until you make arrangements to depart Australia. They keep you in Australia lawfully until your formal visa status is resolved.

You cannot be granted a bridging visa if you are outside Australia.

You generally apply for a bridging visa as part of an application made in Australia for another substantive visa without needing to make a separate application. The bridging visa is then granted by operation of law for the period of time it takes to grant or refuse the application. Eligible family members who applied for the substantive visa with you will be granted the same bridging visa with the same conditions.

There are six bridging visa types all of which have slightly different entitlements attached.

A bridging visa generally has the same conditions as your previous visa. For example, if you had a permission to work on your previous visa you are likely to have a permission to work on your bridging visa. If your previous visa did not include work rights, then your bridging visa will not permit you to work noting that you may be able to apply for a new bridging visa with work rights.

Strategic considerations

COVID-19 WARNING

If you are in Australia and your current visa is ending and you cannot depart because of COVID-19 travel restrictions, you need to apply for a new visa or risk being placed in immigration detention pending deportation. You should NOT under any circumstances apply for a Bridging visa E (BVE) if you have any other visa options.

Specifically, if you cannot leave Australian because of COVID-19 travel restrictions we advise you to apply for a Subclass 408 visa.

Using bridging visas strategically

The time that it takes to decide a visa can be extensive as it includes the time it takes the Department of Home Affairs to process the application, the time that it takes the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to decide your review application, the time it takes for the Minister to decide whether to intervene in your visa process, and the time it takes the Federal Circuit Court and then the Full Federal Court to finally decide your application for judicial review of the initial decision.

Speaking bluntly, many people live and work in Australia for many years as bridging visa holders while waiting for a visa application to be finally decided on the basis of the law. This period allows people to work, get married, live an ordinary life, and meet the legal requirements for permanent residence while waiting for the visa to be decided.

Bridging visas and the review process can be used strategically to remain in Australia while you become eligible to migrate.

Bridging visas can be both simple and highly complex and we encourage you to contact VisAustralia if you have questions about your legal status in Australia.

Bridging visa A (BVA) – subclass 010

The Bridging visa A (BVA) is the most common bridging visa. It is granted automatically when you make a valid application for a substantive visa while in Australia.

It allows you to stay in Australia lawfully after your current visa ceases and while your new substantive visa application is being processed. A BVA springs into life when your old visa expires, and before that you must continue to comply with the conditions of the substantive visa including continuing to study and completing any course under a Student visa.

A BVA ends immediately if one of the following occurs:

• you leave Australia while your BVA is in effect;
• you are granted the substantive visa you applied for;
• you are granted another Bridging visa (such as a BVB) in relation to the same substantive visa application;
• the Department of Home Affairs cancels a substantive visa that you hold.

Work rights

You may be allowed to work on your BVA depending on the applicable visa conditions. If your BVA does not let you work, or has work restrictions, you may be able to apply for a second BVA with work rights if you can demonstrate you are in financial hardship.

Travel rights

If you leave Australia while holding a BVA the visa will cease, and you will not be able to return. If you need to travel, you need to apply for a Bridging visa B before leaving or apply for a new visa from outside Australia.

For more information visit: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au .

These are some of the common eligibility criteria:

• you must hold or have held a substantive visa;
• you need to be in Australia when you apply;
• you must have made a valid application for a substantive visa or merits or judicial review within the prescribed timeframes;
• you must meet character requirements.

A BVA will be granted automatically when you make a valid application onshore for a substantive visa while holding a valid substantive visa.

There are no separate government fees associated with making an application for a BVA.

Bridging visa B (BVB) – subclass 020

A Bridging visa B (BVB) allows you to depart and return to Australia during a specified travel period while waiting for a substantive visa application to be decided.

BVB’s can be granted for between three and 12 months depending on the reasons for your travel.

You may be able to work on your BVB if the substantive visa or the BVA that you held had work rights.

If you want to change conditions on your BVB you will need to apply for a new bridging visa with work rights As part of this application you will need to demonstrate that you are in financial hardship.

For more information visit: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

• you must have held a substantive visa;
• you must already hold a BVA or a BVB;
• you must have a substantial reason for wanting to leave and return to Australia;

Processing times are not available for this visa.

This visa costs AUD$155.

Please note that the above amount does not include related costs or the professional fees of an immigration lawyer/agent.

Bridging visa C (BVC) – subclass 030

A Bridging visa C (BVC) is granted if you are hold a bridging visa or are an unlawful non-citizen when you lodge a valid application for a substantive visa.

A BVC ceases if the following occurs:

• you leave Australia while your BVC is in effect;
• you are granted another bridging visa in relation to the same substantive visa application; or
• the Department of Home Affairs cancels your BVC or another substantive visa that you held.

If your BVC does not let you work, or has restrictions on working, you can apply for another BVC that lets you work. To be considered for a BVC that allows you to work, you will need to demonstrate you are experiencing financial hardship.

You are not permitted to travel outside Australia with this visa. If you leave Australia while holding a BVC you will not be permitted to return on this visa but would need to apply for a new visa from outside Australia.

• you must not hold a Bridging visa E (BVE) and you must not have held a BVE since you last held a substantive visa;
• when you lodged your application for a new substantive visa, you must not have held a substantive visa;
• you meet character requirements.

Processing times are not available for this visa. Depending on your situation, a BVC may be granted automatically or after you make a separate application for the BVC.

There are no separate government fees associated with making an application for a BVC.

Bridging visa D (BVD) – subclass 041

The Bridging visa D (BVD) is a short term visa valid for 5 days. It is granted to people with no valid substantive visa or to people whose substantive visa will expire in 3 working days.

A BVD permits you to stay in Australia lawfully for a short time until to prepare and make a new visa application, make arrangements to leave Australia, or are granted a Bridging visa E.

This visa does not give work rights in any circumstances. If you work on a BVD your BVD may be cancelled.

You are not allowed to travel with this visa. If you leave Australia while holding a BVD you will not be able to return unless you apply for a new visa from outside Australia.

• you must be present in Australia to apply for this visa;
• you must not hold a substantive visa or the substantive you held should be expiring within three working days.

The BVD has no defined processing time an is dependent on the individual case.

The BVD carries no government application charge.

You may have to pay additional fees if you require professional assistance with the visa application process from an immigration lawyer/agent.

Bridging visa E (BVE) – subclass 051

The Bridging Visa E (BVE) is a visa of last resort generally granted to unlawful non-citizens to allow for a graceful departure from Australia in preference to being placed in immigration detention pending deportation. They are also granted to people waiting for the final resolution of other visa processes including Ministerial Intervention.

A BVE can be granted with very specific conditions including regular and intrusive reporting conditions, no work and no study conditions, the obligation to apply for a new BVE every three months or go into immigration detention or be deported, and restrictions on applying for any further substantive visa while in Australia.

You should not under any circumstances apply for a BVE if you have any other visa options. Specifically, if you cannot leave Australian because of COVID-19 travel restrictions you should apply for a Subclass 408 visa rather than a BVE.

If your BVE visa does not have work rights, you can apply for a new BVE with work rights if you can establish you are in financial hardship.

The Australian Government has a predisposition not to give people work rights on this visa.

You are not allowed to travel with this visa. If you leave Australia while holding a BVE you will not be able to return unless you apply for a new visa from outside Australia.

• you must be an unlawful non-citizen, the holder of a BVE, or the holder of a BVD when you apply for this visa;

Processing times are unavailable for this visa.

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Get Your Australian Bridging Visa B or Subclass 020 Process Simplified

Turn your study abroad dream to degrees abroad, bridging visa b or subclass 020, bridging visa b australia eligibility criteria.

• Hold a Substantive visa:  You must have previously held a Substantive visa.
• Hold a BVA or a BVB:  You must currently hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
• Have applied for a substantive visa or judicial review:  You must have applied for a substantive visa or judicial review within the prescribed time frame.
• Have substantial reasons for wanting to travel:  You must provide a valid reason and attach any supporting documents to explain why you need to depart and return to Australia while your substantive visa is being considered or while you are waiting for the outcome of a judicial review.
• Age:  There are no age restrictions for applying for this visa.
• Meet character requirement:  You must meet the character requirement as specified by Australian immigration laws. This includes having no criminal convictions or other character issues that may affect your eligibility for the visa.

A Bridging Visa B (BVB) becomes effective in the following situations:

• It is granted, either because your substantive visa has ceased since applying for the BVB, or because the BVB is more beneficial than your current bridging visa.
• Your current substantive visa ceases.

As a visa holder, you must comply with the conditions imposed on your visa. If you are granted a BVB, you will be informed about the conditions that apply. If you still hold a substantive visa when your BVB is granted, you must continue to adhere to the conditions of the substantive visa. Once your substantive visa ceases, the conditions of your BVB will come into effect. So, it's important to be aware of and comply with the conditions of your BVB once it becomes active. It's always best to stay informed about the requirements of your visa and any changes that may affect your immigration status.

Steps to follow during judicial review

• Remain lawfully in Australia until a final decision is made on your substantive visa application, or until any associated judicial proceedings are completed.
• Depart from and re-enter Australia within the specified travel period while your application for a substantive visa is being processed.
• Make sure to comply with all the relevant immigration laws and regulations, and provide accurate and complete information in your visa application to ensure a smooth process.

How long can you stay?

The duration of your BVB will be determined by one of the following outcomes:

• Your substantive visa application is refused.
• Your merits or judicial review is decided.
• You withdraw your application for the substantive visa, merits review, or judicial review.
• A merits review tribunal informs you that it has no jurisdiction to consider your application for review.
• Immigration grants  you the substantive visa that the BVB is associated with.
• Immigration cancelsl your BVB or the substantive visa that you held when you were granted a BVB.
• It's important to be aware of these factors and stay updated on the status of your visa application or review process to ensure compliance with immigration regulations. Seek professional assistance if needed for a smooth and successful immigration journey.

Extending your stay in Australia is not possible with this visa. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa and explore your visa options accordingly.

If you and your family have applied for a substantive visa together in Australia, you can include them in your BVB application as long as they are members of your family unit. This means you and your family only need to complete one application form and pay one visa application charge. However, each family member must meet the requirements for a BVB individually.

It's important to only include family members in your BVB application who have substantial reasons for needing to travel outside Australia. If some of your family members do not need to travel, they can continue to stay in Australia on their current bridging visas. Seek professional advice if needed to ensure compliance with immigration regulations and smooth processing of your visa applications.

Cost & processing time for Bridging Visa B

The application fee for the BVB is AUD165. It is important to note that for your application to be considered valid and for your visa to be granted, both you and any other individuals included in your BVB application must be physically present within Australia.

Processing Time

Unfortunately, processing times are not available for BVB visas.

However, please note that your application may take longer to process if:

• The application form is not filled in correctly.
• All the required documents are not included or further information is needed from you.
• Verification of your information takes additional time.
• To ensure the smooth and timely processing of your application, make sure to accurately complete the application form and provide all the necessary documents as per the requirements. Stay responsive to any requests for additional information from the immigration authorities to avoid delays in processing your BVB application.

Your responsibilities

As the visa holder, and anyone included in your BVB application, you must:

• Comply with all Australian laws.
• Adhere to the conditions of your current visa.
• Abide by the conditions of your BVB once it comes into effect.
• It is important to strictly comply with all applicable laws and visa conditions to maintain compliance with immigration regulations in Australia. Failure to do so may result in visa cancellation or other legal consequences.

Work and Travel

The conditions that apply to your BVB will be communicated to you upon visa grant.

Travel Period

When your BVB is granted, the specified travel period will be indicated to you. It is important to be aware of this period as it determines when your BVB will cease.

Renewal of BVB

If your BVB's specified travel period has ended and you need to travel outside of Australia again, you will have to apply for a new BVB and be granted the visa before departing Australia.

If you are outside of Australia when the specified travel period on your BVB ends, the visa will cease, and you will not be able to return to Australia on a ceased BVB. It is crucial to plan your travel accordingly and ensure that your BVB remains valid throughout your intended travel period.

What Are Bridging Visa B Requirements?

Pre-Application

Before applying for a BVB, check whether you possess a BVA or BVB and ensure that your passport is valid. You should apply for your BVB no earlier than three months and no later than two weeks before your intended travel date.

Collect Required Documents

Collect all the necessary documents required for your BVB application.

Apply for the Visa

The process of applying for a BVB depends on how you applied for your substantive visa, whether online or by paper form, and whether you have applied for a review of a decision on your substantive visa application. You must apply for the BVB in the same way you applied for your substantive visa.

If you applied for your substantive visa through ImmiAccount, you must also apply for your BVB through ImmiAccount. However, if you applied for your substantive visa by paper form or have applied for a review of a decision on your substantive visa application, you must submit your BVB application by web form.

Both you and anyone included in your application must be in Australia when you lodge the BVB application.

Post-Application

After applying for the BVB, see what actions are necessary and recommended.

Visa Outcome

Our decision on the BVB application will be communicated to you in writing. To be granted a BVB, you must be in Australia when the decision is made. If your BVB application is successful, we will provide you with the visa grant number, visa start date, and visa conditions (if any). Make sure to keep a copy of this information with you while in Australia.

Ready to explore your options with the Australian Bridging Visa B or Subclass 020? Contact AECC today for expert guidance and support throughout your visa application process.

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Bridging Visa

A bridging visa is a temporary visa that let you stay in Australia lawfully while you are issued with a new substantive visa or while you make arrangements to leave the country.

The type of bridging visa  The Department of Home Affairs  might grant you depends on your circumstances.

Bridging visas are only granted and valid while you are in Australia. Once you decide to travel overseas Australia they will cease once you leave the country. The only exception to this rule is BVB that has a travel facility attached allowing you to travel overseas and come back.

Australian Bridging Visas Types

There are several types of bridging visas (A to E) all of which have strict requirements on what a holder can do while in the country. You cannot apply for a bridging visa if you are overseas.

Bridging Visa A (BVA)

This is the most common bridging visa, most of the time sitting ‘silently’ at the back of your substantive visa application.

It is granted automatically when you make a valid application onshore for a substantive visa while still holding a valid previous substantive visa.

BVA carries over working rights from your previous visa. So if your previous student visa had 20 hours limitation, so will your BVA. There are some exceptions.

How long is it valid?

• when your new substantive visa is granted
• when the new bridging visa is granted (e.g. BVB) in relation to the same substantive visa application
• if your currently held substantive visa is cancelled so is your BVA at the same time once you leave Australia
• 28 days after your valid visa application has been withdrawn and there is no other substantive visa you currently hold.
• 28 days after your you have been notified that your substantive visa application is invalid
• 28 days after the  refusal of your substantive visa application
• 28 days after a decision of  Administrative Appeals Tribunal  (formerly Migration Review Tribunal) in the case when you decide to appeal to case officer’s decision

Travel allowed: No

Bridging Visa B (BVB)

BVB shares the majority of characteristics with BVA. The main distinction between them, however, is that BVB is the only bridging visa that lets you travel overseas and return.

How to apply and when granted

You have to apply on a special form while holding a valid BVA. BVB can be also granted after your substantive visa application has been refused and you need to urgently leave Australia while a judicial review that you have applied for is underway.

Typical scenario

After you have applied for a substantive visa you suddenly need to travel overseas due to urgent family event. If you expect to return to Australia after your current visa expires, make sure that you apply for and are granted BVB before leaving Australia.

This bridging visa is usually only valid for three months, so a person will have to be back in Australia before it expires.

Bridging Visa E (BVE)

Bridging visa E  can be granted when:

• you have overstayed your visa and are voluntarily making arrangements to depart Australia
• you have applied, or are about to apply, for a substantive visa while having no valid visa at the moment
• you have no valid visa have written to the Minister seeking Ministerial intervention
• you are in immigration detention and satisfy the Minister that you are eligible for grant of a BVE
• You have been located by Immigration without a valid visa and the immigration officer determines that you are eligible for a BVE.

However, under some circumstances a person will never be eligible for BVE, for example :

• at the airport, upon arrival in Australia when they have not been immigration cleared
• their previous BVE has been cancelled due to criminal offences

A person cannot stay in the country on a bridging visa indefinitely.

This visa is only a temporary short-term visa granted by the immigration department while the holder has his/her outstanding immigration matter resolved. It should never be considered a solution to an Australian immigration issue.

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Travel permission on bridging visa C (BVC)

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Hi, I am on bridging visa C for processing partner visa 820 and I need to leave australia for finishing my Phd. However it's mentioned on immigration site that BVC can't apply BVB to travel. I applied for BVB because the option was on my profile but I'm not sure if I will be granted or not. I was wondering what's any other option for me now? for example should I apply for a tourist visa in Australia or leave Australia without getting BVB. Can you suggest me anything, please? Thank you  

You probably need to ask for special permission. I have read this: Subclass 030 or the Bridging visa C does not come with any travel rights, nor is an applicant allowed to apply for a subclass 020 or the Bridging visa B to avail travelling rights. A Bridging visa C holder can not leave Australia on this visa; in case a necessity arises, the applicant will be required to contact the Department for the same.  

JandE said: You probably need to ask for special permission. I have read this: Subclass 030 or the Bridging visa C does not come with any travel rights, nor is an applicant allowed to apply for a subclass 020 or the Bridging visa B to avail travelling rights. A Bridging visa C holder can not leave Australia on this visa; in case a necessity arises, the applicant will be required to contact the Department for the same. Click to expand...

I recommend you get some professional advice to work out the best course of action in your circumstances.  

And where are you planning to go?  

As far as I know, to leave Australia for a specific purpose related to work or study, there is no need to obtain another type of visa. But I could be wrong. You really should contact a consultant on these issues. I just remember that when my friend moved from Australia, he needed to get some documents, but it wasn't a visa. He was more worried about who would transport his things. Found a good company in the end; Get More Information here if you're interested. If you want, I can give you my friend's contacts and ask him. Good luck! I hope you will succeed.  

daseder said: As far as I know, to leave Australia for a specific purpose related to work or study, there is no need to obtain another type of visa. Click to expand...

Hi, I was in same situation about 2 years ago. I was on BridgingvisaC for partner visa and my family was critical situation at the moment. Then, I asked to Immigration if it‘s possible to leave Australia for while to visit my family. However, they told me it’s not possible to leave because I had BVC even if I have on serious situation. I also asked professional support, however there was no other options.. then, my family had gone and I tried to attend to funeral for him, but I couldn’t. So I know it’a pretty frustrating for you..but only thing you can do is you have to wait till your visa is ready.  

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Your guide to Australian visa changes for 2024-25

Under the government's migration strategy, the age limit on some visas will be reduced and a ballot process will be introduced for others..

A range of new measures will affect visa holders from 1 July. Credit: SBS

From language tests to age limits: The key Australian visa changes for 2024

What visa changes are coming into effect on 1 July?

Visa ballot process.

Australia’s visa fee for international students has more than doubled

A new visa for young Indian professionals

Federal government seeks power to impose cap on international student numbers

Onshore student visa applications

• Temporary Graduate (subclass 485)
• Visitor (subclass 600)
• Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601)
• Medical Treatment (subclass 602)
• eVisitor (subclass 651)
• Maritime Crew (subclass 988)

Government further tightens student visa applications to stop 'visa hopping'

Temporary Graduate visas

• Graduate Work Stream → becomes the Post-Vocational Education Work stream
• Post-Study Work Stream → becomes the Post-Higher Education stream
• Second Post-Study Work Stream → becomes the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream
• Replacement Stream → removed

Caps on international students won't just be a headache for universities

Temporary skills visas

• Temporary Work (Skilled) (subclass 457)
• Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional) (subclass 494)
• 180 days at a time, or
• A maximum of 365 days in total across the entire visa grant period.

Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)

What other changes are ahead in 2024, skills in demand visa.

• Specialist Skills: fast-tracks applications from high-earning professionals with skills in areas like technology and green energy industries
• Core Skills: focuses on areas with shortages, to simplify the application process and create an occupation list designed to be regularly updated
• Essential Skills: targets lower-paid workers in critical sectors like aged care

A new National Innovation visa

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Jenny Zhang has plans to travel to China soon to reunite with her 100-year-old mum, and she has welcomed a move to give Australians visa-free entry for short trips.

"This is the best policy. It will provide great convenience to Chinese people living in Australia," she said.

"The Chinese community is very happy about this news."

The 15-day visa-free travel for Australians was announced by Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Monday, after a formal meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

"We agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to five-year multiple entry visas for tourism, business and visiting family members — so as to better facilitate personal exchanges, China will also include Australia in its Visa Waiver Program," the premier said.

This change will also save Australians about $110, the current cost for a single-entry tourist visa.

The new visa-free travel scheme is due to come in within the next few months.

China's tourism industry peaked in 2019 at a value of $580 billion and has been recovering slowly, according to Statista.

They had forecast that it could take another five years to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels.

Not everyone happy with move

While Ms Zhang was thrilled with the upcoming change, Ramila Chanisheff, the president of the Australian Uyghur Tangritagh Women's Association said it would not help members of her community.

"Our family members … we can not even talk to them — let alone visit them," she told the ABC.

"Not all of us will be given visas to visit our family members. And if we do, we will be worried about our safety."

Dawa Sangmo, the Chinese liaison officer of the Tibet Information Office in Canberra raised similar worries.

"The visa-free policy is not only an issue that relates to our safety, but a matter that is more beneficial to China and its government," she told the ABC.

There was not much detail in the announcement, but Premier Li did mention it would be "reciprocal", making it easier for Chinese travellers to enter Australia.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the second highest amount of tourists visiting Australia came from China, only behind arrivals from New Zealand, as of April this year.

However, overall, the amount of people travelling out of China is down 40 per cent from pre-COVID levels in 2019, Reuters reported.

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