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Everything you need to know about Australian bridging visas

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What are Bridging Visas?

Learn everything you need to know about bridging visas, including the different types, eligibility criteria, and the application process - including all about BVA, BVB, BVC, BVD & BVE visas.

Bridging Visas: Your Bridge to Continued Stay in Australia

One of the most important things that you need when studying in Australia is the correct visa. An Australian Bridging Visa can be used for different purposes, but it is best known for allowing you to “bridge” the gap between a former visa and the visa that you are applying for. In short, this visa is a temporary one, which will allow you to legally stay in Australia while you are waiting for a substantive visa to be processed.

What are Bridging Visas?

Bridging visas are temporary visas granted to individuals who are lawfully present in Australia while they await a decision on another visa application. They serve as a bridge between your current visa and the new visa you are applying for. These visas ensure that you can remain in Australia without breaching visa regulations while your substantive visa application is being processed.

A Bridging Visa can have different purposes and can be granted for a number of reasons:

If your original visa has expired and you are currently awaiting approval of your substantive visa,
If you are awaiting a court decision on an appeal about your visa,
If you are awaiting an Administrative Appeals Tribunal decision on a visa refusal or cancellation,
If you have requested a Ministerial Intervention, or
If you are unlawfully staying in Australia but are arranging to depart Australia voluntarily.

If you are ready to get started on your bridging visa journey - talk to us now!

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Types of Bridging Visas

Bridging Visa A (BVA) Subclass 010

A Bridging Visa A (BVA) allows you to stay in Australia after your current substantive visa has expired and while your substantive visa application is being processed. It can be granted if you apply in Australia for a substantive visa while you are still using a current substantive visa. A BVA does not allow you to return to Australia if you leave.

You can work on this visa, provided you meet the work eligibility requirements.

Bridging Visa B (BVB) Subclass 020

Bridging Visa B (BVB) is a temporary visa that allows you to depart and return to Australia while awaiting the approval of your application for a substantive visa. The BVB will allow you to stay in Australia while you await the processing of your substantive visa.

With this visa, you can travel in and out of Australia during the specified travel period while your substantive visa application is being processed. Work rights are permitted if your Bridging Visa B allows it.

Bridging Visa C (BVC) Subclass 030

Bridging Visa C (BVC) is a temporary visa for non-Australians who wish to file a valid application for a substantive visa. This may be applicable for those who have overstayed in Australia and want to make their stay lawful.

You are allowed to work on this visa, as long as you meet the necessary work requirements. You do not have travel rights if you are holding a BVC, meaning if you leave Australia, you may not be allowed to return.

Bridging Visa D (BVD) Subclass 040 and 041

A Bridging Visa D (BVD) is granted when someone tried but was unable to apply for a substantive visa.

A Bridging Visa D (BVD) will allow you to stay in Australia for a short period if your substantive visa has expired. This period is just sufficient to enable you to submit a substantive visa application, prepare to leave Australia, or to be granted a Bridging Visa E (BVE).

A BVD does not allow you to work in Australia or return if you depart Australia.

Bridging Visa E (BVE) Subclass 050 and 051

Bridging Visa E (BVE) allows you to stay in Australia lawfully if your substantive visa has expired or you are awaiting an immigration decision. It allows you to prepare to leave or finalise immigration concerns.

This visa will not allow you to re-enter if you leave.

Becoming familiar with Bridging Visas is especially important for international students in Australia. For more information about this visa, contact our friendly counsellors today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for PR while on a bridging visa?

Yes! Holders of an Australian bridging visa can now easily apply for a permanent residency (PR) visa while on their bridging visa. Specifically, you may be eligible to apply for a skilled work permanent visa. However, it's important to note that this does not guarantee approval for permanent residency. For more information, feel free to consult with our registered migration agents.

How much is a bridging visa in Australia?

In Australia, a Bridging Visa (such as Bridging Visa A, B, C, D, E) is typically free of charge. However, Bridging Visa B (BVB), which allows you to leave and re-enter Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed, has a fee of AUD 185 (as on 18 September 2024).

It's always good to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest fee updates, as they can change.

How to apply for bridging visa in Australia?

Here are the general steps to apply for a Bridging Visa in Australia:

1. Confirm your Eligibility
2. Determine the Appropriate Bridging Visa
3. Gather Necessary Documents
4. Submit Your Application Online (via ImmiAccount)
5. Await the Decision
6. Adhere to Visa Conditions