If you’re living in Australia and your current visa is about to expire, or you’re awaiting an immigration decision, you might be looking into what happens next. At Remitly, we understand that juggling visa applications with everyday life can be stressful. Bridging visas offer you a temporary solution, giving you peace of mind so you can stay in Australia legally while you finalise the next steps.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of Bridging Visas, including common types, eligibility criteria, and how you can avoid common mistakes. Whether you’re applying from within Australia or switching between visa subclasses, understanding how Bridging Visas work can help you feel more prepared.
An overview of Bridging Visas
Bridging Visas are temporary visas that allow you to stay in Australia legally while you wait for your immigration decision to be processed. They fill the gap between your current visa and a new one, so you don’t have to worry about your status.
With a Bridging Visa, you can often continue your usual life, such as working or studying, while the Department of Home Affairs processes your application.
What is a Bridging Visa?
A Bridging Visa gives you legal permission to stay in Australia after your current visa expires and until you receive a government decision on a new one. Most long-term visas take time to process, so the Bridging Visa acts as a short-term solution for you to stay in the country legally.
Why are Bridging Visas important?
The main reason people choose to apply for Bridging Visas is to protect themselves from staying in Australia illegally, which could lead to serious consequences like detention and removal. They provide much-needed peace of mind for immigrants while their partner visa, student visa, or other types of visa applications move through each processing stage.
When do you need a Bridging Visa?
There are several situations where you might need to use a Bridging Visa, including:
- Your visa is expiring, and you’re still waiting for a decision on your application for permanent residency.
- You’ve applied for a different visa and need to remain in Australia legally while it’s being processed.
- You’re awaiting a review of a visa refusal.
Each person’s situation is unique, so make sure you know which Bridging Visa applies to your circumstances and avoid any pitfalls.
Different types of Bridging Visas
Not all Bridging Visas are the same. Each one is designed for different situations. Your choice will depend on your current visa status, whether you need to travel, and your work rights.
To find out which Bridging Visa is right for you, review your current status, the reason for your new visa application, and whether you need to travel outside Australia.
Bridging Visa A (BVA): for those who already hold a visa
If you apply for a new visa while still holding a valid substantive visa, then a Bridging Visa A (BVA) is the option for you. For example, if you’re on a student visa and apply for a partner visa before your student visa expires, a BVA will allow you to stay in Australia legally while your new visa is processed.
A few points to consider include:
- You must be in Australia when you apply
- BVA typically doesn’t allow international travel—if you leave, your BVA may expire
- Work rights can differ depending on the conditions of your pending visa application
Bridging Visa B (BVB): for those who need to travel
A Bridging Visa B (BVB) is your go-to option if you need to travel overseas temporarily while awaiting the outcome of a substantive visa application in Australia. It allows you to leave and return within a specific travel period.
- You’ll need a valid reason for travel, such as family emergencies or official commitments
- You must apply for your BVB before leaving Australia
- If approved, you’ll receive a specific travel window—be careful not to exceed it, as you may not be able to return.
Bridging Visa C (BVC): for those who applied without a valid visa
A Bridging Visa C (BVC) is issued if you apply for a new visa while already on a Bridging Visa or if your previous visa expired before you lodged your application.
- It generally doesn’t allow travel rights
- Work rights may be limited unless you can show financial hardship
- BVC keeps you legally in Australia while your new visa application is processed
Bridging Visa E (BVE): for complex immigration situations
A Bridging Visa E (BVE) is often used in more complicated cases—for example, your visa has already expired, you’re awaiting an appeal, or you need extra time to arrange your departure from Australia.
- Typically includes strict conditions, such as limited work rights or mandatory check-ins with authorities
- You may not be able to re-enter Australia if you leave
- This is usually the last resort for individuals who need more time to resolve their immigration status.
Differences between Bridging visa types
The main differences include travel rights, work conditions, and how you came to be on a Bridging Visa. Every visa situation is unique, so always confirm your specific visa subclass and keep track of your expiry date.
How to apply for a Bridging Visa
Applying for a Bridging Visa doesn’t have to be stressful. In many cases, it happens automatically when you lodge a new substantive visa application. However, if you need specific conditions, such as permission to travel or work, you may need to apply separately.
Who can apply
To qualify for any Bridging Visa, you must have lodged (or be about to lodge) a valid application for a new visa or be in the process of resolving an immigration matter.
Your eligibility depends on:
- Your current status: If you hold a substantive visa and apply for another substantive visa, you’re usually automatically granted a BVA.
- Location: Most Bridging Visas require you to be in Australia at the time of application.
- Valid application: Ensure your new visa application meets all submission requirements, including deadlines, correct forms, and fees.
Steps to apply for a Bridging Visa
- Check your situation: Identify which Bridging Visa subclass suits your needs.
- Submit forms: If you’re applying for BVB (for travel), or if Bridging Visas aren’t granted automatically, complete the necessary forms via ImmiAccount.
- Include evidence: This could be your travel itinerary (for BVB) or proof of financial hardship (for extended work rights).
- Pay fees: Some Bridging Visas, such as BVB, may require a fee.
- Track your application: Processing times can vary, so monitor your status through your ImmiAccount or contact the Department of Home Affairs.
Common application mistakes
It’s normal to make mistakes when you’re a newcomer and feel worried about these legal processes. So make sure you know what to do if you make a mistake to avoid any delays.
- Missing deadlines: If your current visa expires before you apply, you risk becoming unlawful. Try to apply with plenty of time.
- Choosing the wrong visa subclass: Applying for the incorrect Bridging Visa can delay processing. Double-check which is the right one for you.
- Incomplete forms: Missing documents or incorrect details can lead to delays or even refusal. Spend extra time reviewing your application.
- Misunderstanding travel rules: If you leave Australia on the wrong Bridging Visa, you might not be allowed back in. If you plan to travel, ensure you have a valid BVB.
Benefits and limitations of Bridging Visas
Bridging visas allow you to stay in Australia without worrying about overstaying your visa. But they also come with certain rules and restrictions. Some Bridging Visas give you full work rights, while you might face limitations for both work and travel with others.
What are your rights on a Bridging Visa?
Your rights will depend on which Bridging Visa you hold. In most cases, your work and study conditions will be the same as your previous visa. However, you might have to look out for extra reporting requirements or restrictions with certain Bridging Visas.
Work and study rights
- BVA: You can usually keep working or studying under the same conditions as your original visa. If your BVA has restrictions, you might be able to request a change if you’re experiencing any financial struggles.
- BVB: Generally the same as your previous work conditions, and allows you to travel outside of Australia for short periods.
- BVC and BVE: Work rights are not guaranteed. You may need to demonstrate any financial problems to be given work permission.
Travel limitations and residency considerations
Travel is one of the biggest limitations for many Bridging Visa holders. If you leave Australia with a BVA, BVC, and BE, your visa will expire, and you might not be able to return without a new substantive visa.
If you’re planning to travel or need to leave for personal matters, try to apply for BVB as early as possible.
Remember that Bridging Visas don’t automatically lead to permanent residency. They’re simply a middle point while your new visa is processed or your immigration matter is resolved. If you’re looking for a long-term immigration pathway, consider exploring permanent visa options early on.
The importance of Bridging Visas
Bridging visas are a great safety net while you transition between visas. They offer valuable peace of mind for immigrants in Australia, but it’s important to understand their limitations and be proactive to avoid any stress.
Staying informed and seeking advice
Australia’s immigration rules can change, and Bridging Visas often have specific conditions. Keep an eye on government announcements or policy changes that affect Bridging Visas. Small shifts in the law may impact your rights, travel allowances, or ability to lodge a valid application.
Not all situations are straightforward. If you have questions about your Bridging Visa status, or if you’re worried about making mistakes, seek professional guidance. A registered migration agent can clarify work rights, Bridging Visa subclass conditions, or any unusual circumstance you face.
By staying proactive about your immigration status, you’ll stay in control of your immigration journey and reduce the stress that often comes with the unknown. Whether you’re waiting for a new visa or considering your long-term future in Australia, knowledge is your best tool for a smooth journey.
FAQs
How do Bridging Visas work?
A Bridging Visa gives you legal status in Australia after your existing visa expires or while you wait for an immigration decision. It fills the gap between two substantive visas or during a judicial review.
How long do you stay on a Bridging Visa?
Bridging Visas will generally remain in force until the Department of Home Affairs grants your new substantive visa application. Once a decision is made, the Bridging Visa ends with a short grace period.
What is the difference between Bridging Visas A and B?
A Bridging Visa A (BVA) doesn’t typically allow overseas travel, but a Bridging Visa B (BVB) lets you leave and return to Australia within a specified period of travel. Both keep you legally in the country while you wait for a visa decision.
What is the difference between Bridging Visas C and E?
A Bridging Visa C (BVC) is issued when you submit a substantive visa application and you have another Bridging Visa with or without travel permission. A Bridging Visa E (BVE) is typically in more complicated situations such as while you wait for a decision on specific immigration matters for which you have no other current valid visa.