When you’re applying for a visa in Australia, there may be times when your current visa expires before a new one is granted. In such cases, a Bridging Visa allows you to stay in Australia lawfully while your application is processed. At VisaTasker Pty Ltd, we help you understand the different types of Bridging Visas, their benefits, and the conditions attached to them.
What is a Bridging Visa?
A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa that enables you to remain in Australia while you wait for a decision on your substantive visa application, prepare to leave Australia, or finalize your immigration status. There are several types of Bridging Visas, each serving a specific purpose depending on your circumstances.
Types of Bridging Visas
1. Bridging Visa A (BVA) – Subclass 010
- Who it’s for: If you apply for a new visa while holding a valid visa, you’ll generally be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) automatically.
- Benefits: The BVA allows you to stay in Australia while your new visa application is being processed. However, it does not allow you to re-enter Australia if you leave.
- Conditions: You can continue to work or study in Australia under the same conditions as your previous visa.
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB) – Subclass 020
- Who it’s for: The BVB is for those who need to travel outside Australia while waiting for a decision on their substantive visa.
- Benefits: In addition to allowing you to stay in Australia while your visa is processed, the BVB permits you to leave and return to Australia during a specified travel period.
- Conditions: You must return to Australia before your travel period ends to maintain your lawful status.
3. Bridging Visa C (BVC) – Subclass 030
- Who it’s for: If you apply for a visa after your previous visa has expired, you may be granted a Bridging Visa C (BVC).
- Benefits: The BVC allows you to stay in Australia while your new visa application is being processed.
- Conditions: You generally cannot work or leave Australia on a BVC unless you apply for permission to do so.
4. Bridging Visa E (BVE) – Subclass 050 and 051
- Who it’s for: The BVE is for individuals who are unlawful non-citizens or those who have overstayed their visa.
- Benefits: The BVE allows you to remain lawfully in Australia while you finalize your immigration status, whether by applying for another visa or preparing to leave Australia.
- Conditions: You must comply with reporting requirements and conditions, which may include restrictions on work and travel.
Benefits of Bridging Visas
Bridging Visas provide several benefits, including:
- Lawful Stay: They allow you to remain lawfully in Australia while awaiting the outcome of your visa application or resolving your immigration status.
- Work and Study: Depending on the type of Bridging Visa, you may be able to continue working or studying in Australia, ensuring minimal disruption to your life.
- Travel Flexibility: For those with a BVB, you have the flexibility to travel outside Australia without jeopardizing your visa application.
Conditions and Compliance
It’s important to understand the conditions attached to your Bridging Visa, as non-compliance can have serious consequences, including visa cancellation or becoming unlawful. Some key conditions may include:
- No Work Condition: Some Bridging Visas do not allow you to work unless you apply for and are granted work rights.
- No Travel Condition: Most Bridging Visas do not allow you to travel outside Australia unless you hold a BVB or apply for permission.
- Reporting Requirements: You may be required to report regularly to the Department of Home Affairs, particularly if you hold a BVE.
Why Choose VisaTasker Pty Ltd?
Navigating the complexities of Bridging Visas can be challenging, especially when dealing with different visa conditions and requirements. At VisaTasker Pty Ltd, our agents are registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), and we provide expert advice to help you stay lawful and compliant while your visa application is processed.
Contact Us Today
Need help understanding your Bridging Visa options? Book a consultation with VisaTasker Pty Ltd, and let us guide you through the process to ensure your stay in Australia is lawful and hassle-free.