What Is a Bridging Visa and When Do You Need One?

You probably have heard of a bridging visa from your family and friends while they wait for their visa to be decided. This is where a bridging visa comes into play to ensure that they can continue to stay in Australia. But what exactly is a Bridging Visa, and when do you need one?

What is a Bridging Visa?

A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa (not a substantive visa) that allows you to stay lawfully in Australia, while your current visa application is being processed and assessed by the Department of Home Affairs (DoHA). Think of it as a bridge that keeps you in Australia lawfully during this transitional period.

Are There Different Types of Bridging Visas?

There are several types of bridging visas that are designed to serve different purposes:

Bridging Visa A (BVA) (Subclass 010): is usually granted when you apply for a new visa while holding a valid visa.
Bridging Visa B (BVB) (Subclass 020): allows you to travel outside of Australia for a specific time while your visa application is being assessed.
Bridging Visa C (BVC) (Subclass 030): for individuals who lodge specific visa applications while not holding a substantive visa.
Bridging Visa D (BVD) (Subclass 040 and 041): granted for a very short period for emergencies where immediate legal status is required.
Bridging Visa E (BVE) (Subclass 050 and 051): for applicants who are unlawful or have pending applications, especially when waiting to depart or resolve their immigration status.
Bridging Visa R (BVR) (Subclass 070): is a special type of bridging visa for people in immigration detention but their removal from Australia is not feasible.

When Do You Need a Bridging Visa?

You might need a bridging visa in the following situations:

When your visa expires and you have lodged a new visa application, a bridging visa allows you to stay legally in Australia.
If your visa is cancelled , invalid, or unlawfully in Australia, a BVE can allow you to stay lawfully while seeking a resolution or arranging departure.
When you are waiting for a visa decision from the Department, the role of the bridging visa is to maintain your lawful status in Australia.
If you hold a BVA, obtaining a BVB allows you to travel outside Australia temporarily.

How Can Agape Henry Crux Help

A bridging visa is essential for individuals who wish to stay in Australia lawfully while waiting for their substantive visa to be decided. If you are in a complex situation, consider speaking with one of our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law - Jason Ling or Angela De Silva at Agape Henry Crux for professional advice and assistance. You can schedule an appointment with one of our immigration lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.

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