Australia Visa – Bridging – Bridging Visa B 020

1. What is a bridging visa for Australia?

A bridging visa is a temporary visa granted to non-citizens who are already in Australia and are waiting for a decision on their substantive visa application. It allows the holder to remain in the country lawfully during this processing period.

2. What types of bridging visas are available in Australia?
There are several types of bridging visas available in Australia, including:

– Bridging Visa A (BVA): This is the most common type of bridging visa, which allows the holder to stay in Australia after their current visa has expired while they await a decision on their new visa application.

– Bridging Visa B (BVB): This visa allows the holder to leave and re-enter Australia while their BVA is valid.

– Bridging Visa C (BVC): This visa is for applicants who do not hold a substantive visa and have had their previous visa cancelled or have overstayed their previous visa. It allows them to lawfully remain in Australia until a decision is made on their application or immigration status.

– Bridging Visa D (BVD): This is a short-term, emergency visa given to people whose current substantive visa has expired and they need time to make arrangements to depart from Australia.

– Bridging Visa E (BVE): This is a last resort option for people who do not hold a valid Australian visa but need time to make arrangements to leave the country. It is usually granted if there are compassionate or compelling circumstances beyond the applicant’s control.

3. How do I apply for a bridging visa?
To apply for a bridging visa, you must already be in Australia and have submitted an application for another substantive visa. You will automatically be considered for a BVA if your current visa expires before a decision is made on your new application. To apply for other types of bridging visas, you can submit an online application through your ImmiAccount or paper form through mail or at an immigration office.

4. How long does a bridging visa last?
The duration of a bridging visa can vary and depends on the type of bridging visa you hold. Some may only be valid for a few days, while others can be valid for several years.

5. Can I work on a bridging visa?
In most cases, yes, you can work on a bridging visa. However, there may be restrictions depending on the type of bridging visa you hold. For instance, a BVE holder is not allowed to work in Australia. It is important to check the conditions of your specific bridging visa before starting any work.

6. Can I travel outside of Australia on a bridging visa?
It depends on the type of bridging visa you hold. If you have a BVB, you can travel outside of Australia and return while your BVA is still valid. If you have any other type of BVA or BVC, leaving Australia may cancel your current bridging visa and affect your eligibility for another one.

7. Can I apply for another substantive visa while holding a bridging visa?
Yes, you can apply for another substantive visa while holding a bridging by meeting certain requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

8. What happens if my substantive visa application is refused while I am on a bridging visa?
If your substantive visa application is refused while holding a BVA or BVC, you will automatically become unlawful in Australia and be at risk of detention or removal from the country. If this happens, it is important to seek legal advice about your options immediately.

9. Are there any health requirements for acquiring a bridging visas?
No, there are no specific health requirements for obtaining a Briding Visa as they are temporary visas that are granted based on your current immigration status.

10.How long do I have to wait before receiving an answer about my new Visa application?

Processing times for new visa applications can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances. You can check estimated processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website.

2. How many types of bridging visas are available for Australia?


There are several types of bridging visas available for Australia, including:

1. Bridging Visa A (BVA): This visa allows applicants who are in Australia on a temporary visa to remain lawfully in the country while their substantive visa application is being processed.

2. Bridging Visa B (BVB): This visa allows holders of a BVA or BVB to leave and re-enter Australia while their substantive visa application is being processed.

3. Bridging Visa C (BVC): This visa allows applicants whose current substantive visa has expired and they have not yet applied for a new one, to remain lawfully in the country until they can depart or make a valid application for another visa.

4. Bridging Visa D (BVD): This visa allows people to stay lawfully in Australia if they do not already hold a valid visa and cannot apply for one from within the country.

5. Bridging Visa E (BVE): This is a non-substantive visa that provides lawful status to people who are in immigration detention or an alternative place of detention, or those who have overstayed their previous visas.

6. Bridging Visa F (BVF): This visa allows people who have made an invalid immigration application and do not hold any other type of valid Australian visa, to stay temporarily until their departure from the country is arranged by immigration authorities.

7. Bridging Visa M (BVITM): This is a work-rights only interim immigration permit that can be granted to BVETs, TPVs and SHEVs holders when these visas expire before DHA decides on applications for permanent protection visas or Safe Haven Enterprise Visas.

8. Bridging Visa R (BRIDE) subclass 050:This subclass was introduced in December 2019 and applies only to illegal maritime arrivals claiming refugee protection who were referred from Mantra Hotel Melbourne by May 2020.

3. Who is eligible for a bridging visa in Australia?


There are several types of bridging visas available in Australia, each with different eligibility requirements. Some common categories of people who may be eligible for a bridging visa include:

1. Visa applicants awaiting a decision on their substantive visa application: This includes individuals who have applied for a new visa while holding a temporary visa and are waiting for a decision to be made on their application.

2. Students transitioning from one course to another: Students who have completed their current course and have applied for a new student visa can apply for a bridging visa to stay in Australia until a decision is made on their new student visa application.

3. Those whose current visa is about to expire: Individuals whose current visa is expiring, but they have not yet received a decision on their new visa application, may be eligible for a bridging visa.

4. People lodged protection or refugee status applications: Applicants for permanent protection or refugee status can apply for a bridging visa if their current temporary visa is expiring while they are waiting for a decision on their permanent residency application.

5. Victims of domestic violence: Those who hold or recently held certain temporary partner visas and are experiencing domestic violence may be eligible for a bridging visa.

6. Applicants with an expired temporary resident return visa (TRRV): Holders of an expired TRRV may be eligible to remain in Australia until they receive an outcome on their resident return visa (RRV) application.

7. Certain holders of cancelled visas: In some circumstances, individuals whose visas have been cancelled may be able to apply for a Bridging Visa E (BVE), which allows them to remain lawfully in Australia until they make arrangements to leave the country.

It’s important to note that eligibility requirements may vary depending on the type of bridging visa being sought and individual circumstances. It’s best to consult with a licensed migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs website for more specific information about eligibility for a bridging visa in Australia.

4. Can I apply for a bridging visa while I am in Australia?


Yes, you can apply for a bridging visa while you are in Australia. However, there are certain eligibility requirements that you must meet in order to be granted a bridging visa. These requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you currently hold and the reason for your bridging visa application. It is recommended that you seek advice from a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs before applying for a bridging visa.

5. Can I work on a bridging visa in Australia?


Yes, you can work on a bridging visa in Australia. The conditions and restrictions for working on a bridging visa may vary depending on the type of bridging visa you hold and the particular circumstances of your case. It is important to check with the Department of Home Affairs for specific guidelines and requirements.

6. How long does it take to process a bridging visa application in Australia?


The processing time for a bridging visa application in Australia can vary depending on the type of bridging visa applied for, the individual circumstances of the applicant, and the current workload of the Department of Home Affairs. However, most bridging visa applications are processed within 1-2 months from the date of lodgement. Some applications may be processed faster or slower than this timeframe depending on individual factors. It is always best to check with the Department of Home Affairs for current processing times for specific bridging visas.

7. Do I need to have health insurance to apply for a bridging visa in Australia?

According to the Department of Home Affairs, you do not need to have health insurance in order to apply for a bridging visa in Australia. However, if you are granted a bridging visa, you will be responsible for your own healthcare costs during your stay in Australia. It is recommended that you have adequate health insurance coverage while in Australia to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

8. Can I study on a bridging visa in Australia?


Yes, you can study on a bridging visa in Australia. However, you must ensure that your bridging visa allows you to study and meet any conditions attached to the visa. Additionally, if you are planning to study on a student visa once your bridging visa expires, you should apply for a new student visa before your bridging visa ceases. It is important to consult with an immigration advisor to ensure that you are following all necessary steps and meeting all requirements for studying on a bridging visa in Australia.

9. What happens if my current visa expires before my bridging visa is granted in Australia?


You will be considered an unlawful non-citizen if your current visa expires before your bridging visa is granted. This means that you will no longer have a valid visa to stay in Australia and you may be subject to detention and/or removal from the country. It is important to ensure that you submit your bridging visa application before your current visa expires to avoid any potential consequences.

10. Can I travel outside of Australia on a bridging visa?

Bridging visas in Australia are temporary visas that allow the holder to remain lawfully in the country while they await a decision on their visa application or appeal. Generally, holders of bridging visas are able to travel outside of Australia and return to the country as long as their visa remains valid.

However, there are certain restrictions and conditions that may apply to travelling on a bridging visa. These may include:

1. No further stay condition: If your bridging visa has a “No Further Stay” condition attached, this means you cannot leave Australia and return while holding this visa.

2. Submitting an application for another visa: If you submit an application for another visa while on a bridging visa, your bridging visa may cease and you may not be able to travel outside of Australia until a decision is made on your new application.

3. Valid passport: You must have a valid passport at all times during your stay in Australia and when travelling outside of the country.

4. Advance permission to travel: In some cases, you may need to seek permission from the Department of Home Affairs before travelling outside of Australia on a bridging visa.

5. Character requirements: If you have any pending character issues or obligations, such as providing biometrics or completing health examinations, you may not be able to travel until these requirements are met.

It is important to carefully review the conditions of your specific bridging visa before making any plans to travel outside of Australia. If you are unsure about your eligibility to travel, it is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Department of Home Affairs for clarification.

11. Can I include family members on my bridging visa application in Australia?


Yes, you can include family members on your bridging visa application in Australia. This may include your partner, children or other dependent family members. You will need to provide evidence of your relationship with these family members and they may also need to meet certain eligibility criteria for the bridging visa. It is important to note that including family members on your application may affect processing times and could lead to additional costs. It is recommended that you seek advice from a registered migration agent before submitting your application with dependents.

12. Is there an application fee for a bridging visa in Australia?


Yes, there is generally an application fee for a bridging visa in Australia. The fee will vary depending on the type of bridging visa you are applying for and your personal circumstances. You can find the current fee schedule on the Department of Home Affairs website.

13. What documents do I need to submit with my application for a bridging visa in Australia?


The exact documents required for a bridging visa application in Australia may vary depending on individual circumstances and the type of bridging visa being applied for. However, some common documents that are typically required include:

1. A completed application form (Form 1008)
2. A valid passport or travel document
3. Evidence of your current immigration status in Australia (e.g. copy of your current visa)
4. Evidence of compelling and compassionate circumstances that necessitate the need for a bridging visa
5. Evidence of your Australian residence, such as a lease agreement, utility bills, or bank statements
6. Proof of identity (e.g. birth certificate, marriage certificate, or national identity card)
7. Evidence of funds to support yourself during the period covered by the bridging visa
8. Health insurance if you are not eligible for Medicare benefits in Australia
9. Character documents such as police clearance certificates from all countries you have lived in for more than 12 months in the past 10 years
10. Completed health examinations if applicable
11. Any relevant and supporting documents related to your individual circumstances (e.g. employment contracts, academic transcripts, etc.)

It is important to submit all necessary documents with your bridging visa application in order to avoid delays or possible refusal.

14. How long can I stay on a bridging visa in Australia?


The length of time you can stay on a bridging visa in Australia depends on the type of bridging visa you have been granted.

If you have been granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA), you can stay until your substantive visa application is decided. If your substantive visa application is refused, your BVA may allow you to apply for another substantive visa or remain lawfully in Australia while making arrangements to depart.

If you have been granted a Bridging Visa B (BVB), you can stay until the specified travel period ends, or until a decision is made on your substantive visa application, whichever comes first.

If you have been granted a Bridging Visa C (BVC), you can usually stay for 28 days from the date it is granted, or until a decision is made on your substantive visa application, whichever comes first. However, if your BVC was granted to make arrangements to leave Australia, you must depart before the end of the specified period (usually 35 days).

In some cases, if you are waiting for a decision on your family violence or protection visa application, you may be eligible for an extended BVC which allows you to remain in Australia until a decision is made on the visa.

It is important to note that under all types of bridging visas, if your substantive visa application is refused and there are no other avenues available to extend your legal stay in Australia, you must depart Australia as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in removal from Australia and potential immigration consequences for future travel or applications.

15.Can I apply for permanent residency while on a Briding Visa B 020?

No, you cannot apply for permanent residency while on a Bridging Visa B (BVB) subclass 020. A BVB is a short-term visa that allows you to leave and re-enter Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed. It does not grant you any further rights or privileges, including the ability to apply for permanent residency.

To be eligible for permanent residency in Australia, you must first be granted a substantive visa, remain in Australia while the visa is valid, and meet all other criteria for permanent residency. Depending on your current visa status and individual circumstances, there may be different pathways available for applying for permanent residency. It is recommended that you seek advice from a migration agent or consult the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

16.How will obtaining another type of Australian Visa affect my Briding Visa B 020?

It is important to note that a Bridging Visa B (BVB) will only remain valid if you continue to meet the conditions and requirements of the visa. Therefore, obtaining another type of Australian visa may affect your Bridging Visa B 020 in the following ways:

1. Duration of stay: If you are granted another visa with a longer validity period, your Bridging Visa B duration may be shortened or canceled.

2. Travel rights: Your ability to travel outside of Australia may be affected if you have used up your multiple-entry facility on your Bridging Visa B or if your Bridging Visa B ceases upon grant of another visa.

3. Work rights: Depending on the conditions and requirements of your new visa, you may have different work rights which can impact your work rights under the Bridging Visa B.

4. Eligibility for permanent residency: If you were granted a Bridging Visa B based on an application for a permanent residency visa, obtaining another type of Australian visa may impact your eligibility for permanent residency.

It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the Department of Home Affairs for specific advice on how obtaining another type of Australian visa will affect your Bridging Visa B 020.

17.Are there any restrictions or conditions on working while holding a Briding Visa B 020?


Yes, there are restrictions and conditions on working while holding a Bridging Visa B 020. These include:

1. Limited work rights: You will only be allowed to work in Australia if your Bridging Visa B is granted with work rights. If your visa does not have work rights, you will not be allowed to work in Australia.

2. Time limit on work rights: Your Bridging Visa B may have a condition that sets a time limit on your ability to work in Australia. This may be the entire validity period of the visa or a specific time period, such as three months.

3. Work restrictions: Your Bridging Visa B may specify certain conditions or restrictions on the type of work you can do in Australia. For example, it may restrict you from working in certain industries or occupations.

4. Compliance with visa conditions: It is important to ensure that you comply with all the conditions and restrictions attached to your Bridging Visa B. Failure to do so could result in cancellation of your visa and potential consequences for future visa applications.

5. Proof of employment: You may be required to provide evidence of employment or job offer when entering Australia on a Bridging Visa B 020.

6. Changes to work circumstances: If there are any changes in your employment status or circumstances, such as a change in employer or hours worked, you must inform the Department of Home Affairs immediately.

7. Eligibility for other visas: Holding a Bridging Visa B does not guarantee eligibility for other visas that allow you to work in Australia. You must meet all the eligibility criteria for the desired visa before applying.

It is important to check the specific conditions and limitations attached to your Bridging Visa B 020 carefully before engaging in any form of employment while in Australia.

18.What are the requirements to be granted a Briding Visa B 020?


To be granted a Bridging Visa B 020, the following requirements must be met:

1. Hold a valid substantive visa: The applicant must hold a valid substantive visa (e.g. student visa, visitor visa) that is expiring or has expired in less than 28 days.

2. Have lodged an application for another visa: The applicant must have lodged an application for another substantive visa or review of a decision in relation to their current substantive visa.

3. Satisfy health and character requirements: The applicant must satisfy the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

4. Meet essential criteria of the new visa: The applicant must meet all essential criteria for the new substantive visa they have applied for.

5. Demonstrate compelling reasons: A compelling reason must be provided for needing to leave and re-enter Australia while their substantive visa application is being processed.

6. Pay applicable fees: The required fees for the bridging visa application must be paid at the time of lodgement.

7. Be in Australia: The applicant must be physically present in Australia at the time of submitting their bridging visa application.

8. Provide evidence of travel arrangements: Documentation such as flight tickets or itinerary may need to be provided to support reasons for leaving and re-entering Australia while holding a bridging visa B.

9. Continue to comply with conditions of current visa: While holding a Bridging Visa B, applicants are expected to continue complying with the conditions of their current substantive visa.

Note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee that a Bridging Visa B will be granted, as each case is assessed individually by the Department of Home Affairs.

19.Can I extend my stay on a Briding Visa B 020 if needed?

Yes, you can apply to extend your stay on a Bridging Visa B 020 if needed. However, the decision to approve the extension is at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs and is subject to specific eligibility criteria. You must provide a valid reason for needing an extension and demonstrate that you are actively working towards resolving your substantive visa application. It is recommended to apply for an extension well before your current visa expires.

20.What happens if my Australian Briding Visa B 020 application is refused?


If your Australian Bridging Visa B 020 application is refused, you may have a few options depending on the specific circumstances of your case. These may include:

1. Appeal: You may be able to appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) if you believe the decision was incorrect or unfair.

2. Reapply: You can reapply for the visa with additional evidence or information that addresses any issues that led to the refusal of your initial application.

3. Lodge a new visa application: If your circumstances have changed, you can lodge a new visa application under a different category or subclass.

4. Depart Australia: If your Bridging Visa B 020 was refused while you were in Australia, you will need to depart the country by the specified date on your refusal letter. Failure to do so may result in overstaying your visa and could impact any future visa applications.

5. Seek professional advice: If your visa application has been refused, it is important to seek professional legal advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer who can assess your case and advise you on the best course of action.

It’s important to note that if your Bridging Visa B 020 is refused, there is no automatic right of appeal and each case will be assessed individually based on its own merits. It’s crucial to ensure that all necessary documentation and evidence is provided with your initial application to increase your chances of success.