1. What is a Bridging Visa?

A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa that allows a person to stay lawfully in Australia while their substantive visa application is being processed or while they make arrangements to leave the country. It “bridges” the gap between an expired visa and the grant of a new one.

2. Who can apply for a Bridging Visa?
Generally, anyone who holds a valid substantive visa and has applied for another substantive visa may be eligible to apply for a Bridging Visa. This includes individuals on a student, tourist, work, or partner visa.

3. Is there an application fee for a Bridging Visa?

Yes, there is usually an application fee for a Bridging Visa. The fee amount varies based on the specific type of Bridging Visa being applied for.

4. How long is a Bridging Visa valid for?
The validity period of a Bridging Visa will depend on which type of bridging visa you are granted and when it was granted. Generally, they are valid until the decision on your substantive visa application is made or until you depart Australia.

5. Can I work on a Bridging Visa?
Whether you can work on a Bridging Visa depends on the type of bridging visa you are granted. Some bridging visas come with work rights automatically attached, while others have limitations or restrictions on work rights. It is important to check the conditions attached to your specific bridging visa.

6. Can I travel outside of Australia while holding a Bridging Visa?
It is generally not recommended to travel outside of Australia while holding a Bridging Visa as this could affect your ability to return to Australia or your ongoing eligibility for the bridging visa.

7.Can I study on a Bridging Visa?
Whether you can study on a Bridging Visa again depends on the specific type of bridging visa you are granted and its conditions. Some bridging visas may allow you to study while others may have restrictions.

8) Can I add family members to my Bridging Visa?
It is usually possible to add family members to a Bridging Visa, but this will depend on the specific type of Bridging Visa and your circumstances. It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer for individual advice.

9) Can a Bridging Visa be cancelled?
Yes, a Bridging Visa can be cancelled by the Department of Home Affairs if the conditions of the visa are breached or if false information was provided in the visa application.

10) How do I apply for a Bridging Visa?
You can apply for a Bridging Visa online using your ImmiAccount. If you are unable to apply online, you can also submit a paper application. It is recommended to seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer when applying for any visa, including a Bridging Visa.

2. How do I apply for a Bridging Visa?

To apply for a Bridging Visa, you must submit an application to the Department of Home Affairs. This can be done online through the department’s website or in person at a designated immigration office.

1. Determine your eligibility: Before applying for a Bridging Visa, you must make sure that you meet the requirements for the visa. This includes being in Australia and having a valid visa that is about to expire or has already expired within the last 28 days.

2. Gather required documents: You will need to provide certain documents with your application, such as your passport, current visa grant letter, and evidence of your current circumstances in Australia.

3. Complete the application form: You can find the appropriate application form on the Department of Home Affairs website. Make sure to fill it out accurately and completely.

4. Pay the necessary fees: There is usually no fee for applying for a Bridging Visa, but if there is one it will be listed on the application form. Payment can be made online or in person at a designated payment center.

5. Submit your application: Once you have completed all of these steps, you can submit your application along with all required documents to the Department of Home Affairs by mail or in person.

6. Await a decision: The processing time for Bridging Visas varies depending on individual circumstances and demand for visas. You can check the status of your application online using your Transaction Reference Number (TRN).

It is important to note that while waiting for a decision on your Bridging Visa application, you may be granted an electronic Bridging Visa A which will come into effect once your current visa expires. This allows you to remain lawfully in Australia until a decision is made on your application.

If you are not eligible to apply for a Bridging Visa or have any further questions about the process, it is recommended to seek advice from an immigration lawyer or registered migration agent.

3. Can I travel outside of Australia with a Bridging Visa?

Yes, you can travel outside of Australia with a Bridging Visa, provided that you have a valid passport and obtain permission from the Department of Home Affairs beforehand. If you leave without obtaining permission, your Bridging Visa may be cancelled and you may not be able to return to Australia. It is important to keep in mind that your Bridging Visa has conditions attached to it, so make sure to follow them while traveling and re-entering Australia.

4. What are the different types of Bridging Visas for Australia?

1. Bridging Visa A (BVA):
This is a temporary visa which allows you to stay in Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed. This visa is granted automatically once your current visa expires, and it allows you to remain lawfully in Australia until a decision is made on your new visa application.

2. Bridging Visa B (BVB):
This visa allows you to leave and re-enter Australia while your BVA or substantive visa is being processed. The BVB must be applied for separately and will only be granted if there are compelling reasons for you to travel outside of Australia.

3. Bridging Visa C (BVC):
A BVC is a temporary visa that allows individuals who are in immigration detention to stay in the community while their immigration application or appeal is being assessed.

4. Bridging Visa D (BVD):
This bridging visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily until an immigration decision is made on your case if you do not hold a valid substantive visa, are not eligible for any other bridging visas, and cannot be detained because of their medical condition.

5. Bridging Visa E (BVE):
The BVE provides a lawful alternative for unlawful non-citizens who are unable to depart Australia, or are waiting for an outcome of an immigration matter, or have no other valid Australian visas. This bridging visa allows individuals to remain in Australia lawfully until they depart from the country.

6. Bridging Visa F (BVF):
This bridging visa allows overseas nationals who have applied for asylum in Australia but have not yet received an outcome on their application, to stay legally in the country following the expiration of their current existing visas until they receive notice of determination.

7. Bridging Visa M(BVM):
A BVM lets people remain lawfully in the country when they have made an application for judicial review by the Migration Review Tribunal or Federal Court and there is a processing delay or they are appealing against a decision.

8. Bridging Visa R (BVR):
This visa is for former holders of bridging visas C, D, and E to marry their Australian-based partner; for more extended stays than normal tourist visas or working holiday visas allow when they are in engagements overseas and are making arrangements for them to be wedded in Australia.

5. Who is eligible for a Bridging Visa?

A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa that allows an individual to remain in Australia while they are awaiting the outcome of their application for a substantive visa or appeal. The eligibility criteria for a Bridging Visa may vary depending on the specific type of Bridging Visa being applied for. In general, an individual may be eligible for a Bridging Visa if they:

1. Are currently in Australia and have lodged a valid application for a substantive visa
2. Hold or have held certain types of temporary visas, such as a Student Visa, Visitor Visa, or Working Holiday Visa
3. Have complied with all the conditions of their previous visas
4. Meet health and character requirements
5. Can demonstrate that they have compelling reasons for needing to stay in Australia, such as family ties or humanitarian reasons
6. Are not barred from applying for another visa while in Australia.

It is important to note that there are different sub-classes of Bridging Visas, and each may have its own specific eligibility criteria. It is recommended to consult with a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs website for more information on the specific requirements for each type of Bridging Visa.

6. Can I work in Australia on a Bridging Visa?

Yes, you may be able to work in Australia on a Bridging Visa under certain conditions. If your Bridging Visa does not have work rights attached to it, you will need to apply for a separate work visa or have an employer sponsor you for a work visa. If your Bridging Visa has work rights attached, then you may work in Australia until a decision is made on your visa application or appeal. However, if your Bridging Visa is cancelled or expires while you are waiting for a decision on another visa application, then your right to work in Australia will also expire. It is important to carefully check the conditions of any visa that is granted to ensure that you understand your rights and obligations while working in Australia. You should also consult with the Department of Home Affairs for specific information and advice about your individual circumstances.

7. What are the conditions of a Bridging Visa?

The conditions of a Bridging Visa may vary depending on the specific type of Bridging Visa and individual circumstances. However, some common conditions for a Bridging Visa may include:

1. Work rights: A Bridging Visa may allow the holder to work in Australia while their visa application is being processed, unless otherwise specified.

2. Travel rights: Some Bridging Visas may allow the holder to travel outside of Australia and re-enter if they have applied for a further substantive visa.

3. Health insurance: The holder of a Bridging Visa may be required to maintain adequate health insurance coverage during their stay in Australia.

4. Attendance at immigration interviews or appointments: Depending on the circumstances, the holder of a Bridging Visa may be required to attend scheduled immigration interviews or appointments.

5. Criminal record reporting: If the holder has been convicted of a criminal offence while in Australia, they must notify immigration authorities as soon as possible.

6. Change of personal details: The holder must inform immigration authorities of any changes to their personal details such as address or contact information.

7. Compliance with visa conditions: The holder must comply with all other conditions stated on their Bridging Visa, including any special conditions that apply to their individual case. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in cancellation of the visa and potential consequences for future visa applications.

It is important for holders of a Bridging Visa to fully understand and comply with all applicable conditions to avoid any issues with their current or future immigration status in Australia.

8. How long does it take to get a decision on a Bridging Visa application?

The processing time for a Bridging Visa application can vary depending on the individual circumstances and can take anywhere from several days to several weeks. It is best to refer to the Department of Home Affairs’ website for the most up-to-date processing times. Factors that may affect the processing time include the complexity of your case, whether additional information or documents are required, and current workload of the department.

9. Can I apply for permanent residency while on a Bridging Visa?

Yes, you can apply for permanent residency while on a Bridging Visa as long as you meet the eligibility requirements for the permanent residency visa. However, your Bridging Visa may have certain conditions or restrictions that could affect your ability to travel or work during the application process. It is important to consult with an immigration lawyer or registered migration agent before applying for permanent residency while on a Bridging Visa.

10. What happens if my current visa expires before my Bridging Visa is granted?

If your current visa expires before your Bridging Visa is granted, your Bridging Visa will automatically come into effect and you will remain in Australia lawfully until a decision is made on your application. It is important to note that if you are on a Bridging Visa A, you may be subject to certain restrictions such as not being able to leave and re-enter Australia. It is best to consult with an immigration lawyer or the Department of Home Affairs for more specific information regarding your individual circumstances.

11. Do I need to pay an application fee for a Bridging Visa?

It depends on the type of Bridging Visa you are applying for and your individual circumstances. Some Bridging Visas may have a fee associated with them, while others may not require a fee at all. It is best to check with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for specific information and fees related to your Bridging Visa application.

12. Can I study in Australia on a Bridging Visa?

Yes, you can study in Australia on a Bridging Visa. However, there are some restrictions if the Bridging Visa is granted with a “no work” condition. In this case, you will not be able to undertake any paid work while studying in Australia. If your Bridging Visa has no work restrictions, you will be able to work and study in Australia.

13. How long can I stay in Australia with a Bridging Visa?

The length of time you can stay in Australia on a Bridging Visa depends on your circumstances. A Bridging Visa A, which allows you to remain in Australia while waiting for a decision on another visa application, will have the same expiry date as the visa you are waiting for. If your current visa expires before a decision is made on your new application, the Bridging Visa A will come into effect and allow you to stay in the country until a decision is made.

If you have applied for a protection visa and have not yet received an outcome, you may be granted a Bridging Visa E, which has no set expiry date. You will need to apply for permission to work and travel with this visa.

14. Is there an age limit for applying for a Bridging Visa in Australia?

No, there is no age limit for applying for a Bridging Visa in Australia. Anyone who meets the eligibility requirements may apply for a Bridging Visa regardless of their age. However, minors under the age of 18 will need to have a parent or guardian sponsor their visa application.

15. Do I need health insurance while on a bridging visa in Australia?

Yes, it is recommended to have health insurance while on a bridging visa in Australia. This will ensure that you have access to medical services and assistance in case of any health issues while you are in the country. It may also be a requirement for your bridging visa application.

16.Are there any restrictions on bridging visa holders?

Yes, there are restrictions on bridging visa holders. These may vary depending on the type of bridging visa held, but some common restrictions include:

1. Work limitations: Bridging visa holders may be restricted from working or have limited work rights while their visa application is being processed.

2. Travel restrictions: Some bridging visas do not allow the holder to travel outside of Australia, or only allow limited travel.

3. Study limitations: Bridging visa holders may be restricted from studying or have limited study rights while their visa application is being processed.

4. Sponsorship limitations: A bridging visa holder who has applied for a partner visa may not be able to be sponsored for another partner visa until a decision has been made on the current application.

5. Healthcare access: Bridging visa holders may not have access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system, and may need to purchase private health insurance.

6. Criminal record limitations: Bridging visa applicants with certain criminal records may have additional restrictions placed on them, such as reporting requirements or a ban on travelling outside of a specific geographic area.

It is important for bridging visa holders to carefully review and understand the conditions of their specific bridging visa to ensure they comply with all requirements and avoid any possible consequences or refusal of their future visa applications.

17.Can I include family members in my bridging visa application?

Yes, you can include family members in your bridging visa application if they are dependent on you or are included in your current visa. You will need to provide evidence of their dependency and submit their personal information and documents with your application. However, if they have separate visa applications, they will need to apply for their own bridging visas.

18.What happens if my application for another visa is refused while on a bridging visa?

If your application for another visa is refused while on a bridging visa, you will be expected to abide by the conditions of your current bridging visa. This means that if your current bridging visa is due to expire, you will need to apply for another bridging visa or leave the country.

If you do not have another viable immigration option, such as appealing the decision or seeking a review, you may be required to depart Australia. If this is not possible due to circumstances beyond your control, you should inform the Department of Home Affairs immediately and discuss possible options with them. Failure to comply with the conditions of your bridging visa can result in cancellation of your visa and potential consequences, including being barred from entering Australia in the future.

It is important to seek legal advice or information from the Department of Home Affairs if you are facing a refused application while on a bridging visa. They will be able to provide guidance on what steps you can take next and how it may affect your current situation.

19.How do I keep track of my bridging visa application?

You can keep track of your bridging visa application by checking the status on your ImmiAccount, which is your online portal for managing all of your visa applications and correspondence with the Department of Home Affairs. You should receive updates and notifications about your application through this account. Additionally, you can also contact the Department of Home Affairs directly for any updates or further information about the progress of your application.

20.Are there any consequences if my bridging visa is cancelled?

Yes, if your bridging visa is cancelled, you may face consequences such as being immediately detained by the Department of Home Affairs and placed in immigration detention. You may also be prohibited from applying for another Australian visa for a certain period of time or have restrictions placed on any future visas. Additionally, if your bridging visa was linked to another visa application, that application may also be refused. It is important to comply with all conditions and requirements of your bridging visa to avoid cancellation.