How to Apply for a Bridging Visa in Australia

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Applying for a Bridging Visa in Australia

If your current visa is expiring or you’re in the middle of another visa process, you may need to apply for a bridging visa to remain lawful in Australia. Bridging visas allow you to stay in Australia temporarily while your immigration matter is being resolved.

This guide explains how to apply for a bridging visa in Australia, which bridging visa type applies to your situation, and what conditions you may need to follow.

When Do You Need to Apply for a Bridging Visa?

You may need to apply for a bridging visa if:

You have submitted a new visa application and need to stay in Australia while it is processed
You are requesting a review or appeal of a visa refusal or cancellation
You have become unlawful and are trying to regularise your status
You are making arrangements to depart Australia

Not all bridging visas are granted automatically — some must be applied for separately, especially if you are unlawful or need travel rights.

How to Apply for a Bridging Visa

The application process depends on the bridging visa subclass and your current immigration status. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:

1. Determine which bridging visa applies

BVA – You are on a substantive visa and applying for another
BVB – You need to travel while your application is in progress
BVC – You are not holding a substantive visa
BVE – You are unlawful and need to restore legal stay

👉 Learn more about types of bridging visas → Bridging Visa Australia

2. Submit the correct form

Most bridging visa applications are submitted online through ImmiAccount
In some cases, paper forms may be required

3. Attach supporting documents

Current visa status evidence
Details of pending visa application or appeal
Explanation of circumstances (if unlawful)

4. Comply with conditions and wait for the grant

You may be granted a bridging visa with conditions (e.g. no work, no travel)
Processing times vary depending on the type and urgency

Important Notes on Bridging Visa Applications

You cannot apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) unless you already hold a BVA
If you are unlawful, only BVE may be available, and it comes with strict conditions
A bridging visa does not give you new visa rights — it only keeps you lawful

Always check whether your bridging visa comes with work restrictions, reporting conditions, or travel bans.

Need Help With Your Bridging Visa Application?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we regularly assist clients in choosing and applying for the correct bridging visa. We also help with:

Work rights requests
Submissions for BVE grant after unlawful stay
Linking bridging visas to AAT or ministerial intervention applications

Ready to take the next step?

Speak with Jade Immigration Lawyers today – we’re here to help you.

📞 Call us: 0485 907 989
📧 Email: jade@jadeimmigrationlawyers.com.au
📝 Submit an online enquiry or
📅 Book a consultation now to get personalised immigration advice from our experienced team. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

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FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Bridging Visa services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us.

Can I apply for a bridging visa if I am unlawful?

Yes, but you may only be eligible for a BVE, which has strict conditions. Seek legal advice before applying.

Can I work on a bridging visa?

Only if your visa allows it. You may need to apply separately to request work rights.

Do I need to apply for a bridging visa after lodging a new visa?

In most cases, a BVA is granted automatically when you apply while holding a substantive visa. Others (like BVB) require separate applications.

How long does it take to get a bridging visa?

Processing times vary. Some are granted instantly, while others (e.g. BVE) can take days or weeks depending on complexity.