Bridging Visa B (BVB) – Travel Permission While on a Bridging Visa

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What Is a Bridging Visa B?

A Bridging Visa B (BVB – Subclass 020) is a temporary visa that allows you to lawfully leave and return to Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed.

If you’re currently holding a Bridging Visa A (BVA) and need to travel overseas for urgent reasons — a BVB is the only bridging visa that permits re-entry.

Without a BVB, your existing bridging visa will cease automatically when you depart Australia.

Who Can Apply for a BVB?

You may be eligible to apply for a BVB if:

You are currently in Australia
You already hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA)
You have a pending substantive visa application
You have genuine reasons to travel temporarily (e.g. family emergency, work, medical reasons)

How to Apply for Bridging Visa B

Applying for a Bridging B visa involves several key steps:

1. Prepare Your Travel Details

You must provide:

Your intended travel dates
The reason for travel (with supporting documents)
Evidence of your intention to return (e.g. return flight, family ties)

2. Apply Online via ImmiAccount

You can apply through your ImmiAccount:

Complete the online Bridging B visa application
Upload your supporting documents
Pay the application fee (currently $190 as of July 2025)

3. Wait for Visa Grant Before You Travel

Do not leave Australia before your BVB is granted. Leaving early will cancel your BVA and could result in unlawful status or refusal of re-entry.

📋BVB Conditions and Validity

BVB is generally granted with strict travel dates (often 3 months or less)
It can be single-entry or multiple-entry
You must return before the travel period expires
If your BVB expires while offshore, you cannot re-enter without a new visa

Important Notes

You cannot apply for BVB from outside Australia
Travel for holidays is generally not accepted unless exceptional circumstances apply
Apply at least 2–3 weeks before travel if possible
There is no extension of BVB once issued – you’ll need a new application if your travel is delayed

Can I Apply for BVA Manually?

In most cases, BVA is granted automatically when you apply for a substantive visa onshore. However, if it was not granted or has lapsed, you may apply manually using:

Form 1005
Through ImmiAccount (online preferred)
Supporting documents if requesting work rights or special conditions

Need Help Applying for BVB?

At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we frequently assist with urgent BVB applications, including:

Family emergencies
Funeral or medical-related travel
Supporting documents for strong travel reasons
Complex bridging visa timelines

We ensure your Bridging B visa application is thorough and timely, reducing risk of refusal.

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.

Get Your Question Answered

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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.

What is a BVB visa in Australia?

It’s a bridging visa that allows travel while you wait for your substantive visa decision.

Can I apply for BVB outside Australia?

No. You must be in Australia at the time of application and when the visa is granted.

What’s the BVB visa fee?

The current fee is $190, but this may change. Check the latest fees on the Department’s website.

How long is BVB valid?

Typically for a few weeks to a few months, depending on your travel request.

What happens if my BVB expires overseas?

You will not be able to return on that visa. You may need to apply for another visa to re-enter.