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Bridging Visa
The Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) allows eligible older parents of Australian citizens or permanent residents to live permanently in Australia. However, since processing times for this visa can exceed 30 years, most applicants remain in Australia on a Bridging Visa while awaiting a decision. Understanding how the 804 Bridging Visa B works—including Medicare access and travel conditions—is crucial for long-term planning.
Once you apply for the 804 visa while in Australia, you may be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA), allowing you to lawfully remain in the country while your application is being assessed. However, the BVA does not permit you to travel outside Australia. If you need to travel, you must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
To travel outside Australia while your 804 visa is being processed, you must:
Importantly, you must return before the BVB expires, or risk losing your visa status.
You can enrol in Medicare once your Aged Parent Visa (Subclass 804) is granted. However, while your visa is still being assessed, you may still be eligible under certain conditions. You may be able to access Medicare earlier if you are from a country that has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia.
Australia currently has RHCAs with the following countries:
💡 Tip: You will need to show proof of your RHCA eligibility (e.g. passport, visa grant notice) and meet any applicable conditions to enrol in Medicare.
Here are the main eligibility criteria for the visa applicant:
Additionally, the sponsor must provide financial support and agree to certain obligations, including covering any healthcare or accommodation needs of the parent during their stay.
Bridging visas linked to the 804 visa typically come with the following conditions:
However, if you’re holding a Bridging Visa E (BVE) or switching from another visa status, additional restrictions may apply.
Processing times vary based on demand, document completeness, and sponsorship approval. On average:
We recommend early planning to avoid delays, especially if your parent wishes to travel on a specific date.
At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we:
We provide clear, fixed-fee guidance so you can focus on family, not paperwork.
📞 Call us on 0485 907 989 or Book a Consultation. We assist clients across Australia and internationally.
Find answers to common questions about our Parent Visa Australia services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us.
No, the Bridging Visa A does not allow travel. You must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to travel overseas and return lawfully.
You can apply online via your ImmiAccount. You must provide reasons for travel and proposed travel dates. Apply before leaving Australia.
A BVB usually lasts for the approved travel period, often 3 months. You must return before it expires.
If your BVB expires while you are outside Australia, you may not be able to return. You should reapply or seek legal advice before departure.