Bridging Visas Australia
If you’re awaiting a decision on a visa application in Australia or need to remain in the country legally after your current visa expires, a bridging visa may be essential. Bridging visas are temporary permits that allow you to stay in Australia lawfully while waiting for a decision on a new visa, appealing a visa refusal, or making arrangements to leave the country..
In this blog, we’ll explore the various types of bridging visas available and explain how they work, helping you understand your options and next steps..
Types of Bridging Visas
There are several types of bridging visas, each designed for different situations. The most common bridging visas include:
1. Bridging Visa A (BVA)
Bridging Visa A (BVA) is granted to people who are in Australia and have applied for a new visa while holding a valid substantive visa. BVA allows you to stay in Australia while you wait for a decision on your visa application.
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB)
Bridging Visa B (BVB) allows you to leave and re-enter Australia while waiting for a decision on your substantive visa application. This visa is useful if you need to travel outside Australia temporarily during the processing period.
- Eligibility: You must already hold a Bridging Visa A or be waiting for a decision on a new visa application..
- Travel rights: BVB allows you to travel outside Australia and return within a specified timeframe.
3. Bridging Visa C (BVC)
Bridging Visa C (BVC) is granted to people who have applied for a visa in Australia but do not hold a valid substantive visa (for example, if your visa expired before you applied for a new one).
- Eligibility: You must have lodged a new visa application while unlawfully in Australia.
- Travel rights: BVC does not allow you to travel outside Australia. If you do, your BVC will be cancelled.
4. Bridging Visa D (BVD)
Bridging Visa D (BVD) is for people who have become unlawful non-citizens (for example, if your visa has expired and you haven’t applied for a new one). This visa is a short-term solution that gives you time to make arrangements, such as applying for a new visa or leaving the country.
- Eligibility: BVD is granted if you cannot apply for a substantive visa right away but intend to do so soon.
- Travel rights: Travel outside Australia is not permitted on a BVD.
5. Bridging Visa E (BVE)
Bridging Visa E (BVE) is for people who have overstayed their visa or are unlawfully in Australia. BVE allows you to remain in the country while you arrange your departure, resolve your immigration status, or wait for an immigration decision.
- Eligibility: BVE is granted to people who are unlawfully in Australia but need time to resolve their visa situation.
- Travel rights: You are not allowed to travel outside Australia on a BVE.
When Do You Need a Bridging Visa?
Bridging visas are often necessary in the following situations:
- Waiting for a visa decision: If your substantive visa has expired, but you have applied for a new visa, a bridging visa allows you to stay in Australia while waiting for the outcome.
- Visa refusals or cancellations: If your visa is cancelled or refused and you are appealing the decision, a bridging visa can keep you legally in the country during the appeals process.
- Preparing to leave Australia: If your visa has expired and you need time to arrange your departure, a bridging visa can provide legal status during that time.
Work Rights?
Work rights on a bridging visa depend on the type of bridging visa you hold. Some bridging visas require you to apply for work rights separately and demonstrate financial hardship. If work rights are not included, you can lodge a separate application to be granted permission to work. Typically, you will need to show that you cannot support yourself financially without employment.
How to Apply for a Bridging Visa?
Most bridging visas are automatically granted when you apply for a substantive visa. However, if you need to apply for one separately, you can do so online through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide supporting documents to demonstrate your eligibility.
Conclusion
Bridging visas are essential for maintaining legal status in Australia while you wait for visa decisions or resolve your immigration situation. Understanding the different types of bridging visas and their conditions is key to ensuring you remain compliant with immigration laws.
At Jade Immigration Lawyers, we help individuals navigate the complexities of bridging visas and ensure that you meet all requirements. Contact us today for expert advice on applying for or managing your bridging visa
Useful Links:
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Visit the Department’s Website: Learn more about Travel on a bridging visa.
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Our Immigration Services Page: Explore our services to understand how we can assist you with your visa and immigration needs.
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Need Help? Contact Jade Immigration Lawyers for expert advice on your specific case. You can also check Jade’s profile to learn more about her expertise in visa-related matters.