If you are in Australia waiting for a decision about a new visa, the events of your status are referred to as a Bridging Visa. But what is it, and why does it matter? If you are applying for a partner visa, student visa, or skilled visa, knowing the ins and outs of Bridging Visa Australia will relieve potential stress, save time, and save money. This article will outline and sort through the types of bridging visas, requirements for bridging visas, the benefits of bridging visas, along with information you should know, including: bridging visa Australia cost, Australia bridging visa work rights, and possibly even consider hiring a visa consultant Perth to streamline the process.
What Is a Bridging Visa in Australia?
A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa that enables you to remain lawfully in Australia while your substantive visa (the primary visa you have applied for) is being processed. In other words, it bridges your old visa and your new visa. Without a Bridging visa, it is possible that you could accidentally overstay your former visa, which can have serious consequences such as visa cancellation and/or refusal of future visas.
Bridging visas are not permanent residency; they are more like a legal placeholder. Depending on the type of Bridging Visa, the visa allows you to work, study, or travel outside Australia while you wait.
Different Types of Bridging Visas in Australia
In Australia, there are various bridging visas intended for various purposes. Here you will find a brief description of the most notable bridging visa types:
1. Bridging Visa A (BVA)
The most commonly used bridging visa type is the Bridging Visa A. This visa is automatically granted to you if you apply for a new visa within a valid substantive visa. The Bridging Visa A provides you with the authorization to stay in Australia while your application is being processed. However, you may only remain in Australia and not travel outside of the country. If you depart Australia on a Bridging Visa A, the visa will cease upon your departure
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB)
If you are waiting for a decision on your visa application, but would like to depart and return to Australia, you will need a Bridging Visa B. Under a Bridging Visa B, you may leave and return to Australia, provided you do it within a specified travel period. This visa is convenient when you have time-sensitive family, business, and/or personal matters in outside the world while you are waiting for your main visa to be processed.
3. Bridging Visa C (BVC)
This visa is for someone who applies for a new visa while not holding a substantive visa. The Bridging Visa C permits you to stay lawfully in Australia while waiting for your new visa to be determined. Bridging Visa C does not grant you travel rights, as well as a work rights request is made separately to the Department of Home Affairs.
4. Bridging Visa D (BVD)
A Bridging Visa D is a temporary visa that provides you with additional time (up to 5 days) to submit a valid visa application or to leave Australia if your current visa has expired.
5. Bridging Visa E (BVE)
If you are unlawfully in Australia, the Bridging Visa E enables you to remain legally while you finalize your immigration matter, such as appealing a visa decision or preparing to depart from Australia.
Bridging Visa Criteria and Requirements
To be eligible for a bridging visa, you typically need to meet the following:
- You can only apply if you are physically in Australia.
- You must have made a valid visa application for a substantive visa.
- You must comply with any conditions attached to your previous visa.
- Depending on the bridging visa, you may need to meet financial capacity or compelling travel or work-related reasons.
It is important to apply for the correct bridging visa type. This is to say, this is where a professional visa consultant Perth can make a big difference – they can assess your visa history, navigate you through these eligibility requirements, and ascertain that your application is not delayed for technical issues.
Bridging Visa Australia Cost
Bridging visa Australia cost can vary based on your circumstances; however, most bridging visas will incur no fees when applied alongside another visa (such as applying for a partner visa or skilled visa online). When applying online for a partner or skilled visa, a Bridging Visa A will automatically be granted free of charge.
In certain circumstances—such as if you apply for a Bridging Visa B (to leave Australia to travel overseas)—there may be a fee, usually around AUD 165. The most up-to-date cost schedule will always be found on the official Department of Home Affairs website, or please contact a visa consultant Perth to get the most accurate and recent information for your visa cost schedule.
Bridging Visa Work Rights in Australia
Bridging visas allow you to work, depending on the visa type and your specific situation.
- Bridging Visa A: Usually permits you to work unless your previous visa did not have work rights. If you previously did not, you can ask for work rights if you provide evidence of financial hardship.
- Bridging Visa C: Does not usually allow work permission unless you can satisfy financial hardship.
- Bridging Visa E: Generally does not permit you to work and usually has tough restrictions
You will need to submit a Request for Permission to Work to obtain work rights, along with supporting evidence (e.g., your bank account details or an employment offer). A visa consultant Perth has experience working with clients to obtain work rights in a bridging visa and assist you with your request. Ultimately, they will assist you with a letter or in presenting your case, giving you the best possible chance of obtaining work rights in your bridging visa.
Advantages of a Bridging Visa in Australia
There are several benefits of getting a bridging visa, including:
- Legal Stay: You will be in a legal status in Australia whilst you wait for your new visa application to be processed.
- Continuity: You can continue working or studying as long as your bridging visa condition reflects it.
- Flexibility: If you have a Bridging Visa B, you may be able to travel outside Australia, if necessary.
- Peace of Mind: You don’t have to worry about being unlawful or overstaying your visa.
For many people, these benefits are important to maintain stability- especially if the visa process takes a while.
Reasons for Consulting a Visa Expert based in Perth
Visa laws in Australia can be convoluted, and mistakes – even minor ones – can translate into significant delays. Experienced visa consultant Perth has a deep understanding of how bridging visas, along with other visa types, will fit together and can support you in making the right decision moving forward. They will help you with the following:
- Lodging a valid application
- Endorsing work or travel rights
- Responding to questions from the Department of Home Affairs
- Avoiding costly mistakes that would hinder your application for a visa
A trusted and objective consultant places you in the best possible position to be compliant and informed throughout your visa experience.
Final Thoughts
While a Bridging Visa in Australia may seem like a minor aspect of your immigration journey, it can significantly impact how you maintain your lawful status, your right to work, and overall confidence. Whether you’re applying for a new visa or waiting on a decision, knowing your options and what conditions are attached to the type of bridging visa can certainly make a difference.
If you are not sure what bridging visa applies in your case, it is a good idea to seek advice from a registered and competent visa consultant Perth to provide specific, individualized advice and assist you through the process.