Are you stuck between visas? A bridging visa keeps you legal in Australia while your new application processes. But work rights vary dramatically between types, and choosing wrong could leave you unable to support yourself.
Understanding bridging visas becomes crucial when navigating visa transitions. If you're calculating points for permanent residency, our Australia PR Points Calculator helps determine your eligibility while on a bridging visa.
What Are Bridging Visas?
Bridging visas are temporary permits allowing you to remain lawfully in Australia between visa applications. The Department of Home Affairs issues five main types, each with different conditions and work rights.
These visas activate when your current visa expires, bridging the gap until your new application decides. They're not standalone visas – you must have a substantive visa application pending.
Types of Bridging Visas
Bridging Visa A (BVA) - Subclass 010
Work Rights: Usually maintains your previous visa's work conditionsTravel Rights: No international travel allowedEligibility: Applied for new visa while holding substantive visaDuration: Until application decision or withdrawal
Most common bridging visa, automatically granted when applying onshore for a new visa.
Bridging Visa B (BVB) - Subclass 020
Work Rights: Same as your BVATravel Rights: Allows specified international travelEligibility: Must hold BVA and demonstrate travel needDuration: Specified travel period (usually 3 months)Cost: $160 application fee
Essential for maintaining Australian visa status during necessary overseas travel.
Bridging Visa C (BVC) - Subclass 030
Work Rights: No automatic work rights (must apply separately)Travel Rights: No international travelEligibility: Applied for visa while unlawful or holding BVCDuration: Until application decision
Common after visa expiry oversights. Work rights require demonstrating financial hardship.
Bridging Visa D (BVD) - Subclass 040/041
Work Rights: No work rightsTravel Rights: No international travelEligibility: Short stay while making arrangementsDuration: 5 working days typically
Provides brief lawful status to make substantive application or depart Australia.
Bridging Visa E (BVE) - Subclass 050/051
Work Rights: Varies (often restricted)Travel Rights: No international travelEligibility: Various circumstances including immigration detention releaseDuration: Specified period with possible extensions
Often involves specific conditions and reporting requirements.
Work Rights by Bridging Visa Type
Applying for Work Rights (BVC Holders)
If holding BVC without work rights, you can apply by demonstrating:
- Financial hardship evidence
- Bank statements showing limited funds
- Rent/mortgage obligations
- Dependent family members
- Medical expenses
- Compelling circumstances
- Job offer letters
- Previous employment history
- Skills shortage occupation
- Family support needs
- Supporting documentation
- Completed Form 1005
- Identity documents
- Financial evidence
- Employer support letters
Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks, during which you cannot work.
Common Bridging Visa Scenarios
Scenario 1: Student to Skilled Visa
- Student visa expires July 31
- Applied for 189 visa June 15
- Receives BVA with full work rights
- Can work unlimited hours immediately
Scenario 2: Tourist Visa Overstay
- Visitor visa expired
- Applies for partner visa
- Receives BVC without work rights
- Must apply separately for permission to work
Scenario 3: Temporary Worker Changing Employers
- 482 visa with Employer A
- Applied for new 482 with Employer B
- BVA maintains previous work conditions
- Can only work for Employer A until decision
Scenario 4: Failed Visa Application
- First visa application refused
- Applies for review at AAT
- Receives BVE with restricted conditions
- May have work rights depending on circumstances
Important Conditions and Restrictions
No Further Stay Conditions
Some bridging visas include "8503 - No Further Stay" preventing further applications. Seek waiver if needed for compelling reasons.
Travel Restrictions
Leaving Australia on BVA, BVC, or BVE means you cannot return on that visa. Always obtain BVB before traveling.
Medicare Access
Bridging visa holders from certain countries maintain Medicare access. Others may need private health insurance.
Study Rights
Most bridging visas allow study, but check specific conditions as some restrict enrollment in certain courses.
Maintaining Lawful Status
Do's:
- Check visa grant notification for conditions
- Apply for BVB before any travel
- Keep immigration informed of address changes
- Maintain valid passport
- Follow all visa conditions strictly
Don'ts:
- Travel without appropriate visa
- Work without checking rights
- Ignore condition 8503
- Let passport expire
- Miss application deadlines
Impact on Future Applications
Bridging visa history affects future applications:
- Clean compliance improves credibility
- Breaches may trigger exclusion periods
- Work without rights causes serious issues
- Overstaying damages immigration record
If you've faced visa refusals, our visa refusal recovery guide explains your options.
Professional Assistance Benefits
Bridging visa complexities often require expert navigation:
- Correct visa type selection
- Work rights applications
- Condition interpretation
- Travel arrangement assistance
- Compliance monitoring
Desire Immigration's registered migration agents provide comprehensive bridging visa support, ensuring maintained lawful status throughout your immigration journey.
Key Takeaways
- Know your type: Different bridging visas have vastly different rights
- Check work conditions: Don't assume you can work
- Plan travel carefully: BVB required for leaving Australia
- Maintain compliance: Breaches have serious consequences
- Seek help when needed: Complex situations benefit from professional guidance
Bridging visas provide essential continuity during visa transitions. Understanding your specific type, conditions, and rights ensures smooth progression toward your Australian immigration goals while maintaining lawful status.
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