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Bridging Visas

Overview

✦Bridging Visas — Maintaining Your Lawful Status in Australia

A Bridging Visa allows eligible individuals to remain lawfully in Australia while awaiting the outcome of a substantive visa application, merits review proceedings, or arrangements for departure.

In many cases, a Bridging Visa is granted automatically when a valid onshore visa application is lodged and generally comes into effect when the applicant's current substantive visa ceases.

The conditions attached to a Bridging Visa—including work rights, travel rights, and reporting obligations—vary depending on the visa subclass and the applicant's individual circumstances.

The Five Main Bridging Visas

Bridging Visa A (Subclass 010)

A Bridging Visa A (BVA) is generally granted automatically when a valid substantive visa application is lodged while the applicant holds a substantive visa. The BVA usually comes into effect when the current substantive visa expires and allows the applicant to remain lawfully in Australia while their application is being processed. Work rights will depend on the conditions attached to the Bridging Visa.

Bridging Visa B (Subclass 020)

A Bridging Visa B (BVB) allows eligible applicants to travel outside Australia and return while their substantive visa application is being processed. Unlike most other Bridging Visas, a BVB requires a separate application and application charge. It is important to obtain a BVB before leaving Australia, as departing Australia while holding only a BVA or BVC will generally cause that Bridging Visa to cease.

Bridging Visa C (Subclass 030)

A Bridging Visa C (BVC) is generally granted where a valid substantive visa application is lodged after the applicant's previous substantive visa has already ceased. Although it restores lawful status, a BVC does not automatically include work rights. Eligible applicants may apply for work rights in certain circumstances, including where financial hardship can be demonstrated.

Bridging Visa E (Subclasses 050 & 051)

A Bridging Visa E (BVE) may be granted to individuals who are unlawful or who require a visa while resolving their immigration status or making arrangements to leave Australia. A BVE generally does not include work or travel rights unless specifically granted and may also include reporting obligations.

Bridging Visa R (Subclass 070)

A Bridging Visa R (BVR) is a specialised visa granted by the Minister in limited circumstances where a person cannot reasonably be removed from Australia. BVR holders remain subject to significant reporting and notification obligations, with visa conditions determined according to the relevant legislative framework.

Four Things Every Bridging Visa Holder Should Know

The rules surrounding bridging visas are complex. Make sure you understand your conditions:

1. Work rights

Work rights vary depending on the Bridging Visa subclass and the conditions attached to the visa. If your Bridging Visa does not include work rights, you may be able to apply for permission to work in certain circumstances, including financial hardship.

2. Travel Outside Australia

Only a Bridging Visa B generally permits travel outside Australia and lawful re-entry. Leaving Australia while holding a Bridging Visa A or Bridging Visa C will generally cause that Bridging Visa to cease.

3. When Your Bridging Visa Begins

In many cases, a Bridging Visa granted with a substantive visa application does not become active immediately. Instead, it generally takes effect when your current substantive visa expires and remains in effect while your application or review process continues.

4. If You Become Unlawful

If your substantive visa expires before another valid visa application is lodged, you may become an unlawful non-citizen. Obtaining legal advice as early as possible is important, as restoring lawful status promptly may help minimise the impact on future visa options.

Protecting Your Lawful Status

Bridging Visa conditions can have significant consequences for your ability to work, travel, and remain lawfully in Australia. Whether you need advice about work rights, overseas travel, or maintaining lawful status while your visa application is being processed, obtaining the right advice early can help avoid unnecessary complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Bridging Visa?

A Bridging Visa allows eligible individuals to remain lawfully in Australia while a substantive visa application, merits review, or other immigration process is being finalised.

Can I work while holding a Bridging Visa?

It depends on the type of Bridging Visa you hold and the conditions attached to it. Some Bridging Visas include work rights, while others require a separate application before employment is permitted.

Can I travel overseas while holding a Bridging Visa?

Generally, only a Bridging Visa B (BVB) allows travel outside Australia and lawful re-entry. Travelling without a valid BVB may affect your ability to return to Australia.

What happens if my Bridging Visa expires?

If your Bridging Visa expires and you do not hold another valid visa, you may become an unlawful non-citizen. It is important to obtain legal advice immediately if this occurs.

Can I apply for work rights on a Bridging Visa?

In some circumstances, yes. Certain Bridging Visa holders may apply for work rights where they satisfy the relevant legislative requirements, including financial hardship where applicable.

Which Bridging Visa will I receive?

The Bridging Visa granted depends on your immigration status, the type of visa application you have lodged, and your individual circumstances. Different Bridging Visa subclasses have different conditions and entitlements.

Why Choose Yantra Legal?

Choosing a lawyer is about more than legal knowledge. You want someone who will listen, understand your situation, and guide you with honesty and care. That's how we work at Yantra Legal.

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Having lived in Nepal, Germany and Australia, we understand what it feels like to build a new life in a different country. We know that migration matters often involve family, work, uncertainty and important life decisions—not just paperwork.

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When you choose Yantra Legal, you work directly with our solicitor, Krishna Giri from your first consultation until your matter is finalised. Your case is not passed between different staff members, so you always know who is handling your matter.

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Legal advice should be clear, not confusing. We explain your options in plain English and, where helpful, in Nepali or Hindi, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

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No two legal matters are the same. We take the time to understand your circumstances, your goals and what matters most to you. Our advice is tailored to your situation rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

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Choosing a lawyer is about more than legal knowledge. You want someone who will listen, understand your situation, and guide you with honesty and care. That's how we work at Yantra Legal.

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Understand Your Visa Status and Next Steps

Understanding your Bridging Visa conditions is essential to protecting your lawful status in Australia. We provide practical legal advice to help you understand your rights, meet your visa conditions, and navigate the Australian migration system with confidence.