A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals to remain in Australia while they await the outcome of their immigration matters, such as a visa application or an appeal. Bridging visas are commonly used by individuals who are in Australia unlawfully or whose visas have expired, providing a lawful status while their immigration status is resolved.

There are five different types of Bridging Visas (A, B, C, D, and E), each serving a specific purpose. These visas allow individuals to stay in Australia legally while either waiting for a visa decision, attending hearings, or arranging their departure from the country.

Types of Bridging Visas:

1. Bridging Visa A (BVA) – Subclass 010

The Bridging Visa A is for individuals who are in Australia without a visa and wish to stay lawfully while they apply for a new visa or resolve any immigration issues. This visa is suitable for individuals who are in Australia unlawfully, giving them lawful status while they await a visa decision.

1. • Conditions: This visa generally allows you to stay in Australia, but you cannot travel outside the country without first obtaining permission.
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB) – Subclass 020

The Bridging Visa B allows individuals to leave Australia and return while they are waiting for the resolution of their visa application or other immigration matters. This visa is ideal for those who need to travel outside Australia while their visa status is being determined.

1. • Conditions: You must hold a Bridging Visa B before leaving Australia. The visa allows re-entry into Australia while you await your visa decision.
2. Bridging Visa C (BVC) – Subclass 041

The Bridging Visa C is for individuals who are in Australia unlawfully and wish to apply for a new visa or regularize their immigration status. It allows applicants to remain in Australia legally while they resolve their immigration matters.

1. • Conditions: This visa typically restricts the holder from leaving Australia, as re-entry is not allowed without prior authorization.
2. Bridging Visa D (BVD) – Subclass 041

The Bridging Visa D is for individuals who are in Australia unlawfully and need to remain in the country while they await the resolution of their immigration matters. This visa is often used by individuals who are applying for a new visa or an appeal, and it provides lawful status while their situation is being resolved.

1. • Conditions: The Bridging Visa D can have restrictions on travel and work, and the visa holder may need to apply for permission before departing Australia.
2. Bridging Visa E (BVE) – Subclass 050 & 051

The Bridging Visa E is granted to individuals who are in Australia unlawfully and need to remain in the country while they finalize their immigration status or prepare to leave the country. There are two subclasses for this visa, depending on the applicant’s situation.

1. • Conditions: The Bridging Visa E can allow individuals to stay lawfully while they either decide to depart Australia or finalize their visa application. Some subclasses have conditions restricting the ability to work.

Key Benefits of Bridging Visas:

• Legal Stay in Australia: Bridging visas ensure that you are in Australia legally while your immigration matters are resolved.
• Work Rights: Depending on the visa subclass, you may be granted permission to work in Australia while your immigration status is pending.
• Travel Flexibility: Some Bridging Visas allow you to leave and re-enter Australia, while others may restrict international travel.
• Peace of Mind: Bridging visas provide temporary legal status, helping you to stay in Australia without fear of unlawful status while awaiting the resolution of your case.

Eligibility Requirements:

Eligibility for a Bridging Visa depends on your individual circumstances and your immigration status. Common eligibility criteria include:

• Visa Application: You must apply for a new visa or have an ongoing immigration matter that requires you to stay in Australia while awaiting a decision.
• Health and Character: You must meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
• Immigration Status: The Bridging Visa is typically available to individuals who are in Australia unlawfully and need to regularize their stay.

Applying for a Bridging Visa:

The process for applying for a Bridging Visa involves submitting an application to the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide relevant documents and information to support your application, including:

• Details of your current immigration status.
• Any visa application or appeal that you are awaiting a decision on.
• Evidence of your intentions to remain in Australia legally.

Important Considerations:

• Travel Restrictions: If you hold a Bridging Visa, you must apply for permission to travel outside Australia. If you leave without authorization, you may lose your Bridging Visa and risk being unlawfully in Australia.
• Work Rights: Some Bridging Visas provide permission to work, while others may not. It is important to check your visa’s specific conditions to ensure you are complying.
• Status Resolution: Bridging Visas are temporary visas. You should work towards resolving your immigration status within the period granted by the Bridging Visa.