Everything You Need to Know About Bridging Visas in Australia – With Asquare Migration

When you're navigating Australia's complex immigration system, one visa you might encounter is the Bridging Visa. Often misunderstood yet vitally important, Bridging Visas play a crucial role in maintaining lawful status in Australia while your main visa application is being processed. At Asquare Migration, our team of MARA-registered agents ensures that your visa transition is smooth, legal, and stress-free.

What is a Bridging Visa?

A Bridging Visa is a temporary visa granted to individuals in Australia who are waiting for an application to be processed, or for a decision to be made about their immigration status. Essentially, it allows you to stay lawfully in the country while transitioning from one visa to another.

For instance, if your current visa is expiring but you've applied for a new substantive visa (like a student visa or partner visa), a Bridging Visa ensures you remain lawful until a decision is made on the new visa application.

Types of Bridging Visas in Australia

There are several types of Bridging Visas issued by the Department of Home Affairs, and each serves a specific purpose. The most commonly used Bridging Visas include:

  1. Bridging Visa A (BVA) – Subclass 010

When is it granted?

When you apply for a new substantive visa while still holding a valid visa.

What are the conditions?

  • Allows you to remain lawfully in Australia.
  • Does not permit travel outside Australia. If you leave, the visa becomes invalid.

How Asquare Migration Helps:

We ensure that your BVA is lodged accurately and on time to avoid unlawful stay and legal complications.

  1. Bridging Visa B (BVB) – Subclass 020

When is it granted?   

When you hold a Bridging Visa A and need to travel temporarily outside Australia.

What are the conditions?

  • Provides lawful stay in Australia.
  • Allows limited travel for a specified period.

Why You Need Expert Help:

Applying for a BVB involves strict timing and documentation. Asquare Migration ensures your travel plans are not disrupted due to technical errors or delays.

  1. Bridging Visa C (BVC) – Subclass 030

When is it granted?

When you apply for a visa after your previous visa has expired.

Key Considerations:

  • You are already unlawful in Australia when applying.
  • No travel rights.
  • Work rights are not guaranteed and must be applied for separately.

How We Help:

We assess your situation thoroughly and lodge your application strategically to maximize your chances of obtaining work rights and maintaining legal stay.

Why Bridging Visas Matter

Bridging Visas are often overlooked until they become urgently necessary. Here's why they're essential:

  • Maintain Legal Status: Avoid becoming unlawful while transitioning between visas.
  • Continue Working (if permitted): Some bridging visas allow work rights, which can be crucial.
  • Travel Arrangements: Bridging Visa B allows limited international travel.
  • Access to Medicare (in some cases): Depending on your situation, you may still have access to essential services.

Work Rights on Bridging Visas

One of the most common questions is: Can I work on a Bridging Visa?

Here's a brief overview:

  • BVA: Work rights depend on the visa you're applying for.
  • BVB: Same as BVA but with travel rights.
  • BVC & BVE: Generally, do not grant work rights unless you apply for them separately and show financial hardship.

Travel Conditions on Bridging Visas

Not all Bridging Visas allow you to leave and re-enter Australia. Only the BVB has specific travel rights. If you travel overseas on other types of Bridging Visas (like BVA, BVC, or BVE), the visa may cease upon departure.

Let Asquare Migration Help You Plan:

Whether it's a short trip or an emergency abroad, our advisors help you get a BVB on time, avoiding legal or logistical hassles.

What Happens If You Become Unlawful?

If your visa expires and you haven't applied for a new one or a bridging visa, you become an unlawful non-citizen. This can lead to:

  • Detention
  • Deportation
  • Future visa refusals due to character concerns

Act Early with Asquare Migration:

We strongly encourage you to seek help before your visa expires. Our experienced team acts promptly to regularize your status and guide you toward legal solutions.

Why Choose Asquare Migration for Your Bridging Visa Needs?

Asquare Migration is a trusted name in Australia's immigration consulting space. Here's why individuals and families choose us for Bridging Visa support:

✅ MARA-Registered Agents

Our advisors are registered with the Migration Agents Registration Authority, ensuring legal compliance and ethical service.

✅ Personalized Visa Solutions

No two cases are the same. We tailor strategies based on your visa history, legal status, work needs, and travel plans.

✅ Timely Submissions

Bridging Visa applications are time-sensitive. We act quickly to keep you legal and avoid complications.

✅ Complete Documentation Support

From forms and GTE statements to financial hardship evidence for work rights—we guide you through every step.

✅ Transparent Communication

You'll always know what's happening with your case, and we're here to answer your queries with clarity and honesty.

Real-Life Scenario: How We Helped a Client Stay Legal in Australia

A recent client approached Asquare Migration when their student visa expired and they hadn't applied for a new visa in time. They were at risk of becoming unlawful. Our team quickly stepped in, submitted a Bridging Visa E application, and advised on applying for a Graduate Visa. The client was able to stay in Australia legally, maintain their job, and eventually move on to a PR pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How long does a Bridging Visa last?

    It lasts until a decision is made on your substantive visa application or until you leave Australia, depending on the type of bridging visa.
  2. Can I apply for a Bridging Visa outside Australia?

    No, all Bridging Visas are for onshore applicants only.
  3. Will I get Medicare on a Bridging Visa?

    Possibly, depending on your situation and the visa you're applying for.
  4. Can I extend a Bridging Visa?

    You can't extend a Bridging Visa, but you may remain on it while awaiting a decision on your primary visa.

Conclusion

Bridging Visas are more than just a stopgap—they are vital for staying compliant with immigration law while transitioning between visas. Whether you need lawful stay, work rights, or urgent travel solutions, a Bridging Visa can provide the legal cover you need. Asquare Migration is here to guide you through every stage of your immigration journey. From expert advice to timely lodgment, our dedicated team ensures that your future in Australia remains secure and stress-free.