Applying for a Bridging Visa (BV) in Australia can be an essential step for individuals who are awaiting a decision on their work visa application or transitioning between different visas. The Bridging Visa allows you to remain in Australia legally while your work visa is being processed, and it can provide important rights such as work authorization and access to certain government services.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Bridging Visa in Australia, including the different types of Bridging Visas, eligibility requirements, application process, and practical tips for managing your legal status during this waiting period.
What is a Bridging Visa?
A Bridging Visa (BV) is a temporary visa that allows you to stay in Australia while you are waiting for a decision on a new visa application, an appeal, or other immigration matters. Bridging Visas help ensure that you do not become an unlawful non-citizen while waiting for your visa outcome.
There are several types of Bridging Visas, each serving a different purpose. The most common Bridging Visas used by individuals waiting for work visas include Bridging Visa A (BVA), Bridging Visa B (BVB), and Bridging Visa C (BVC).
Types of Bridging Visas and Their Uses
Here’s a breakdown of the different types of Bridging Visas relevant to individuals applying for or awaiting a work visa:
1. Bridging Visa A (BVA) – Subclass 010
- Purpose: Allows you to stay in Australia while your visa application is being processed. It is granted automatically if you apply for a new visa before your current visa expires.
- Conditions: Generally does not come with travel rights; you cannot leave Australia and return on a BVA.
- Work Rights: You may be eligible for work rights depending on the conditions of your initial visa and the type of new visa you have applied for. You can request work rights if you can demonstrate a compelling need to work.
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB) – Subclass 020
- Purpose: Similar to a BVA but with the added benefit of allowing you to travel outside Australia and return. This visa is suitable for individuals who need to leave the country temporarily while their work visa is being processed.
- Conditions: Must be in Australia when applying and have a valid BVA or Bridging Visa C (BVC).
- Work Rights: Typically granted with the same conditions as the BVA. You can work if you meet the requirements for work rights.
3. Bridging Visa C (BVC) – Subclass 030
- Purpose: Allows you to stay in Australia if you applied for a new visa after your previous visa expired. This visa is typically used by individuals who have become unlawful non-citizens and are now applying for a new substantive visa.
- Conditions: Usually does not grant travel rights. Work rights may be restricted, but you can apply for work rights based on financial hardship or other circumstances.
Eligibility Criteria for a Bridging Visa
The eligibility criteria for a Bridging Visa vary depending on the type of Bridging Visa you are applying for. Here are the general requirements for the most common types:
1. Bridging Visa A (BVA)
- Must be in Australia when applying for your new visa.
- Applied for a new substantive visa before your current visa expired.
- Holding a valid visa at the time of application.
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB)
- Must currently hold a Bridging Visa A or C.
- Must be in Australia at the time of application.
- Travel outside Australia is intended for a temporary period, and you have a valid reason for leaving and returning.
3. Bridging Visa C (BVC)
- Must be in Australia without a valid visa.
- Applying for a new substantive visa after your previous visa has expired.
How to Apply for a Bridging Visa
Applying for a Bridging Visa is usually a straightforward process, especially if you apply while submitting your new visa application. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Bridging Visa while waiting for your work visa:
Step 1: Lodge Your Work Visa Application
Before applying for a Bridging Visa, you must submit your work visa application. This could include applications for visas such as the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186), or other relevant work visas.
Tip: Apply for your new visa before your current visa expires to avoid becoming an unlawful non-citizen and to ensure automatic eligibility for a Bridging Visa A.
Step 2: Determine the Appropriate Bridging Visa
Once you have lodged your work visa application, determine which Bridging Visa is suitable for your situation:
- BVA: If you applied for a new visa while your current visa was still valid.
- BVB: If you need to travel temporarily while your work visa is being processed.
- BVC: If you applied for a new visa after your previous visa expired.
Step 3: Submit the Bridging Visa Application
If the Bridging Visa is not automatically granted when you apply for your work visa (as is the case with BVA), you will need to submit a separate Bridging Visa application.
Online Application via ImmiAccount
- Most Bridging Visa applications can be submitted online through the ImmiAccount portal.
- Log in or create an ImmiAccount to start the application process.
- Follow the instructions to complete the form, ensuring that you provide all required information and documents.
Required Documents
- Passport or Travel Document: A copy of the passport’s identification page.
- Proof of Work Visa Application: Confirmation that you have lodged a new visa application.
- Other Supporting Documents: Additional documents may be requested if applying for work rights or travel rights.
Step 4: Apply for Work Rights (If Needed)
If you are applying for a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or Bridging Visa C (BVC) and need work rights, you may need to demonstrate that you face financial hardship or have a compelling need to work.
Applying for Work Rights
- Complete Form 1005 (Application for a Bridging Visa) or the online form via ImmiAccount, including sections related to work rights.
- Provide Evidence of Financial Hardship: Bank statements, utility bills, or letters from employers that show your financial situation.
- Compelling Need to Work: Provide documentation that supports your need for employment.
Step 5: Monitor Your Application
After submitting your Bridging Visa application, monitor your ImmiAccount for updates. Processing times for Bridging Visas can vary, and you may be required to provide additional documentation if requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 6: Comply with Visa Conditions
If your Bridging Visa is granted, ensure that you comply with all visa conditions, such as not working if work rights have not been approved, not engaging in unlawful activities, and adhering to any travel restrictions.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Delayed Bridging Visa Approval
- Solution: Apply for the Bridging Visa as soon as you lodge your work visa application. This will help avoid any delays in getting your Bridging Visa approved.
- No Work Rights Granted
- Solution: Apply for work rights separately, providing evidence of financial hardship or a compelling need to work.
- Need to Travel Overseas While Holding a Bridging Visa A or C
- Solution: Apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to obtain travel rights. Make sure to submit the BVB application well in advance of your travel date.
FAQs on Bridging Visas
Q: How long does it take to process a Bridging Visa?
A: Processing times vary depending on the type of Bridging Visa and individual circumstances. Some Bridging Visas are granted automatically upon lodging a new visa application, while others may take a few weeks to process.
Q: Can I switch from a Bridging Visa A to a Bridging Visa B?
A: Yes, you can apply for a Bridging Visa B if you hold a Bridging Visa A and need to travel overseas temporarily.
Q: What happens if my work visa is refused while on a Bridging Visa?
A: If your work visa application is refused, your Bridging Visa may be canceled. You may be able to appeal the decision, apply for another visa, or make arrangements to leave Australia.
Conclusion
The Bridging Visa (BV) is a vital tool for maintaining your legal status in Australia while awaiting a decision on your work visa. Understanding the different types of Bridging Visas, meeting the eligibility criteria, and following the application process will help ensure that you can stay in the country legally and continue working if permitted.
Applying for a Bridging Visa while your work visa is being processed is a straightforward process that can provide peace of mind during uncertain times. Make sure to stay informed about the conditions of your Bridging Visa, comply with any restrictions, and be prepared to apply for work rights or travel rights if necessary.
Zara Adeyemi