Visa applications often have lengthy processing times, ranging from several months to years, depending on the visa subclass. During this waiting period, many applicants in Australia remain on a Bridging Visa A (BVA), which acts as a temporary permit while their substantive visa application, appeal, or judicial review is processed.
However, a Bridging Visa A does not have travel rights. If you need to travel abroad, you must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB). The Department of Home Affairs requires applicants to provide a valid reason for traveling.
How to Apply for a Bridging Visa B
To be eligible for a BVB, you must meet the following criteria:
- You have an active substantive visa application lodged in Australia.
- Your substantive visa application is still under review and undecided.
- You intend to leave and return to Australia during the travel period.
- You have a valid reason for wishing to travel.
What Qualifies as a Valid Reason for Travel?
The Department of Home Affairs provides examples of acceptable reasons, including:
- Attending work-related or educational conferences.
- Participating in business meetings or negotiations.
- Undertaking academic research or presenting at a conference.
- Visiting a seriously ill family member or close friend.
- Attending a wedding or other culturally significant event.
- Attending a family member’s funeral.
- Undergoing medical treatment for an existing condition.
- Obtaining documents needed to meet visa criteria.
- Resolving custody issues involving family members.
- Taking a short holiday due to prolonged visa processing delays.
Key Points to Remember
Bridging Visa B must be approved before you exit Australia. If you leave the country without it, your Bridging Visa A will be invalidated, impacting your ongoing visa application and you will not be able to return.
A BVB application typically takes a few days to process. Plan accordingly and avoid making travel arrangements until your BVB is granted.
Always lodge your BVB application first, then book your flights to prevent complications.
By following these steps, you can manage your travel plans without jeopardising your visa application.