bridging visa travel exemption

• Call Us: (02) 9590 3987
• 1/187 Marion Street, Leichhardt, NSW 2040 Australia
• [email protected]

SUBCLASS 020

Bridging visa b (bvb), table of contents.

This visa lets you leave and return to Australia during a specified travel period while your application for a substantive visa is being processed.

This visa grants you the following privileges:

• You can stay lawfully in Australia until your substantive visa application is finalised, or, if granted in association with judicial proceedings, until those proceedings are complete. 
• You can leave and return to Australia within the defined travel period while your substantive visa application is being processed.

You and anyone included in your BVB application must be in Australia to make a valid application and to be granted the bridging visa.

Eligibility Criteria

This visa includes the following criteria:

• You must have held a Substantive visa.
• You must already hold a BVA or a BVB.
• You must have made a valid application for a substantive visa that has not been finally determined or you have made an application for judicial review of a decision relating to your substantive visa application, within the prescribed time frame, and the judicial review proceedings have not been completed.
• You must apply within the prescribed time frame.
• You must provide a reason and attach any supporting documents to explain why you need to depart and return to Australia while your substantive visa is being considered or while you are waiting for the outcome of a judicial review.
• You will need to meet the character requirement.

Inclusion of Other Family Members

If applying together for a substantive visa in Australia, family members can be included in the BVB application, streamlining the process and reducing costs. Each family member must individually meet the BVB requirements.

• Only include family members with substantial reasons for international travel.
• Those not needing to travel can remain in Australia on their current bridging visas.

For those considering our services, we provide an initial meeting. In this session, we will simplify the legal aspects of the visa, explain the process ahead, and address any questions you may have.

To set up an initial discussion with us, please reach out to one of our experienced immigration lawyers at (02) 9590 3987.

Enquiry Form

If you would like to proceed with our firm or require further information, simply complete our enquiry form below or email or phone us.

We answer all your immigration questions

Send your message through our Enquiry Form and we’ll respond within 24 hours. Or, if you prefer, you can email or directly call us.

After an initial discussion, we can organise a confidential consultation with our legal experts to discuss all of your immigration needs.

We can come to you, you can come to us, or we can have a video or phone conference – whatever works best for your situation.

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION

The Immigration Lawyers practice solely in the field of Australian immigration law. Contact us for local expertise and give your visa application the best chances of success.

• © 2024 The Immigration Lawyers. All rights reserved.
• Web design by Spark Interact.
• Privacy Policy

We make it easy for you

• Consultation Policy
• Complaints Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Parent Visas
• Partner Visas
• Child Visas
• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
• Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
• Employer Nominated Visa (Subclass 186)
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
• Student Visa (Subclass 500)
• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
• Recognised Graduate Visa (Subclass 476)
• Training Visa (Subclass 407)
• Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408)
• Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188)
• Business Innovation and Investment Permanent visa (Subclass 888)
• E-Visitor Visa (Subclass 651)
• Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
• Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
• Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
• Refusal/Cancellation Merits Review (AAT)
• Request for Further Information – RFI (DoHA)
• Ministerial Intervention
• Skills Assessment
• Relationship Statement Guide for Partner Visa
• Relationship Statement Package Order Now
• How to write a Relationship statement guide for your Partner Visa
• Relationship Statement Guide Order Now
• How to apply for an Australian Visa?
• English Language Requirement
• How to find a job in Australia?
• SkillSelect – From EOI to Invitation
• How to Write an Australian Resume?
• Visa Assessment vs. Visa Consultation
• General Migration
• Family Migration Visas
• Skilled Migration Visas
• Employer Sponsored Visas
• Student and Graduate Visas FAQ
• Training & Temporary Activities Visas
• Business Visas
• Visitor and Working Holiday Visas
• Testimonials
• Traveling on a Bridging Visa

If you are waiting for your visa application to be processed and you wish to leave Australia while you wait, you can! As you may not already know, a bridging visa is a temporary visa we might grant you in certain circumstances. Bridging visas let you stay in Australia lawfully while your immigration status is resolved. And the type of bridging visa we might grant you depends on your circumstances.

While bridging visas let you remain in Australia lawfully, only a  Bridging visa B (BVB)  will let you leave and re-enter Australia while you wait for a decision.

You might be eligible for a BVB if any of the following circumstances apply to you:

• you hold a BVA or BVB
• you are awaiting a decision on an application that is not yet finally determined or is at judicial review
• you have a good reason for leaving and returning to Australia while you wait for the outcome of your visa application

A BVB lets you remain in Australia while we process your substantive visa application, or if you await a judicial or merits review.

It will also have a defined travel period. So, you can leave Australia and re-enter on a BVB within this defined travel period. If you are in Australia when the travel period ends and you need to travel outside Australia again, you can apply for another BVB.

When the Department determines the BVB travel period they will consider why you want to travel and the period of time it takes to likely make a decision on your substantive visa application

If you want to apply for a BVB, you will need to:

• provide evidence of your reason for travel outside Australia
• let the Department know when you intend to travel

As always, your visa grant notice will clearly define the travel period of your BVB if it is granted. Unfortunately, the Department can’t change or extend the BVB travel period after it is granted. You should consider applying for a BVB no more than 3 months and no less than 2 weeks before you want to travel.

Did you know that you can hold a substantive visa and a BVB at the same time? If you still hold a substantive visa that lets you leave Australia and return, but you think it might expire before you re-enter Australia, you might still choose to apply for a BVB and wait until it is granted before you travel. As long as you return to Australia within the BVB travel period, you can stay in Australia on the BVB while you wait for our decision on your visa application.

You will be notified of the specified travel period of the BVB in your visa grant notice if you are granted the visa. You can’t re-enter Australia on a BVB after the travel period ends. And, if you are outside Australia when the travel period ends, you will need to apply for and be granted another visa before you can re-enter. If you are in Australia when the travel period ends and you need to travel outside Australia again, you will need to apply for another BVB.

Your BVB ends if:

• you are granted the substantive visa you applied for
• you are granted another bridging visa
• the Department cancels your BVB or the substantive visa you held when you were granted the BVB
• you are outside Australia when the travel period ends
• you leave Australia after the travel period ends

Our Registered Migration Agents at Migration Centre of Australia have been in the migration industry for many years and have helped thousands of clients onshore and offshore. We are trained professionals in Australian Migration Law and we are trusted providers in the industry for our services. If you want to know more about traveling and applying for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) , contact us today on (02) 4626 1002 or send us an email at [email protected] and one of my registered migration agents will be ready to help you.

Related posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Popular Searches
• Hide Popular Searches
• migration agent sydney
• employer sponsored pr (visa)
• 186 visa australia
• temporary skills shortage visa
• 494 visa australia
• parent visa australia
• partner visa australia
• skilled migration australia
• 189 visa australia
• skilled nominated visa subclass 190
• 491 visa australia
• migration specialist sydney

Friday, 13 Oct 2023

• Documentation

What is a Bridging Visa? Everything you need to know

What happens if you’re current visa is about to expire and you haven’t received a response regarding your new application? Even worse, what should you do if your current visa has already expired? Well, you can still stay legally by applying for a bridging visa.

A bridging visa is a temporary visa that allows you to stay legally in Australia. It gives you time to either apply for a new visa or make arrangements for your departure from Australia.

In this guide, you’ll learn more about the types of bridging visas, their eligibility requirements, conditions, and more.

Table of Contents

Visa Overview

Processing times, what is a bridging visa in australia, who needs a bridging visa, bridging visa b (bvb), bridging visa c (bvc), bridging visa d (bvd), bridging visa e (bve), bridging visa f (bvf), bridging visa r (bvr), is bridging visa a temporary visa, can i apply for another visa while on bridging visa a, what is the difference between bridging visas a and c.

• Enjoy a smoother bridging visa application with the support of a registered agent.

A bridging visa is a special type of visa designed to ‘bridge’ the gap between the expiration of your current visa and the decision on your new visa application. It allows non-Australian citizens to remain in the country lawfully during this waiting period.

Generally, you can only apply for a bridging visa if you hold or previously held a substantive visa .

Substantive visas are types of visas that allow for long-term stays or permanent residency . This includes work, student, and family visas such as:

• Skilled Regional Visa – 887 visa  
• Temporary Graduate Visa – 485 visa  
• Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa – 870 visa

On the other hand, non-substantive visas are temporary and short-term, including bridging visas, enforcement visas, and criminal justice visas.

You will need a bridging visa if you are in one of these immigration situations:

You’re in Australia on a temporary visa, but it has expired, and you’re waiting for a decision on your new visa application.

Sample scenario: You’ve been studying in Australia on a student visa that has expired. You’ve applied for a skilled worker visa to continue your career in the country. 

While waiting for the decision on your skilled worker visa application, you apply for a bridging visa. This maintains your legal status and allows you to pursue the job opportunity once your application is approved.

You’ve applied for a substantive visa, but it’s still being processed, and you need to stay in Australia briefly.

Sample scenario: You’ve submitted an application to extend your student visa so you can continue to study in Australia . However, the processing of your extension is taking longer than expected. 

To ensure you can legally remain in Australia to finish your studies, you apply for a bridging visa. Then, you simply wait for the extension outcome.

Your substantive visa application has been denied, but you have appealed the decision and you need to stay in Australia while your appeal is being processed

Sample scenario: Your partner visa application has been denied. You have appealed the decision, and you need to stay with your family in Australia while the appeal is in process. 

To remain in the country legally, you apply for a bridging visa during the appeal.

You have been granted a substantive visa, but you need to stay in Australia briefly before you can travel on that new visa.

Sample scenario: You hold a temporary work visa in Australia and have just been granted a skilled worker visa. 

However, before the activation of your new skilled worker visa, there’s a brief waiting period, typically a few weeks to a couple of months. During this time, you need to stay in Australia to complete specific job assignments.

To be able to remain lawfully in Australia during this time, you apply for a bridging visa.

You have been granted a substantive visa, but you need to leave and return to Australia briefly before settling there permanently.

Sample scenario: You’ve been granted a parent visa to join your family in Australia permanently. 

However, there is an urgent need for you to briefly return to your home country for personal reasons before you can settle in Australia permanently. 

To ensure your ability to return and maintain your visa status during this short absence, you secure a bridging visa.

Understanding the different bridging visa types

A bridging visa can help you maintain lawful status in Australia during these transitional periods, but they may come with limitations on certain activities. Below are the types of bridging visas in Australia.

Bridging Visa A (BVA)

Bridging Visa A (Subclass 010) allows you to stay in Australia after your current substantive visa expires, and while your new visa is being processed.

Once your BVA is in effect, you must stay in Australia. Travelling overseas will end your BVA.

• Stay in Australia lawfully while you wait for your new substantive visa to be approved
• Work in Australia (subject to visa conditions)

Work rights

Typically, the BVA allows you to engage in work in Australia.

However, keep in mind that certain BVA grants might not permit work. In such cases, you should apply for a new BVA that allows work, although this can only be made if you can demonstrate financial hardships.

Eligibility Requirements

• You must be in Australia when applying for BVA.
• Your current substantive visa should be expiring or expired.
• You must have applied for a new substantive visa.
• Your BVA starts the moment it’s granted and your current substantive visa has expired.
• You leave Australia during its validity
• You are granted the new substantive visa
• Another bridging visa linked to the same substantive visa application as this BVA is granted
• If you hold a substantive visa upon BVA grant, you must continue to comply with the conditions of the substantive visa. When your substantive visa ends, the conditions of your BVA will apply.
• Your initial substantive visa application didn’t include a BVA application.
• You were granted a BVA or a Bridging Visa B (BVB), but it’s no longer valid, and you meet the conditions for a new BVA.
• You’re pursuing a BVA without work limitations.
• You’ve applied for a judicial review.
• The Department of Home Affairs (DoHA) cancels either your BVA or the substantive visa linked to your BVA.
• You can’t stay in Australia longer by extending this visa.

The 010 visa is usually granted automatically upon applying for a substantive visa.

How do I apply for bridging visa A?

Bridging Visa A is usually granted automatically when you apply for a substantive visa.

However, if a separate application is needed due to one or more of the reasons stated in the conditions, you must apply through your ImmiAccount.

The Bridging Visa B (Subclass 020) allows you to stay in Australia legally while your substantive visa is being processed. It also permits you to leave and return to Australia for a defined travel period (within 3 to 12 months)

Basically, it is similar to a BVA, but with the benefit of being able to depart and come back to Australia.

• Leave and return to Australia for a set period of time

With a BVB, you can work in Australia given that your previous substantive visa or the visa you applied for allows it.

Otherwise, you will not be able to work with a BVB.

To get approval for work, consider applying for a BVA, where you’ll need to demonstrate that you are in financial hardships.

• You must be in Australia when applying for BVB
• Your BVB starts the moment it’s granted and your current substantive visa has expired.
• You are granted the new substantive visa.
• Your substantive visa is denied.
• Your BVB or substantive visa is cancelled by DoHA.
• You must have substantial reasons for wanting to travel

The 020 visa processing time varies depending on individual circumstances. To avoid delays in your application, make sure to complete your application thoroughly and promptly respond to any information requests from DoHA. 

How to apply for bridging visa B?

You must apply for the bridging visa B through your ImmiAccount.

The Bridging Visa C (Subclass 030) is typically granted to people who are in Australia unlawfully, and who are either currently making arrangements to depart the country or waiting for a decision on a substantive visa application.

The BVC allows them to stay in Australia legally and temporarily. 

• Stay in Australia lawfully while you’re waiting for your new substantive visa to be approved or making arrangements to depart Australia
• Work in Australia (if eligible) 

Typically, a BVC doesn’t allow you to work, unless you’ve applied for specific SkillSelect visas:

• Business Talent visa (subclass 132)
• Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa (subclass 188)
• Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888)
• Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)
• Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme visa (subclass 187)
• Skilled — Independent visa (subclass 189)
• Skilled — Nominated visa (subclass 190) 
• Skilled — Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 489).

You may apply for another BVC that lets you work. However, you will be required to provide proof that you are experiencing financial hardship.

• You must be in Australia when applying for BVC
• You must not have held a substantive visa when you lodged your application for a substantive visa.
• You must have applied for a substantive visa.
• You must not hold a Bridging Visa E (BVE), and must not have held a BVE since you last held a substantive visa
• Your BVC starts the moment it’s granted and your current substantive visa has expired.
• You leave Australia while your BVC is in effect
• Your BVC or substantive visa is cancelled by DoHA.
• As a BVC holder, you are not eligible for BVB while your substantive visa application is being processed.
• If you hold a substantive visa upon BVC grant, you must continue to comply with the conditions of the substantive visa. When your substantive visa ends, the conditions of your BVC will apply.

The 030 visa processing time varies depending on individual circumstances. To avoid delays in your application, make sure to complete your application thoroughly and promptly respond to any information requests from DoHA. 

How to apply for bridging visa C?

You must apply for the bridging visa C through your ImmiAccount.

The Bridging Visa D (Subclass 040 and 041) is a bridging visa that allows you to stay lawfully in Australia for a short period (typically 5 working days).

This gives you time to either lodge an application for a substantive visa, arrange your departure from Australia, or apply for another bridging visa.

The difference between the two subclasses lies in the eligibility requirements.

• Stay in Australia lawfully while you lodge a new substantive visa application or arrange your departure from Australia.

A BVD strictly prohibits you from working in Australia. If you violate this rule, your BVD is highly likely to be cancelled.

For Subclass 040:

• You must be in Australia when applying for BVD
• You must not hold a substantive visa or the substantive visa you hold should expire within three working days.
• You attempted but were unsuccessful in applying for a substantive visa – for example, you couldn’t pay the correct fee or you completed the wrong application form. 

However, you’ll be able to reapply within the next 5 working days, making you potentially eligible for a BVC by then.

For Subclass 041:

• You must be in Australia when applying for BVD.
• You must not hold a substantive visa.
• You are either do not want or unable to apply for a substantive visa.
• An authorised immigration officer is not available to interview you.
• Five working days after the grant or five days after the expiration of your substantive visa, or
• If you are granted a BVE within those 5 days
• You cannot travel outside Australia on this visa.

The 040 visa processing time varies depending on individual circumstances. To avoid delays in your application, make sure to complete your application thoroughly and promptly respond to any information requests from DoHA. 

How to apply for bridging visa D?

Generally, when you submit an invalid substantive visa application in Australia, you will also be automatically considered for a BVD.

There may be situations where a separate application is necessary. In such cases, you must:

• Complete Form 1007 Application for a Bridging Visa D
• Send the form, along with the necessary supporting documents, by post to the nearest Australian Visa and Citizenship office.

The Bridging Visa E is divided into two subclasses:

• Subclass 050 

This visa lets you stay lawfully in Australia when you need more time to make arrangements for your departure, settle any immigration matters, or wait for a decision on your immigration status.

• Subclass 051

This visa allows you to stay in Australia while your Protection visa application is being reviewed.

• Stay in Australia lawfully
• Work in Australia (subject to conditions)

Typically, a BVE does not allow you to work.

You may be able to apply for a new BVE that lets you work. However, you will be required to provide proof that you are experiencing financial hardship.

For the Subclass 050:

• You’re making arrangements to leave Australia
• You’re applying for a substantive visa
• You’re applying for merits or a judicial review
• You, as well as your other family members, must meet character requirements.

For the Subclass 051:

• You must have been denied immigration clearance or evaded immigration clearance, and come to our attention within 45 days.
• You must have applied for a protection visa.
• You must be in immigration detention.
• You must meet health and character requirements.
• Your BVE starts the moment it’s granted.
• You leave Australia
• Your BVE is cancelled by DoHA.

The processing time for BVE varies depending on individual circumstances. To avoid delays in your application, make sure to complete your application thoroughly and promptly respond to any information requests from DoHA. 

How to apply for bridging visa E?

You can apply for the BVE through your online ImmiAccount.

You may also opt for a paper application:

• Complete Form 1008 Application for Bridging Visa E – subclass 050
• Send your application by post to the nearest Australian Visa and Citizenship office.

The Bridging Visa F (subclass 060) is granted exclusively to suspected victims of human trafficking, slavery, and similar forms of abuse.

• Stay in Australia for up to 30 days
• Include family members in the application
• Receive care and support for the duration of your stay

Typically, a BVF does not allow you to work.

To be eligible for this visa, you must have been identified by DoHA as a suspected victim of human trafficking, slavery, and similar forms of abuse.

• You cannot leave Australia without permission from DoHA.
• Reporting to DoHA when required
• Notifying DoHA promptly regarding any changes to your address
• You must comply with any other conditions or requirements attached to your BVF.

The processing time for BVF applications varies depending on individual circumstances. 

How to apply for bridging visa F?

You cannot apply for a BVF directly. You must be invited to apply by the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs.

Following this, they will assist you on how to proceed, including forms you have to complete, as well as the arrangements for your stay in Australia.

The Bridging Visa R (subclass 070) is granted to those in immigration detention who are facing pending removal from Australia by the Australian Government. It acts as a temporary release from detention when their removal from Australia is not currently possible.

• Stay in Australia until your removal from Australia is reasonably practicable.

Typically, a BVR does not allow for work.

To be eligible for this visa, you must be in immigration detention and facing pending removal from Australia by the Australian Government.

• You must cooperate as much as you can with DoHA to expedite your removal from Australia.
• Your BVR ends immediately once your removal is reasonably practicable. You will receive this notification in writing from the Minister.
• Informing DoHA of your residential address
• You must comply with any other conditions or requirements attached to your BVR.

The processing time for BVR applications varies depending on individual circumstances. 

How to apply for a bridging visa R?

You cannot apply for a BVR directly. If you qualify for the BVR, you will be invited to apply by the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs.

Following this, they will guide you on how to proceed.

Yes, bridging visas are temporary visas. Their main purpose is to allow you to stay in Australia for a limited period, giving you time to either apply for a substantive visa, arrange your departure from Australia, or wait for a decision on another visa application.

Yes, you can apply for another visa while on a Bridging Visa A (BVA). However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

• You can only apply for a substantive visa, not another bridging visa.
• You must meet all of the eligibility requirements for the visa you are applying for.
• You must apply for the visa before your current BVA expires.

The main difference between Bridging Visas A and C lies in the applicant’s current immigration status in Australia.

A BVA is granted to people who are already in Australia on a substantive visa and have applied for another substantive visa before their current visa expires.

On the other hand, A BVC is for people who are in Australia unlawfully and who are making arrangements to depart from Australia, or who are waiting for a decision on a substantive visa application.

Enjoy a smoother bridging visa application with the support of a registered agent. 

Save yourself the stress of handling the numerous requirements for a bridging visa application…

At KBA Global, we’ve helped countless people achieve their dreams of studying, working, and living in Australia. We keep up with all the latest immigration changes to make sure your bridging visa application is complete and on time.

Make your stay in Australia lawful and enjoyable! Book a call and let us know how we can help you.

Sydney Office – Head Office

• [email protected]
• (02) 9597 7386
• 3/1-3 King St, Rockdale NSW 2216

Darwin Office

• [email protected]
• 1800 522 456
• 4/4 Shepherd St, Darwin City, NT 0800 Australia

Hobart Office

• [email protected]
• (03) 6135 4949
• 1/130 Collins St, Hobart TAS 7000

Perth Office

• [email protected]
• (08) 9228 8075
• 2/91 Aberdeen Street, North Bridge, WA 6003

Melbourne Office

• [email protected]
• 0423 690 423
• Suite 10, Level 1/343 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Cagayan de Oro Office

• [email protected]
• +639666215381
• RN Abejuela Street, Chavez Building, Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro City

Tuguegarao Office

• [email protected]
• +639164628810
• 2nd floor. Solomon bldg. Centro 11, Balzain east Tuguegarao City

Kathmandu Office

• [email protected]
• +977 147 95576
• 6th Floor, Omkar Building, New Baneshwor, Madan Bhandari Road, Kathmandu 44600

Butwal Office

• [email protected]
• +977 715 46106
• Milanchowk - 9, Butwal Near Sunrise Bank 

Chitwan Office

• [email protected]
• +977 565 90154
• Nepal Bank Building, Lionschowk, Narayangadh, Chitwan

Nigeria Office

• [email protected]
• +2349131870293
• 10 Hughes Avenue Alagomeji, Yaba Lagos

Australia: Travel exemptions: navigating COVID-19 restrictions and what you need to know before you travel

Currently, nationwide travel restrictions remain in place, affecting thousands of people wishing to exit or enter Australia. A request for a 'travel exemption' is the only means by which some individuals and families can cross national borders and exit or re-enter the country.

The following groups do not require a travel exemption to enter Australia:

-Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members

-New Zealand citizens usually resident in Australia and their immediate family members

However, for non-citizens of Australia, including bridging and temporary visa holders on a wide range of visa classes, ongoing travel restrictions mean continued 'lockout' from international travel for a still undefined and uncertain period of time. The impact of these travel delays on individuals, their businesses, their families and on the economy are immeasurable.

Applying for a travel exemption in the form prescribed by the Australian Government can be time-consuming and valid reasons for lodging an application are limited.

The rates of successful travel exemptions in the various categories provide a snapshot of the current situation. Recent figures published by the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force under the Freedom of Information process indicate that between 20 March and 31 July 2020, roughly 25% of outbound travel from Australia was approved, compared to 22% of inbound travel requests.

This makes staying up to date with changes and having detailed knowledge of travel exemption requirements all the more imperative.

Who can apply for a travel exemption?

Information issued by the Department of Home Affairs and updated on 2 September 2020 outlines that applicants for exemptions are required to fall within a number of categories.

A request for a travel exemption must be applied for by each individual wishing to travel who is not automatically exempt.

The Commissioner of the Australian Border Force may grant an individual exemption if the applicant:

• is invited: a non-citizen travelling at the invitation of the Australian Government or a state or territory government authority for the purpose of assisting in the COVID-19 response;
• works in critical services: providing critical or specialist medical services, including air ambulance, medical evacuations and delivering critical medical supplies;
• has 'Critical Skills' : a non-citizen with critical skills or working in a critical sector in Australia as defined by the Australian Government;
• has an occupation on the 'PMSOL' : a non-citizen sponsored by their employer to work in Australia in an occupation on the Priority Migration Skilled Occupation List (PMSOL);
• has Government support: a non-citizen whose entry would otherwise be in the national interest, supported by the Australian Government or a state or territory government authority;
• is military personnel : including those who form part of the Status of Forces Agreement, Commonwealth Armed Forces, Asia Pacific Forces and Status of Armed Forces Agreement; or
• is travelling for compassionate and compelling reasons.

How can you apply for a travel exemption?

On 17 July 2020, the process for requesting an exemption from Australia's travel restrictions moved to a new, online service delivery platform maintained by the Department of Home Affairs.

New features of the platform include improved tracking of the progress of requests, easier uploading of supporting documents and the linking of group and family member requests.

Applicants are advised to request an exemption at least two weeks , but not more than three months , before the planned travel.

All applicants must hold a visa and an exemption to Australia's travel restrictions before travel. With the exception of the 'Critical Skills' category, the visa must be valid at the time of lodging the travel exemption request.

The travel exemption request must include:

• traveller details : name, date of birth, visa type and number, passport number;
• proposed residential address and phone number in Australia;
• the reasons for coming : why the applicant should be granted an exemption;
• a supporting statement : setting out how the applicant meets one of the grounds for an exemption;
• accompanying evidence : appropriate evidence to support the claim for exemption, which may include:
• proof of identity
• evidence of holding a valid visa
• travel itinerary
• marriage, birth, death certificate/s
• proof of relationship or residence (such as a shared tenancy agreement, joint bank account, etc.)
• letter from a doctor or hospital, indicating why travel is necessary
• letter from an employer indicating why travel is necessary
• supporting letter from a business or government agency, advising why the applicant's skills are critical
• statutory declaration to support the applicant's claims.

All documents need to be officially translated into English and requests may be finalised without further consideration if insufficient evidence is provided.

Need assistance? Madison Marcus can help.

Applying for a travel exemption can be complicated and stressful. Our dedicated team of specialists can help you navigate the complex processes involved in preparing and lodging a request application. We have had great success helping Australian visa holders (including a wide range of bridging, temporary business and student visa holders) both depart and re-enter the country for urgent personal and business reasons. Plus, we continue to assist communities particularly affected by the border closures.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

  © Mondaq® Ltd 1994 - 2024. All Rights Reserved .

Login to Mondaq.com

Password Passwords are Case Sensitive

Forgot your password?

Why Register with Mondaq

Free, unlimited access to more than half a million articles (one-article limit removed) from the diverse perspectives of 5,000 leading law, accountancy and advisory firms

Articles tailored to your interests and optional alerts about important changes

Receive priority invitations to relevant webinars and events

You’ll only need to do it once, and readership information is just for authors and is never sold to third parties.

Your Organisation

We need this to enable us to match you with other users from the same organisation. It is also part of the information that we share to our content providers ("Contributors") who contribute Content for free for your use.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Australia to reopen international border on 21 February

Scott Morrison announces all fully vaccinated visa holders will be able to enter, two years after Covid border closure

• Get our free news app ; get our morning email briefing
• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates

Australia will open its border for fully vaccinated tourists and all visa holders, a decision branded “bittersweet” by those who have missed funerals in recent weeks due to ongoing restrictions.

Scott Morrison on Monday announced the nation would open to all fully vaccinated visa holders, including tourists, on 21 February, almost two years after borders were first closed.

The borders have been progressively opening since November, but some groups including bridging visa holders, some immediate family members and tourists were yet to be allowed exemption-free travel.

The announcement on Monday provoked mixed emotions among those who have remained trapped by ongoing restrictions in recent months, including for Gold Coast resident Amy Jade Newsome, who is on a bridging visa while she waits a decision on a skilled worker visa.

Newsome was denied a compassionate exemption to attend her aunt’s funeral in the UK last month, meaning she would have been trapped abroad if she had left Australia.

“It’s bittersweet and almost like the timing, it just couldn’t be any worse, I guess,” Newsome told Guardian Australia.

“I’m happy to be able to go home, but it’s been just over a month and now I can go? It’s a huge amount of emotions. Anger, happiness, frustration – I’m happy for everyone else and myself, I suppose, that we can go home.”

Bridging visa holders were the last temporary visa category subject to a closed border, forcing them to apply for travel exemptions. Freedom of information data showed about 70% of bridging visa holders’ exemption applications were being rejected.

Latest: Australia 🇦🇺🦘will reopen its borders to fully vaccinated tourists from February 21, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces — ending some of the world's strictest and longest pandemic travel bans. — Alex Macheras (@AlexInAir) February 7, 2022

Get vaccinated. Get your booster. You not only won't die but you can visit Australia. — Stephen McDonell (@StephenMcDonell) February 7, 2022

In one case reported by Guardian Australia, the federal government rejected six compassionate exemption applications made by Sydney woman Ash Fadian, a bridging visa holder wanting to travel to her brother-in-law’s funeral in the UK.

“I’m beyond devastated. I’m just gutted to be treated like this,” she said late last month.

Exemptions from aged care workers on bridging visas trapped overseas were also rejected, denying the industry staff at a time of acute shortages.

The decision to open the border has also been welcomed by Australian residents who have been unable to reunite with immediate family.

The government had pledged to allow immediate family to reunite prior to Christmas, but the changes introduced last year did not define adult sons and daughters of Australian residents as “immediate family”. That meant people like Stewart Hayter, an Adelaide-based grandfather , was unable to see his daughter and two grandchildren, who both live with autism.

Hayter’s frustration was compounded by Morrison’s public plea for working backpackers and students to “come on down” last month . He described those comments as a “slap in the face” to those struggling to deal with prolonged separation from their families.

Hayter welcomed Morrison’s announcement on Monday as “great news”, which will enable him to be reunited with his family after more than two years.

In making the announcement, which had been expected , Morrison emphasised the need for travellers to be fully vaccinated and referenced the Novak Djokovic scandal, saying “events earlier in the year should have sent a very clear message to everyone around the world” that Australia requires visitors to be fully vaccinated.

Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning

The tourism industry was quick to welcome the news.

Tourism & Transport Forum chief executive, Margy Osmond, said the sector was “thrilled” but that there was still detail to be worked through.

“There will be some issues around the technicalities of this. There’s work to be done. It’s not as simple as just turning on the tap,” she said.

The Business Council of Australia said the reopening put Australia in a position to “supercharge our economic recovery”.

“This move brings to an end fortress Australia,” said chief executive, Jennifer Westacott. “This is the light at the end of the tunnel that small business, tourism operators and the events industry was desperate to see.”

• Australia news
• Scott Morrison
• Australian immigration and asylum
• Coronavirus
• Australia holidays
• Tourism (Australia)

Most viewed

Can bridging visa holders travel overseas without exemption? Here's the answer

On late monday, australia decided to defer the reopening of borders to international students, skilled migrants and others from 1 december to 15 december following concerns over the omicron strain. earlier, the department of home affairs had clarified rules for travellers on bridging visas..

Prime Minister Scott Morrison. (file) Source: AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

• PM Scott Morrison is likely to hold a meeting of national cabinet on Tuesday
• Department of Home Affairs suggests travel exemption doesn't apply to those on a bridging visa
• States are considering mandatory quarantine in wake of Omicron strain of coronavirus

'Temporary graduates will be able to apply for replacement visas in 2022': Alan Tudge

Australia clarifies rules for onshore international students, temporary migrants planning to travel overseas

Indian High Commission in Australia clarifies doubts for OCI cardholders travelling to India

Share this with family and friends

Most popular

International students may face difficulties in filing for permanent residency due to lack of knowledge

SBS Hindi News

Home > Blog > Bridging visas

Bridging visas

Introduction

Bridging Visas are temporary visas that are granted for a number of reasons. They are not substantive visas – rather, they are visas that allow you to remain in Australia while you resolve matters relating to a substantive visa.

Types of Bridging Visas

There are many different bridging visas that can come into effect depending on the applicant’s circumstances. They are:

• You must hold or have held a substantive visa
• You must be in Australia
• You must be waiting for a decision on a lodged visa application or for judicial review
• You must be holding a BVA or BVB
• Have substantial reasons for wanting to travel

You must be waiting for a decision on a visa application, or for judicial review

• You must not have previously held, or currently hold, a BVE since your last substantive visa
• You must not have held a substantive visa at time of lodgement
• Be an unlawful non-citizen or hold a subclass 050 or 041 visa
• Previously had your visa application refused or cancelled
• Applied for a protection visa
• Have been refused or bypassed immigration clearance
• Be in immigration detention

Others less common bridging visas are the:

• Subclass 040 (Bridging (Prospective Applicant), (Subclass 040);
• Subclass 041 (Bridging (Non-applicant), (Subclass 041);
• Subclass 060 (Bridging F), (BVF);
• Subclass 070 (Bridging (Removal Pending)), (BVR).

Am I eligible for a Subclass 010 (Bridging A) visa (BVA)?

The BVA can be granted if you are in any of the following circumstance:

• If you have applied for a visa that can be granted while you are in Australia, the BVA may be granted until the decision is made on that application. For example, you may have applied for a Partner visa while visiting Australia. Since the onshore partner visa can only be granted while the applicant is onshore, a BVA will be granted so that you can stay in Australia while the visa is processing. If you were holding a substantive visa when you applied or were granted the BVA, the BVA only becomes active on the day the substantive visa ceases. If the application for the substantive visa is refused, and a review process does not follow afterwards, the BVA will expire in 35 days.
• If you have applied for a visa that can be granted while you are in Australia while holding a BVA, but the application was refused, and you have made an application for judicial review. Once the judicial review proceedings, and any appeal proceedings, are concluded, or you decide to withdraw your application for review or appeal, then the BVA will expire in 28 days.

Are there mandatory conditions on the BVA?

If the visa is granted, the following conditions will be attached to your visa.

This condition only applies if you applied for a protection visa, and if you have already had this condition applied to your last visa.

If you have made an application for a Skilled visa, this condition will apply.

If you are the holder of a 457 visa applying for a 482 visa, this condition will apply.

If you made an application for a Parent visa (either a 103 or 143 visa), this condition may apply depending on the details of your application.

8107, 8501, 8607

This condition only applies if you are a holder of a 457 visa applying for a 482 visa.

8101, 8102, 8103, 8104, 8105, 8107, 8108, 8111, 8112, 8114, 8115, 8539, 8547, 8549, 8607 and 8608

If the last visa you held had any of these conditions attached, this condition will apply.

Travel rights on the Bridging Visa

While your substantial visa application (for example, an onshore Partner visa) is processing, you may want to travel overseas. You can travel on a Bridging Visa B (BVB). To apply for a BVB you must have substantial reasons to leave and re-enter Australia during the processing of your current substantial visa application.

Your reasons to leave Australia should be substantial. Although there is no legal definition of the word, the BVB will be decided based on whether the reasons as real, important, and urgent.

Some examples of substantial reasons are:

• To visit parents and family who are ill
• Attending a conference
• To attend a wedding or funeral of a close family member, relative or friend
• Undergoing medical treatment for an existing condition

You should attach documentation evidencing your circumstances, such as a death certificate, letter of invitation, or flight itinerary.

Your BVB application should be made up to 3 months before the date of intended travel. You should not leave Australia before the grant of the BVB.

You must ensure that your BVB does not cease while you are outside of Australia. You cannot made a valid application for a new BVB while you are outside Australia, in order to return to Australia. You will have to apply for a new substantive visa while overseas in order to return. As such, be aware of the expiry date of the BVB and the process of your substantive visa application.

Work Rights on the Bridging Visa

Some Bridging Visas have conditions that prevent a person from engaging in work. These conditions are 8101, 8102, 8103, 8104, 8105, 8107, 8108, 8111, 8112, 8115, 8547, 8607 or 8608.

However, you can make a request for work rights while on a Bridging Visa if you can provide reasons demonstrating a compelling need to work.

For work rights on a BVA, the substantive visa application in relation to the BVA must not be a protection visa. You need to be in Australia when making the application.

Further, you need to show that you have a compelling need to work, by showing that you are currently in financial hardship because the cost of your living expenses exceeds your ability to pay for them. For example, you may not have enough savings to pay for bills, groceries, and rental expenses. Further, you may not have any family members that can support you while you are in Australia.

Our Services

What our clients say about us.

We worked with Adam and the expert Visa & Citizenship Lawyers team. We had a tight timeline to get our work

We worked with Adam and the expert Visa & Citizenship Lawyers team. We had a tight timeline to get our work sponsored nomination and visa applications lodged in time. The team went above and beyond to make sure that our business and our candidate’s family all got the visas

Trusted hands. Kept us well informed throughout the process of securing Australian citizenship for our child born overseas.

We sincerely appreciate Visa and Citizenship lawyers team. They professionally help us to get our

We sincerely appreciate Visa and Citizenship lawyers team. They professionally help us to get our desired visa. Thank you for your support.

Visa and Citizenship Lawyers came up trumps for us when we really needed the visa. Swift and clear instructions

Visa and Citizenship Lawyers came up trumps for us when we really needed the visa. Swift and clear instructions every step of the way. Highly recommend

Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value

Excellent & professional service from

Excellent & professional service from the entire team. Extremely grateful, for the service you provide.

The team @ Visa and Citizenship Lawyers were awesome, very professional at all times. Highly recommended.

Adam and his team really went above and beyond to help my fiancé and I be

Adam and his team really went above and beyond to help my fiancé and I be reunited. We had been separated for 16 months due to border closures and had made numerous travel exemption requests which had all been rejected. However, after implementing the advice provided by Visa & Citizenship Lawyers, my fiancé’s travel exemption request was approved within 24 hours of submission. We are now once again able to get on with our lives together which is just incredible.

If you are struggling like we were to find your way through all the confusion, I highly recommend getting in touch with Adam and his team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers

Just the way I like it, a team that performs and gets the job done. The

Just the way I like it, a team that performs and gets the job done. The process went smooth, involved lawyers and paralegals were easy to reach and prompt with responding. Will be my choice of in the future!

I am truly thankful that I found Visa and Citizenship Lawyers online

I am truly thankful that I found Visa and Citizenship Lawyers online via a Facebook group when my partner and I were separated for over two years during the border lockdowns. My partner and I decided to engage Adam and his team in July 2022. Right from the start, our lawyer was very engaged in our case. He always answered our questions promptly, clarified issues for us patiently, and most importantly, he guided us around the insufficient relationship evidence we had due to our long separation and pointed out errors we had written down inadvertently. The entire process of gathering over countless documents to prove that our relationship is genuine and ongoing has been arduous, stressful, and emotional too. But through the entire journey, I am comforted by the fact that we have a capable lawyer guiding us and standing behind us to ensure that we were on the right path. I was at peace knowing that we have a capable, confident, and experienced team to ensure that our application is as watertight as possible and that we did not make any mistakes. I always knew that the visa grant is not in our lawyers’ hands. But the Visa and Citizenship Lawyers team helped us put together the best and strongest possible application, and they did an excellent job. I am grateful for them and I recommend them highly.

5 Stars PLUS for the service you guys provided. From the explanations of the

5 Stars PLUS for the service you guys provided. From the explanations of the processes to responsive communications.

I would like to thank you all involved for the great effort and result that was achieved, thank you, it is greatly appreciated from both Parichat and I.

If I could give Visa & Citizenship Lawyers 10 stars I would! The team

Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value If I could give Visa & Citizenship Lawyers 10 stars I would! The team were amazing in getting me an exemption to leave Australia and see my loved ones overseas after more than a year of separation due to the travel ban. I can’t recommend them highly enough. Their service was comprehensive, sensitive and professional. I feel that their fees were extremely reasonable for the services they offered. Thank you so much to everyone at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers for giving me my future back. I am so grateful.

Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness

Adam is really helpful and professional. He helped me get my

Adam is really helpful and professional. He helped me get my 482 subclass visa and guided me through the whole process (which is quite complex!). Best thing really was the level of communication and clarity: even though I’m sure I wasn’t his only client at the time, Adam’s replies to my (many) queries were really rapid and on point. I highly recommend them!

I would like to thanks Adam for his help and excellent service in

I would like to thanks Adam for his help and excellent service in obtaining visa’s for my parents. He has been of utmost assistance and would recommend his services to anyone.

I would highly recommend Adam. My husband and I are extremely

I would highly recommend Adam. My husband and I are extremely thankful for Adam’s effort in assisting us with our visa process. He is extremely supportive and really professional. Thanks

Adam and his team provided an exceptional service – very

Adam and his team provided an exceptional service – very knowledgeable and responsive.

Adam is a truly the best lawyer with lot of patience, professional and dedicated towards achieving an Australian visa. I’ve had a few

Adam is a truly the best lawyer with lot of patience, professional and dedicated towards achieving an Australian visa. I’ve had a few conversations regarding my visa. He was also able to educate me in regards to the laws, rules and regulations in simple term as well as provide me with the pros and cons of my complex situation. He was honest and realistic throughout my whole visa process. What a pleasure to work with such a fantastic lawyer who not only does a great job on the case but also made a difficult journey a lot easier. Best Immigration lawyer out there!

Adam and his team are incredible. They absolutely know Australian

Adam and his team are incredible. They absolutely know Australian migration and citizenship law. They’ve been so helpful, professional and highly responsive.

Adam at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers made the difficult and lengthy process

Adam at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers made the difficult and lengthy process of applying for a 820 partnership visa, smooth and easy to navigate. His knowledge and expertise was incredibly helpful, and provided reassurance and calm in a stressful situation, with a huge document load and evidence to compile. He also ensured that the 801 visa and permanent residency came through straight after the 820 was granted – which I wasn’t aware was possible and wouldn’t have been able to achieve had I gone it alone. His dedication and clear communication throughout was second to none. I cannot thank and recommend Visa & Citizenship Lawyers enough.

As a foreigner, immigration in Australia can be a complex thing. Overnight changes, small writing, changing governments,

As a foreigner, immigration in Australia can be a complex thing. Overnight changes, small writing, changing governments, 457,186,187 etc. We, a Dutch family of four, reached out to Adam and his team for Permanent Residency. Visa & Citizenship Lawyers excelled in thoroughness and diligence, which in our eyes resulted in a flawless process and a granted PR. We’ve already recommended Visa & Citizenship Lawyers to numerous friends and they experience the same.

Thank you so much, Nick.

We couldn’t imagine doing our whole migration process for my spouse without the professional and efficient handling of our case by the team at

We couldn’t imagine doing our whole migration process for my spouse without the professional and efficient handling of our case by the team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers. Their attention to detail and customer service puts you at ease and makes the whole red tape easy to handle. We highly recommend anyone entertaining the idea of initiating a migration process here or outside Australia. Overall, fantastic. Thank you guys. All the best, Otto & Luca

AS a UK lawyer applying for permanent residency in AUS I valued

AS a UK lawyer applying for permanent residency in AUS I valued Adam’s knowledge on all matters of immigration law and his efficient working practices that allowed all information to be uploaded electronically. Trying to navigate the system without his advice and support would have been daunting.

The team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers take care of our sponsorship, nomination and visa applications and have assisted us over the years with

The team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers take care of our sponsorship, nomination and visa applications and have assisted us over the years with securing a number of our hairdressing staff on 457 and 482 visas. We highly recommend their services for immigration matters.

Adam is a lifesaver. He guides my clients for AAT tribunal matters with visa refusals; such as student visa refusals, partner visa refusals,

Adam is a lifesaver. He guides my clients for AAT tribunal matters with visa refusals; such as student visa refusals, partner visa refusals, business visa and sponsorship refusals. An absolute professional and highly recomended if you need visa help.

I truly believe I was lucky to find Adam and just in time! if only I had know about the company the first time around, after being issued a schedule

I truly believe I was lucky to find Adam and just in time! if only I had know about the company the first time around, after being issued a schedule 3 and nearly loosing Australia as my home, Adam managed to turn it all around. extremely professional and available at any appointment time that suited me. thank you so much!

I recently received my Subclass 186 grant letter and I wanted to share my positive experience with the team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers.

I recently received my Subclass 186 grant letter and I wanted to share my positive experience with the team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers. They were a tremendous help with my urgent and complex case, providing professional and reliable immigration services. I HIGHLY recommend Visa & Citizenship Lawyers to anyone seeking immigration assistance. Thank you Aadidev and the team for all your hard work and dedication in helping me obtain my visa grant letter.

My visa was not a straight forward job by any means but from our first meeting with Adam, he and his team dealt with all obstacles

My visa was not a straight forward job by any means but from our first meeting with Adam, he and his team dealt with all obstacles professionally and expediently. Their attention to detail led to my Permenant Residents visa being granted within 9 months. Exceptional service! J and P

Thank you so very much. An amazing result for me and my partner. I have

Thank you so very much. An amazing result for me and my partner. I have been working closely with Visa & Citizenship Lawyers to achieve this Visa outcome for nearly 3 years. It has been such a great relief knowing that I have been supported and assisted by the team during this process. They are a very friendly, supportive and close-knit team.

This outcome would not have been possible without their invaluable assistance. Thank you so very much.

I cannot express my gratitude enough 

I cannot express my gratitude enough to the team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers for their great service in helping me obtain my Australian citizenship. Their expertise and attention to detail were evident in every step of my application, and their communication throughout the process was second to none. They were always available to answer my questions and provide updates on my application’s progress. The team’s knowledge of the immigration laws and procedures ensured that my application was processed smoothly and efficiently, and I am thrilled to say that my application was approved. I am now a proud Australian citizen, and I have the team at Visa & Citizenship Lawyers to thank for making this dream a reality. I highly recommend their services to anyone who needs assistance with their visa or citizenship application. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication to their clients are unmatched. Thank you, Visa & Citizenship Lawyers, for everything!

I received news that no-one wants to

I received news that no-one wants to hear: that my father was dying in the UK. In Australia, due to our locked borders, I couldn’t travel back. The hurdles to organise the exemption to travel were too much for me to bear with all the other stress of the news of my father’s condition.

Visa & Citizenship Lawyers took all that away. They helped me with a detailed consultation and then assisted with the paperwork. I got my exemption to travel first time very efficiently.

I’m eternally grateful to them. I’m now in the UK and looking after my father, spending the time with him in his last days, time I was afraid I wouldn’t have. I am eternally grateful to Visa & Citizenship Lawyers and would highly recommend them to anyone in a similar situation to mine.

If you have no idea on what to do with

If you have no idea on what to do with your Visa issue, I advice you to get in touch with Visa & Citizenship Lawyers. They are professional, They are so helpful and quick to respond to your questions. Thank you very much Adam and Team for helping me put a smile on my face and helping me get a favorable outcome of my Visa application.

You May Also Be Interested In

Media: ‘you can’t separate a mother from her child’: woman facing deportation as australian daughter treated for rare genetic condition.

MEDIA: Gay Indonesian couple disheartened after three Australian visas denied

Expanded pathways to permanent residence

Ask our team.

* Indicates required field

24 Buckingham Street  Surry Hills NSW 2010

(02) 9098 6999

International:

+61 2 9098 6999

[email protected]

The information provided in these pages is general in nature and should not be relied upon in place of legal advice based on your own circumstances. Liability Limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation. Privacy Policy .

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

We’re here to help you achieve your dreams, and build a new and exciting life down under!

Bridging visas – not eligible for waiver of travel exemption

Since the announcement by the government that certain visa holders are now eligible to travel to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption, there has been a lot of confusion surrounding which visas this applies to. 

It is important to note that only specified substantive visa holders are eligible.  This means that if you are currently on a Bridging visa, you will not be eligible to travel to Australia without an exemption, as bridging visas are not substantive visas. If you have applied for a visa but it has not yet been granted, you are also not an eligible visa holder.

New arrangements for eligible visa holders

From 15 December 2021, fully vaccinated eligible visa holders can travel to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption. This includes eligible visa holders in Australia seeking to depart and return. 

To be considered an eligible visa holder you  must  hold one of the following visas.

This is in addition to the exemptions outlined on:  Travel restrictions and exemptions . 

Visa enquiries

Ready to get started? Contact First Class Migration today to begin your visa application process with the support of experts who truly care about your future in Australia.

Get the latest migration news to your inbox

First Class Migration Newsletter

7/ 8-10 Waratah Street Mona Vale NSW 2103 Australia

© Copyright 2023 - 2021Website Designed & Built by Birdcage Solutions | All Rights Reserved | First Class Migration Australia

Travel restrictions relaxed for bridging visa holders

Wednesday 23 February 2022

From 21 February 2022, all fully vaccinated visa holders will be able to travel to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption. This includes visas such as Bridging, Visitor and any other visa types that allow travel to Australia, but which were not included on the list of eligible visas which allowed travel from 15 December 2021.

If you are fully vaccinated and currently hold or will hold a Bridging Visa A, you simply need to apply for a  Bridging Visa B  (cost $160) before you travel. You do not need to also hold a travel exemption.

Any unvaccinated visa holders will still be required to hold a valid travel exemption.

Contact SUPRA Legal Service for help with visas and other legal issues.

Keep up-to-date with our latest campaigns, activities and advice!

Recent news

• SUPRA President Weihong Liang supports the Usyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Are you being exploited at work?
• 2024 SUPRA Annual General Meeting

News categories

News archives, read grad post.

Stay in touch with us

• Mar 15, 2022

Human Rights for Bridging Visa Holders ignored and excluded in COVID-19 Response

We all know someone who has been impacted by COVID-19 and can understand how devastating its effects have been, extending well-beyond the pandemic’s peak. Vulnerable groups, such as bridging visa holders, have suffered from disproportional treatment by the Government in their response to COVID-19. Some of the issues raised include the lack of social security services provided to bridging visa holders who have lost jobs or struggle due to reduced working hours, as well as the growing confusion around granting travel exemptions.

What are bridging visas?

Bridging visas are a class of temporary visas under s 37 of the Migration Act 1958 (Cth) and are granted to people who meet a specific set of criteria. This can involve people who are applying for a longer term visa, appealing a decision regarding their visa or making arrangements to leave Australia. Bridging visas A and B are both temporary visas that allow people to lawfully live in Australia after their substantive visa has expired and are enforced with the conditions of a person’s previous visa. The primary difference between the two is that Bridging Visa B holders are normally able to travel outside of Australia and return, whereas Bridging Visa A does a person to return to Australia once they leave the country.

A solution? Extend Job Keeper and Job Seeker to Bridging Visa holders

Article 9 of the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) recognises the right of everyone to social security, however, Centrelink is only available to Australian citizens and permanent residents.

Many people have lost their jobs due to COVID and those in casual work may be overlooked by employers , due to their residency status. All of these factors have pushed some bridging visa holders to a state of destitute, in which they are squatting and relying on charities like the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) to provide them food. Chief Executive of the ASRC, Kon Karapandagiotidis, explained how difficult it had been to help refugee families during the peak of the pandemic, stating that the charity is “ at breaking point ”.

Therefore, it is imperative that the Australian government does not rely on charities to provide temporary visa holders with support.

Canada’s approach to disaster payments, such as the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) contrasts that of Australia. This payment of $2000 over four weeks was available to any person who was over the age of 15 and resided in Canada, which meant that those who lived and had a home in Canada could access CERB. Canada continues to support working residents through Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit in a fair manner that is not restricted solely to citizens or permanent residents.

To tackle this problem, Job Keeper and Job Seeker can be extended to bridging visa holders who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, similarly to Canada’s approach to CERB. These can be in the form of shortened working hours or job loss. Additionally, nearly 315 000 people are on bridging visas A, B and C in Australia, which shows the need for the Government to encourage progression in visa processing. A great solution is prioritising bridging visa holder applications for permanent residency so they can access Centrelink and support themselves.

Another solution? A clear policy for travel exemptions and temporarily waiving BVB applications for BVA holders

There is confusion surrounding what constitutes compassionate and compelling grounds to travel. One might think that attending a relative’s funeral or caring for a relative during the pandemic would warrant a travel exemption, but it can be shown from cases like Ash Fadian that such reasons may still be refused. She was on her Bridging Visa B and wanted to attend her brother-in-law’s funeral in the UK during the pandemic, but was met with six refusals for a travel exemption for compassionate reasons.

Currently, there is no explicit legislation regarding travel exemptions, however the Outward Travel Restrictions Operation Directive attempts to describe the circumstances under which a travel exemption may be granted. Cases like Ash Fadian have shown that there must be a solid policy in place to clarify the meaning of compassionate grounds. A prime solution to this can be to introduce a clear definition or set of criteria in the Biosecurity (Entry Requirements—Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential) Determination 2022 , which is a legislative instrument that provides information about conferring travel exemptions.

There is also an automatic exemptions policy in Australia that allows, for example, fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents to travel from and return to without a travel exemption. Bridging visa B holders and several other temporary visa holders like the Business Innovation and Investment visa are now able to travel to other countries and return to Australia, taken that they are fully vaccinated and were previously allowed travel. However, the policies for BVA holders have not changed since the onset of the pandemic. These bridging visa holders must apply for a BVB 30 days before travel , which can involve a lengthy process, as their cases must be heard by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal before a person leaves the country. A response to this issue can involve temporarily waiving the application for a BVB when leaving for compassionate reasons, considering they return to Australia within a three-month timeframe and each person meets the correct vaccination and isolation procedures.

Article 12 (2) and (4) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) convey every person’s right to leave a country and not to be arbitrarily barred from entry. If a BVA holder urgently needs to leave the country for reasons such as attending a funeral or supporting a sick relative, why should they have to go through such a long-winded process when this precious time can be spent with their loved ones?

Although slow progress is being made, there is still reform required to align the circumstances of Bridging Visa holders with other temporary visa holders. Being told by the Australian government that it was “time to go home” after having spent years in Australia, contributing to its economy and paying taxes is distressing to hear during these trying times. Every person, regardless of immigration status, is at risk of contracting the virus and the limbo regarding travel exemptions has gone too long.

In relation to these issues, the Rights Resource Network SA have provided a submission to the Senate Standing Committee on COVID-19 in February 2022, which can be read here.

Fariza Ali is a final year Law Student at UniSA and a Rights Resource Network SA volunteer with a passion for social justice and migration law.

Recent Posts

Inquiry into Human Rights Act for SA! We did it! Now get busy

UNDRIP: A Broken Promise?

Over 150 organisations and individuals say it’s time for a Human Rights Law for SA

• Forum Listing
• Marketplace
• Advanced Search
• Living in Australia
• Visas and immigration

Travel permission on bridging visa C (BVC)

• Add to quote

Hi, I am on bridging visa C for processing partner visa 820 and I need to leave australia for finishing my Phd. However it's mentioned on immigration site that BVC can't apply BVB to travel. I applied for BVB because the option was on my profile but I'm not sure if I will be granted or not. I was wondering what's any other option for me now? for example should I apply for a tourist visa in Australia or leave Australia without getting BVB. Can you suggest me anything, please? Thank you  

You probably need to ask for special permission. I have read this: Subclass 030 or the Bridging visa C does not come with any travel rights, nor is an applicant allowed to apply for a subclass 020 or the Bridging visa B to avail travelling rights. A Bridging visa C holder can not leave Australia on this visa; in case a necessity arises, the applicant will be required to contact the Department for the same.  

JandE said: You probably need to ask for special permission. I have read this: Subclass 030 or the Bridging visa C does not come with any travel rights, nor is an applicant allowed to apply for a subclass 020 or the Bridging visa B to avail travelling rights. A Bridging visa C holder can not leave Australia on this visa; in case a necessity arises, the applicant will be required to contact the Department for the same. Click to expand...

I recommend you get some professional advice to work out the best course of action in your circumstances.  

And where are you planning to go?  

As far as I know, to leave Australia for a specific purpose related to work or study, there is no need to obtain another type of visa. But I could be wrong. You really should contact a consultant on these issues. I just remember that when my friend moved from Australia, he needed to get some documents, but it wasn't a visa. He was more worried about who would transport his things. Found a good company in the end; Get More Information here if you're interested. If you want, I can give you my friend's contacts and ask him. Good luck! I hope you will succeed.  

daseder said: As far as I know, to leave Australia for a specific purpose related to work or study, there is no need to obtain another type of visa. Click to expand...

Hi, I was in same situation about 2 years ago. I was on BridgingvisaC for partner visa and my family was critical situation at the moment. Then, I asked to Immigration if it‘s possible to leave Australia for while to visit my family. However, they told me it’s not possible to leave because I had BVC even if I have on serious situation. I also asked professional support, however there was no other options.. then, my family had gone and I tried to attend to funeral for him, but I couldn’t. So I know it’a pretty frustrating for you..but only thing you can do is you have to wait till your visa is ready.  

• ?            
• 428.9K posts
• 84.2K members

Top Contributors this Month

• SYDNEY, NSW
• MELBOURNE, VIC
• HOBART, TAS
• BRISBANE, QLD
• ADELAIDE, SA
• CANBERRA, ACT

Trapped in Australia: Hundreds of thousands on bridging visas still unable to travel freely overseas

'All I want to do is go home and give my family a hug, it's not a lot to ask'

'The government has made us feel like second class citizens'

• immigration
• federal politics
• Coronavirus

Send your stories to [email protected]

Property News: Couple strike it rich after finding 400-year-old coins hidden under their kitchen floor.

Top Stories

Judge rejects mercy killing claims in sentence for family violence murder

TODAY IN HISTORY: 'Not guilty' verdict triggers storm of violence

How a struggling Sydney family got the keys to a waterfront mansion

DV advocates call for male role models to help achieve change