Bridging & Return Visas
Comprehensive guide to Australian bridging visas and resident return visas for maintaining your lawful status in Australia.
Bridging & Return Visa Options
- Bridging Visas
- Bridging Visa A (010)
- Bridging Visa B (020)
- Bridging Visa C (030)
- Bridging Visa E (050/051)
- Return Visas
- Resident Return (155/157)
About Bridging & Return Visas
Bridging visas and resident return visas are essential for maintaining lawful status in Australia. Bridging visas allow you to remain in Australia while waiting for a decision on a substantive visa application, while resident return visas enable permanent residents to re-enter Australia after traveling overseas.
Understanding the different types of bridging visas and their conditions is crucial for maintaining your legal status and avoiding unlawful presence in Australia. Our experienced migration agents can help you navigate these complex visa pathways.
Bridging Visa A (010)
Automatically granted when you apply for a substantive visa onshore
- • Automatically granted on application
- • Allows you to stay in Australia
- • Work rights depend on previous visa
- • Cannot travel outside Australia
Bridging Visa B (020)
Allows travel outside Australia while on a bridging visa
- • Must apply before leaving Australia
- • Allows re-entry to Australia
- • Valid for specific travel period
- • Work rights same as Bridging Visa A
Bridging Visa C (030)
For applicants who apply after their previous visa expires
- • No work rights automatically
- • Must apply for work permission
- • Cannot travel outside Australia
- • Limited conditions
Bridging Visa E (050/051)
For unlawful non-citizens or those with expired visas
- • Emergency situations only
- • Very limited conditions
- • Usually no work rights
- • Time-limited validity
Resident Return Visa (155/157)
Allows permanent residents to return to Australia after traveling overseas
Subclass 155 (5 years)
- • For permanent residents
- • Valid for 5 years
- • Multiple entries allowed
- • Must meet residence requirements
Subclass 157 (3 months)
- • For permanent residents
- • Valid for 3 months
- • Single entry
- • If don't meet 155 requirements
Key Information
Bridging Visa Conditions
- • Automatically granted in most cases
- • Conditions vary by visa type
- • Work rights depend on previous visa
- • Must maintain valid health insurance
- • Cannot travel (except Bridging Visa B)
Resident Return Visa Requirements
- • Must be a permanent resident
- • Meet residence requirements (for 155)
- • Strong ties to Australia
- • Valid passport
- • Character requirements
Processing Times
- • Bridging visas: Usually automatic
- • Bridging Visa B: 1-2 weeks
- • Resident Return Visa: 1-3 months
- • Varies by individual circumstances
Important Considerations
- • Maintain lawful status at all times
- • Understand your visa conditions
- • Apply for travel permission if needed
- • Keep documents up to date
- • Seek professional advice early
Why Choose Bansal Immigration for Bridging & Return Visas?
Expert Guidance
Our registered migration agents understand the complexities of bridging visas and can help you maintain lawful status
Timely Assistance
We help you navigate urgent situations and ensure you don't breach visa conditions
Status Protection
We help protect your lawful status and prevent unlawful presence in Australia
Ongoing Support
Comprehensive support throughout your visa journey, from bridging visas to permanent residency
Need Help with Bridging or Return Visas?
Our experienced migration agents can help you understand your options, maintain lawful status, and navigate the bridging visa and resident return visa processes. Contact us for expert guidance.