Bridging Visa B (020)

What this visa lets you do

You can stay lawfully in Australia while your substantive visa application is being decided. If you hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA) while your substantive visa is being processed, you can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to travel overseas and return to Australia during a limited travel period, but you must be granted the BVB before you leave. You may also be allowed to work in Australia if your BVB includes work rights.

• Stay: Temporary you remain lawful in Australia while your substantive visa application is being decided (or while related judicial review proceedings continue).

• Cost: AUD 190.00

Who can apply / key eligibility rules

You must:

• Be in Australia when you apply.

• Be the holder of a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or a Bridging Visa B (BVB) at the time you apply.

• Have applied in Australia for a substantive visa that can be granted while you are in Australia.

• If you meet all eligibility requirements, be in Australia when the visa is granted.

How to apply (simple steps)

1. Check you meet the eligibility rules above.

2. Gather required documents before you apply. This should include proof of identity (your passport or travel document), evidence that you hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA), and confirmation that you have lodged a substantive visa application (for example an Immi Account receipt or reference number). If you need to travel for a specific reason, add supporting documents such as medical certificates, letters from employers, or family emergency evidence. Also include any other identity or relationship documents relevant to your case and provide certified English translations for any documents not in English. Keep clear copies to upload with your online application.

3. Wait for the BVB to be granted before you leave Australia.

4. If the BVB is granted, note the travel period and return to Australia before it ends.

Note: From 1 August 2022, paper or in-person applications for Bridging visas A, B or C are not accepted you must apply online.

Important notes and cautions

• The BVB gives a specific travel period only. It is not an open travel permit   you must return before the travel period ends.

• If you leave Australia without a BVB, or you leave after the travel period ends, you may not be allowed to return, and your substantive visa application could be affected.