Is this your situation?
You are on a bridging visa and you want to know how long it lasts. You have been on it for months or even years and you are not sure whether it will suddenly end, or whether there is a maximum period.
It depends on the type of bridging visa
Bridging Visa A (BVA) lasts until 35 days after your visa application or ART review is finally determined. If your application is still being processed or your review has not been decided, the BVA continues. Some people are on BVAs for years while waiting for complex applications (particularly partner visa and protection visa applications) to be decided. There is no maximum duration as long as the underlying application or review remains active.
Bridging Visa B (BVB) has a specific travel validity period. The visa itself lasts as long as the underlying BVA, but the travel permission has a defined window (usually 3 months, but this varies). You must return to Australia within the travel window.
Bridging Visa C (BVC) is granted to people who lodged a valid visa application but are not eligible for a BVA. It generally lasts until the application is decided. It does not allow travel outside Australia.
Bridging Visa E (BVE) is short term. It is usually granted for 3 to 6 months, sometimes shorter. It may be renewable depending on circumstances.
What happens when the bridging visa ends
When the bridging visa ceases, you must hold another visa or you become unlawful. If your application was granted, you transition to the substantive visa. If your application was refused and you did not seek review (or the review was also decided against you), the bridging visa ends and you need to depart.
The 35-day wind-down period after a final decision gives you time to arrange departure or lodge any further application you may be entitled to.
How Bullseye Consultant can help
Amanpreet Bhangoo (MARN 1573884) can check your VEVO status and tell you exactly when your bridging visa is due to expire. Call (07) 3519 7009.
FAQ
Q: Can I be on a bridging visa indefinitely?
In theory, a BVA can last for years if your visa application or ART review is still pending. There is no fixed maximum duration. However, the bridging visa ceases once the matter is finally resolved.
Q: Do bridging visa conditions change over time?
The conditions attached when the bridging visa was granted generally remain in place for the life of the visa. However, you can apply for a change of conditions (such as adding work rights) at any time.
