Bridging Visas are temporary visas that allow individuals to remain lawfully in Australia while their visa application is being processed, or while resolving immigration matters such as a visa refusal, cancellation, or transition between visas. These visas are crucial for maintaining lawful status when there is a gap in an individual’s visa status, ensuring they don’t face legal issues while waiting for a decision on their visa application or while sorting out their immigration status. Bridging visas come in several subclasses, each designed for different situations, such as those waiting for a visa decision, individuals who have overstayed their visa, or those whose visa has been canceled.

The eligibility criteria for a Bridging Visa depend on the subclass being applied for. In general, applicants must be in Australia when applying for a Bridging Visa. Some subclasses are granted to those who need lawful status while waiting for a visa decision (e.g., Bridging Visa A or B), while others are for those who have overstayed their visa or had it canceled, helping them stay legally in the country while resolving their situation (e.g., Bridging Visa E). Additional requirements may be set by the Department of Home Affairs depending on the specific subclass. There are several types of Bridging Visas, each catering to different needs:

1. Bridging Visa A (BVA – Subclass 010): This visa allows individuals to stay lawfully in
   Australia while they wait for their visa application to be processed. Travel outside
   Australia is generally not permitted, but individuals may apply for permission to leave if
   necessary.
2. Bridging Visa B (BVB – Subclass 020): This visa permits individuals to stay in
   Australia lawfully while waiting for a visa decision and also allows travel outside
   Australia. However, the visa holder must return before the visa expires to maintain lawful
   status.
3. Bridging Visa C (BVC – Subclass 030): Issued to individuals who do not hold a visa
   and are in Australia unlawfully but want to regularize their immigration status. This visa
   generally does not allow travel but permits lawful stay in Australia while awaiting a
   decision on a visa application.
4. Bridging Visa E (BVE – Subclass 050 and 051): This visa is for individuals who are in
   Australia unlawfully (such as over stayers) but wish to resolve their immigration status. It
   allows lawful stay while they apply for a new visa or make arrangements to depart
   Australia. Work rights may or may not be granted.

The duration of a Bridging Visa is usually temporary and depends on the specific subclass and the individual’s circumstances. In most cases, the visa lasts until a decision is made on the applicant’s main visa application or until they resolve their immigration matter. Bridging visas often come with conditions such as restrictions on travel, work, or study, which vary by subclass.

It is essential for visa holders to comply with these conditions, as non-compliance could affect future visa applications or lead to the loss of lawful status in Australia. To apply for a Bridging Visa, applicants should first determine which subclass applies to their specific situation. They must then submit an online or paper application to the Department of Home Affairs, along with the required documents, such as proof of their current immigration status. Once the visa is granted, applicants must comply with the conditions attached to their visa, which may include restrictions on work or travel.