Visa category
Bridging visas FAQs
Bridging visas frequently asked questions for Australian immigration, with checked and reviewed dates.
Questions
16 published FAQs in this category.
Can a bridging visa come back into effect after another visa ends?
Sometimes. A bridging visa can come back into effect if it only stopped being in effect because another visa came into effect and the bridging visa period has not ended.
Can a bridging visa refusal or cancellation be reviewed?
Some bridging visa refusal or cancellation decisions can be reviewed, but not every decision has the same review pathway.
Can family members be included in a bridging visa application?
Sometimes. Family members may be able to combine their bridging visa applications, but each person usually still needs to meet the criteria for the bridging visa.
Can I get work rights on a bridging visa because I need to work?
Sometimes. Some Bridging A, Bridging C and Bridging E holders may be able to apply for another bridging visa without a work restriction if they meet the compelling need to work criteria.
Can I travel outside Australia on a bridging visa?
Usually no, unless you hold a bridging visa that includes a travel facility, such as a Bridging B visa during its travel period.
Can section 48 or a no further stay rule stop me applying for a bridging visa?
Usually no. Section 48 and no further stay rules do not usually stop you from making a valid bridging visa application, because a bridging visa is not a substantive visa.
Do I need a new bridging visa if I apply for judicial review?
Usually yes. If you apply for judicial review, a bridging visa connected to your earlier visa application does not automatically carry over.
How can I apply for a bridging visa?
There are three broad ways: with some visa applications, by lodging a separate bridging visa form, or in limited cases where the rules treat a bridging visa application as already made.
Is a bridging visa a substantive visa?
No. A bridging visa is not a substantive visa, even though it is still a visa.
What are the main types of bridging visas?
The main bridging visa types are Bridging A, B, C, D, E, F and R. Each type is used for different immigration situations.
What does finally determined mean for a bridging visa?
Finally determined generally means the visa application has reached an endpoint under the migration rules, such as a grant, a refusal with no review pathway left, or completion of merits review.
What happens if a child is born in Australia while a parent holds or has applied for a bridging visa?
It depends on whether the parent holds a bridging visa or has a pending visa application when the child is born.
What happens to my bridging visa if I withdraw my visa or review application?
Withdrawing the related visa or review application can cause the bridging visa to cease after a set period. The timing depends on the type of withdrawal and when the bridging visa was granted.
What is a bridging visa for?
A bridging visa is usually a temporary visa that helps a person stay lawfully in Australia while another immigration matter is being processed or resolved.
What makes a bridging visa application valid?
A bridging visa application must meet the application requirements for that bridging visa class before Home Affairs can consider granting or refusing it.
When does a bridging visa come into effect and cease?
A bridging visa can be held before it is in effect. It usually comes into effect when the person no longer holds another visa that keeps them lawful, and it ceases when a specified event or date occurs.