If you’re living in Australia on a Bridging Visa A (BVA) and need to travel overseas while waiting for your substantive visa decision, a Bridging Visa B (BVB) could be the solution. This page provides all the information you need about BVB, including eligibility, duration, fees, and the application process.

What is a Bridging Visa B (BVB)?

A Bridging Visa B is a temporary visa that allows you to:

• Leave and return to Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed.
• Maintain your lawful status in Australia while holding a BVA.
• Travel for essential reasons such as family emergencies, work commitments, or personal matters.

Note: You can hold both a BVA and BVB at the same time.

For more information on Bridging Visas and their types, see our general Bridging Visa Services for details on BVA, BVB, BVC, and BVE.

Why is a Bridging Visa B Important?

Without a BVB, leaving Australia on a BVA may cancel your existing visa, potentially preventing re-entry. A BVB ensures:

• You can travel abroad and return lawfully.
• Your substantive visa application remains valid.
• You avoid complications with Australian immigration authorities.

Bridging Visa B Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a BVB, you must:

1. Hold a current Bridging visa A (BVA) or another eligible bridging visa.
2. Have a pending substantive visa application submitted while in Australia.
3. Be physically present in Australia when applying and when the visa is granted.
4. Provide a genuine, time-sensitive reason for travel.

Document Checklist for BVB

Prepare the following:

• Passport Bio Page
• Current BVA/BVB grant notice
• Evidence of your substantive visa application
• Documents supporting your travel reason (medical, work, or family)
• Completed Form 1006 (if applying on paper)

Duration and Travel Validity

• Typically valid for up to three months, depending on your situation.
• Must return to Australia before the travel period expires.
• Travel periods can be shorter or longer depending on justification.

Application Process

Step 1: Apply Online or Paper Submission

1. Log in to your ImmiAccount.
2. Complete the Bridging Visa B (Subclass 020) application.
3. Attach supporting documents.
4. Pay the application fee.
5. Monitor your ImmiAccount for updates.

Tips to Avoid Delays:

• Apply 2–4 weeks before travel.
• Ensure all documents are complete and clear.
• Provide strong evidence for travel necessity.

Processing Time

• Typically 1–7 business days, depending on peak periods and complexity.

Key Considerations

• Cannot be extended: Apply for a new BVB if you need to travel again.
• Must return before the travel validity ends to maintain lawful status.
• Ensure the passport is valid for the entire travel period.

Bridging Visa B vs Other Bridging Visas

• Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
• Provide detailed travel reasons and supporting documents.
• Regularly monitor your ImmiAccount for updates.
• Consult a migration expert if your case is complex.

Contact Kritin Global

Need help applying for a Bridging Visa B or understanding which bridging visa suits your situation?

Contact Kritin Global today for personalised guidance and expert assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for a BVB?
   You must already hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or another eligible bridging visa and have a pending substantive visa application lodged in Australia. You also need a genuine, time-sensitive reason for travel.
2. How long is a BVB valid?
   Typically, a BVB is valid for up to 3 months. The exact travel period is specified on your visa grant notice. You must return to Australia before this period expires to maintain lawful status.
3. Can I extend my BVB?
   No, a BVB cannot be extended. If you need to travel again after it expires, you must apply for a new BVB.
4. Can I include family members in my BVB application?
   No, each individual must apply separately for their own BVB.
5. What happens if my BVB is refused?
   If refused, you remain on your current BVA, but you cannot travel outside Australia. You may reapply if travel is still necessary.