If you’ve applied for a substantive visa in Australia and need to travel overseas temporarily, a Bridging Visa B Australia (Subclass 020) could be your solution. Unlike the Bridging Visa A, this visa allows international travel while keeping your ongoing visa application valid.

In this blog post, we’ll cover the Bridging Visa B requirements, application steps, cost, and the document checklist to help you apply confidently.

What is Bridging B Visa (Subclass 020)?

The Bridging B Visa (BVB) is a temporary visa that allows you to:

• Stay in Australia lawfully while your new visa application is being processed
• Leave and return to Australia within a specific travel period without affecting your pending visa application

This visa is ideal if you have important travel plans (e.g., family emergency, work travel, etc.) and don’t want to risk invalidating your current application. To know the bridging visa b fees read below.

Bridging Visa B Requirements

To apply for a Bridging B Visa, you must:

• Already hold a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or another eligible bridging visa
• Have a pending substantive visa application submitted while you were in Australia
• Provide valid reasons for needing to travel outside Australia
• Be physically in Australia at the time of application and grant

Bridging Visa B Document Checklist

Ensure you have the following documents when applying for a Bridging Visa B Australia:

• Passport bio page copy
• Visa Grant Notice of your current BVA
• Evidence of your pending substantive visa application
• Detailed travel itinerary or evidence of reasons for overseas travel
• Statutory declarations or supporting letters (if applicable)
• Form 1006 (if not applying online)

Apply For Bridging Visa B Online – Step-by-Step Guide

If you want to know how can i apply for bridging visa b here are step by step guide how to apply for bridging visa b:

• Go to https://online.immi.gov.au to log in to your ImmiAccount.
• Move to the “New Application” tab in ImmiAccount and select Bridging B Visa (Subclass 020).
• Fill in all the necessary parts of the bridging visa b application form.
• Add all required documents provided in the checklist.
• Pay the fee for submitting the application.
• Send your payment and wait for the order to be accepted for bridging visa b application.

Note: It is best to apply bridging visa b at least 2–4 weeks before your travel date.

Bridging Visa B Processing Time

Understanding the Bridging Visa B processing time is crucial for individuals planning to travel overseas while holding a bridging visa in Australia. A Bridging B Visa (BVB) allows temporary travel outside Australia and re-entry while maintaining lawful status during the processing of a substantive visa.

Typical Bridging Visa B processing time can vary, depending on individual circumstances and application volumes. On average, it may take 1 to 2 weeks, but delays can occur.

Key points to remember:

• Apply at least 2–4 weeks before intended travel to reduce bridging visa b processing time.
• Ensure all documents are submitted accurately to avoid delays.
• Processing time may be shorter for urgent travel with sufficient evidence.
• You cannot leave Australia while your BVB is pending without risking your visa status.

Always monitor the Department of Home Affairs website for updates on Bridging Visa B processing time to plan travel accordingly. Applying early helps reduce uncertainty and ensures compliance with immigration laws.

Bridging Visa B Cost (2025)

The Bridging Visa B cost is an important consideration for those temporarily leaving Australia while awaiting a visa decision. This visa allows lawful re-entry into Australia and ensures your visa application process continues smoothly.

• The fees for bridging visa b​ is AUD 165 in 2025 for each person.

• It is ideal for travelers with urgent or planned trips overseas.

• Ensure your visa is granted before leaving Australia to avoid complications.

• Processing times may vary, so apply early.

Understanding the Bridging Visa B cost helps avoid unnecessary delays or legal issues during your visa transition period.

To confirm bridging visa b cost the mentioned amount, make sure to see the current Home Affairs website for the latest bridging visa b fees.

Travel Rights and Validity

After issuance of a Bridging B Visa, you start to have:

• A time window (usually of 3 months) is provided by which you can leave and return to Australia.
• Legally remain in the country while you wait for your substantive visa to be issued.
• You can continue working and studying (if you previously held a stamps-in-passport visa).

If you come back after the travel period, your BVB will expire and you’ll need to process a new visa application.

Bridging B Visa FAQs

1. Can I ask for an extension of my Bridging B Visa?
   No, the travel period fixed on the visa cannot be changed after it has been issued. If your situation changes, you need to submit a new BVB.
2. What will happen if I try to take a BVA without having a BVB?
   When you leave Australia, your BVA will cease and you may have to apply again for another visa to re-enter.
3. How soon should I apply for a BVB before my trip?

Try to allow about 3–4 weeks ahead of your travel date so you get enough time for processing.

Final Thoughts

A Bridging B Visa (Subclass 020) is essential for anyone who needs to travel internationally while waiting for their new Australian visa to be granted. It ensures that your existing application remains valid and gives you peace of mind during your journey.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with the Bridging B Visa document checklist, Kritin Global is here to guide you through every step.

Need expert help with your Bridging Visa B application? Contact Kritin Global today!