If you are applying for a substantive visa in Australia but your current visa has expired or is about to expire, you may need a bridging visa to stay lawfully in the country while your application is processed. One such important visa is the Bridging Visa C (Subclass 030), often called Bridging Visa C or BVC.

This guide explains what Bridging Visa C is, its conditions, eligibility, recent updates, and how to apply — helping you navigate this important stage safely and lawfully.

Learn more about Bridging Visas (link page) in general and how they help you remain lawful in Australia.

What Is a Bridging Visa C?

A Bridging Visa C (BVC) is granted when you have applied for another substantive visa but do not currently hold a valid visa or your previous visa has been cancelled or expired. This visa allows you to remain lawfully in Australia while your new visa application is being processed.

Unlike some other bridging visas, Bridging Visa C generally does not allow outbound travel, meaning if you leave Australia, the BVC usually ceases, and you may lose your lawful status.

Who Is Eligible for a Bridging Visa C?

You may be eligible for a BVC if:

• You have lodged a valid substantive visa application while being in Australia.
• At the time of application, you either do not hold a valid visa or your last visa has been cancelled or expired.
• You do not hold another bridging visa (such as BVA or BVB) that would be more appropriate in your situation.
  

Additional eligibility considerations:

• You must be physically in Australia when you apply and when the BVC is granted.
• You must meet any character requirements as part of your substantive visa application.
• In some cases, if you applied for judicial review of a visa refusal, you may still be granted a BVC while the review is pending.

For a broader overview of all bridging visa types and eligibility requirements, check our Bridging Visa guide. (link bv page – visa services)

Key Conditions of Bridging Visa C

Holding a BVC comes with important restrictions and obligations:

• No Automatic Work Rights: By default, BVC does not grant work rights. You may apply for work permission if you can demonstrate significant financial hardship or another compelling reason.
• No Travel Rights: BVC generally does not permit leaving and re-entering Australia. Exiting the country will usually cancel your visa.
• Must Remain in Australia: You are required to stay in Australia for the duration of your BVC.
• Comply With Visa Conditions: Follow any conditions listed on your BVC grant notice, including notifying the Department of Home Affairs of your residential address changes.
• Validity Tied to Substantive Visa Decision: BVC usually remains valid until your substantive visa is decided, withdrawn, or refused.
  

Fees for Bridging Visa C

Most BVC applications are free of cost when granted in connection with a substantive onshore application. Always verify costs via the Department of Home Affairs’ official website before applying.

Work Rights on Bridging Visa C

While BVC normally has no work rights, you can request permission to work via ImmiAccount if you demonstrate financial hardship. Approval is discretionary and bound by terms specified in your BVC grant notice.

How to Apply for Bridging Visa C

Step 1: Assess Your Situation

Confirm you have lodged (or are lodging) a substantive visa application. Ensure you are in Australia at the time of applying and at grant.

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

• Identity documents (passport)
• Proof of your substantive visa application
• Character check documents, if required
• Evidence of financial hardship if applying for work rights
  

Step 3: Lodge Your Application

Apply online via ImmiAccount (preferred) using Form 1005. Paper applications are possible but slower.

Step 4: Monitor Status

Keep checking your ImmiAccount for updates and provide additional information promptly if requested.

Step 5: Respond to Outcomes

If your BVC is granted, comply with all conditions. If refused, consult a registered migration agent immediately to avoid becoming unlawful.

Important Tips for Bridging Visa C Holders

• Do Not Travel Overseas: Leaving Australia will likely cancel your BVC.
• Avoid Working Without Permission: Apply for work rights if needed. Illegal work can affect future visa options.
• Keep Details Updated: Notify the Department of Home Affairs of any address changes.
• Seek Professional Advice: Complex cases benefit from guidance by an experienced migration agent.

Final Thoughts

The Bridging Visa C (Subclass 030) is a crucial visa for individuals in Australia who do not currently hold a valid visa but have lodged a new substantive application. It allows you to stay lawfully in Australia, though with strict limitations on travel and work.

Careful planning and compliance with visa conditions are essential to avoid becoming unlawful or jeopardizing future visa opportunities.

At Kritin Global, we provide expert guidance, document preparation, and step-by-step support to ensure your Bridging Visa C application is handled efficiently. For details on all Bridging Visa options and which one is right for you, see our general Bridging Visa page.

Whether you need help applying for work rights, maintaining lawful status, or understanding your obligations, we guide you through the process every step of the way.

Contact Kritin Global (link page) today for professional Bridging Visa advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I travel outside Australia on a Bridging Visa C (030)?
   No, travel is not permitted. Leaving Australia will cause your BVC to cease, and you may lose your lawful status.
2. Can I work while holding a Bridging Visa C?
   Not automatically. You must apply for work rights and show financial hardship or compelling reasons.
3. Does applying for Bridging Visa C cost money?
   In most cases, there is no visa application charge for BVC when applying onshore in connection with a valid visa application.
4. How long does Bridging Visa C remain valid?
   It remains valid until your substantive visa application is decided, or you withdraw or have the application refused.
5. Can I hold a BVC and a BVA/BVB at the same time?
   No, BVC is granted when you do not hold another bridging visa that would be more appropriate. BVB or BVA would apply in other scenarios.