Travelling overseas while your visa application is still under review can be a complex situation. In such instances, Bridging Visa B (BVB) provides a lawful way to leave Australia and return without disrupting your ongoing application. It is designed for applicants who hold a valid bridging visa and need to travel temporarily for family, work or any other reasons.
To access this Bridging Visa B, we’ll explain its eligibility criteria, processing time and re-entry rules.
What Is a Bridging Visa B?
A Bridging Visa B (often called BVB Visa) is a temporary visa you receive while waiting for a decision on a substantive visa application. Its main purpose is to let you leave the nation and then come back during a specific travel period, while your substantive visa application remains active.
It serves as a solution between submitting your substantive application (or asking for a review), staying legally while you wait, and needing to travel for reasons like family, business, or urgent matters. If your trip is time-sensitive, you can request a Bridging Visa B urgent assessment by providing sufficient evidence for your travel necessity.
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Eligibility Criteria for a Bridging Visa B
In order to apply bridging visa B online, the applicants should meet some stringent requirements which must establish that they are required to travel temporarily. Such requirements also make sure that the substantive visa application being carried out is still valid in the process.
1. Current visa status
You need to already have a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or any other valid bridging visa when seeking a BVB. This need is in place to make sure that you now have a lawful status and that your substantive visa application has not been discontinued. If your application for a Bridging Visa B does not meet the conditions, the Department of Home Affairs may not be able to grant travel permission.
2. Ongoing visa process
The only ones who qualify to receive a BVB are those applicants with a pending substantive visa application and those with a pending judicial or merits review. A BVB is not an option in the event that your primary visa is already finalised or even when no legitimate application is pending. If your BVB refused notice is issued, you have to stay in the country until a new valid visa is granted.
3. Application location
The application form for BVB needs to be submitted during your stay in the country. You can not claim it in foreign lands. The rule helps eliminate instances where an applicant departs the country without legal permission and then seeks to get back into the country without the required approval.
4. Genuine reason for travel
You must give a valid and authentic reason as to why you are leaving temporarily. Acceptable reasons are taking care of a family emergency, meeting professional commitments like work conferences or business meetings, or medical treatment. When applying for BVB, including detailed supporting documents strengthens your case. The Department of Home Affairs can review evidence like travel itineraries, letters by employers, or medical records to confirm the claim.
5. Intention to return
The applicants should show a strong intention to return within the time of the BVB travel validity. Bookings of flight returns may demonstrate this, promises to work or study or any other distinct indication that the travel is temporary in nature. Applicants can also apply for Bridging Visa B form assistance through migration agents to ensure all documentation is accurate.
6. Compliance History
You should have been able to uphold the terms and conditions of your current or past visa. Any breach of Bridging B visa conditions may affect your eligibility and delay your approval.
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Bridging Visa B Processing Times
The Department of Home Affairs does not publish a fixed processing time for BVB applications. Its time is determined by the nature of your case and the extent of your paperwork when you submit. Most agents note that the bridging B visa processing time is usually one to two weeks, but urgent or complex cases might take longer.
Duration, Conditions, and Re-entry Rules
BVB is given when you are granted to leave the country and at the same time be in a lawful status, as long as your substantive visa application is still pending. The Bridging B Visa cost is approximately AUD 190, set by the Department of Home Affairs.
However, certain conditions are attached to this visa that you need to observe when you apply bridging b visa.
1. Travel validity period
The Bridging Visa B is granted for a definite period of travel which matches your planned trip. Depending on the reason for travel and the judgment of the Department, the period may take a few weeks or months. You should be back before the end of the approved period of travelling.
After this time elapses, your travel permission will automatically expire. Applicants can track progress using the bridging visa B application form reference number online.
2. Maintaining lawful status
The substantive visa application will be deemed withdrawn in case you leave the country without a valid BVB, or in case you re-enter after it has expired. This implies that you will not be allowed to continue staying under that application and you might need to seek another visa. To avoid this, it is important to apply BVB well before your travel dates.
3. Work and study conditions
If your Bridging Visa A allows you to work, you would get an equivalent right under the BVB. In case it restricts work or study, the restrictions will be maintained, as well. All in all, these Bridging Visa B work rights are automatically carried over from your previous visa.
4. Re-entry verification
On coming back to the country, you are required to show your passport and the visa grant notice to the border officers. They can verify your return date in order to ensure that it does not exceed the stipulated time. It is advisable to have both copies of your visa approval, both printed and electronic, so that you can verify on your arrival at the airport.
Also Read: Study In Australia With a Student Visa 500: Conditions & Work Rights
Final Thoughts
BVB offers flexibility to applicants who need temporary travel, but maintain their visa application. Knowing the rules of eligibility, bridging visa B fees and travel conditions can help you prevent facing complications in further steps. Travelling early and following all the requirements can help you be served properly and safely on your way back and preserve your lawful status.
Furthermore, consulting with an experienced immigration agent Perth WA ensures compliance and minimises the risk of errors during your visa process.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a Bridging Visa B while I am outside the country?
At the time of filing the BVB form, you need to be present in the country. The Department of Home Affairs does not accept applications that are made abroad.
2. What is the average process time of a Bridging Visa B?
The processing fee of the BVB is priced at 190 visa Australia, and the application process may differ under certain situations and depending on the volume of applications. For a fresh application, it is usually one to two weeks of making the decisions, though more complicated scenarios may take time.
3. What will happen if I leave Australia without a Bridging Visa B?
Departure without a valid BVB normally makes your pending substantive visa application to be deemed as having been withdrawn. The next thing you would have to do would be to apply overseas to get a new visa to come back with the help of a visa consultant Perth.
4. Can I extend the duration of my Bridging Visa B?
The duration of travel on a BVB is not extendable. If your travel plans change or are delayed in travelling, you should apply for another BVB before the visa expires.
5. Can I work or study on a Bridging Visa B?
Yes, but under the same terms as your existing bridging visa or pending substantive visa. The BVB does not grant any new work or study rights. To get more detailed information, contact a migration expert.