Key Differences Between Bridging Visa A (BVA) and Bridging Visa C (BVC) in Australia

When applying for a new visa in Australia, you might come across the term bridging visa. But what exactly is a bridging visa, and how do Bridging Visa A (BVA) and Bridging Visa C (BVC) differ? Understanding these differences is essential for maintaining your legal status while your substantive visa application is processed.

What Is a Bridging Visa?

A bridging visa is a temporary visa that allows you to remain legally in Australia while your substantive visa application is being assessed. This visa is crucial for applicants who lodge a new visa application while already in Australia and need to maintain a lawful status during the waiting period.

Australia offers several types of bridging visas—A, B, C, D, E, and F—each designed for specific situations and applicant circumstances.

Maintaining a valid visa or bridging visa ensures you stay compliant with Australian immigration laws, continue accessing services and work rights where applicable, and avoid legal complications.

What Is a Bridging Visa A (BVA)?

Bridging Visa A is generally granted to individuals who:

1. They are already in Australia.
2. Hold a valid visa at the time of applying for a new substantive visa.

Key Features of BVA:

1. Automatic grant: Usually, a BVA is granted automatically when you apply for a new visa while holding a valid visa.
2. Legal stay: Allows you to stay legally in Australia until your new visa decision is made.
3. Work rights: Work rights under BVA depend on your original visa conditions. Some holders have full work rights; others face restrictions.
4. Travel restrictions: If you leave Australia while on a BVA, you cannot re-enter on the same visa. To travel and return, you must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).

Eligibility Criteria:

1. You must be in Australia at the time of application.
2. You must hold a valid substantive visa when applying.

What Is a Bridging Visa C (BVC)?

Bridging Visa C is designed for individuals who:

1. We are in Australia.
2. Do not hold a valid visa at the time of applying for a new substantive visa.

This situation commonly applies to people who have overstayed a visa or otherwise lost their lawful status.

Key Features of BVC:

1. Legal stay: Grants lawful status while your substantive visa application is processed.
2. No automatic work rights: Generally, BVC holders are not entitled to work unless they can prove financial hardship.
3. No travel rights: You cannot leave and return to Australia on a BVC.
4. Application process: Must be applied for when lodging a substantive visa application without holding a valid visa.

Work Rights on BVC:

1. To obtain work rights, you must demonstrate financial hardship with strong evidence like bank statements and living expenses.
2. Work rights are not guaranteed and require approval.

Key Differences Between Bridging Visa A and C

Implications of Holding BVA vs BVC

1. BVA holders maintain their lawful status smoothly by applying on time and holding a valid visa.
2. BVC holders may face challenges due to prior visa lapses or overstays. This can affect future visa applications because it shows prior non-compliance with visa conditions.
3. Applying for work rights on BVC requires strong evidence of hardship, which is not necessary for many BVA holders.
4. Travel flexibility is much more limited with BVC.

Practical Tips When Dealing with Bridging Visas

1. Check Your Visa Conditions: Always review the specific conditions attached to your bridging visa to understand your rights and restrictions.
2. Seek Professional Advice: Immigration laws can be complex—consult a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer for personalized guidance.
3. Plan Travel Carefully: If you anticipate traveling, consider applying for a Bridging Visa B to ensure re-entry rights.
4. Prepare Financial Evidence: If applying for work rights on BVC, gather detailed financial documentation to support your claim.
5. Maintain Valid Visa Status: Wherever possible, plan your visa applications to maintain continuous lawful status with valid visas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I work on a Bridging Visa A or C?

A1: Work rights on Bridging Visa A depend on your original visa conditions and may be unrestricted or limited. Bridging Visa C holders generally do not have work rights unless they can prove financial hardship.

Q2: Can I travel outside Australia on a Bridging Visa?

A2: Bridging Visa A does not allow travel and return unless you apply for Bridging Visa B. Bridging Visa C does not permit leaving and re-entering Australia.

Q3: What happens if I overstay my visa?

A3 – If you overstay, you can apply for a Bridging Visa C. This is when you submit a new visa application to fix your status while you wait for a decision.

Q4: How do I apply for work rights on a Bridging Visa C?

A4 – You need to provide proof of financial hardship when applying for work rights on a Bridging Visa C. This proof should include bank statements and details of your living expenses.

Q5: Can holding a Bridging Visa C affect my future visa applications?

A5 – Yes, if you did not have a valid visa when you applied, it could affect future applications. This is especially true if there are worries about following the rules.

About Emigrate Lawyers

At Emigrate Lawyers, we specialize in Australian immigration law and provide expert legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances. Our experienced immigration lawyers assist clients with visa applications, bridging visas, appeals, and compliance issues. We understand the complexities of Australian immigration law and guide you every step of the way to help you achieve a successful visa outcome.

If you have questions about your bridging visa options or need assistance with your visa application, contact the experts at Emigrate Lawyers today for trusted, professional advice and support.

Conclusion

Navigating Australia’s immigration system can be complex, especially when your visa application is in process. Understanding the differences between Bridging Visa A and Bridging Visa C is essential to maintaining your lawful status and knowing your rights regarding work and travel.

While both visas serve as temporary measures to keep you legally in Australia, they apply to very different situations — BVA for those holding a valid visa, and BVC for those without one. Being informed helps you make better decisions, avoid breaches, and plan your migration journey effectively.

If you’re unsure about which bridging visa applies to you or need help with your visa application, it’s best to consult a legal professional or refer to the official guidelines provided by the Department of Home Affairs.

At Emigrate Lawyers, we provide personalised legal advice and expert support to help you make the right move. Contact us today to discuss your bridging visa or other immigration matters.

Related Insight – How to Apply for a Bridging Visa A, B, or C Using Form 1005