If your Australian visa has expired or you missed the application deadline, but you want to continue staying in Australia, what should you do?
Luckily, there is a way to come out of this situation. Apply for Bridging Visa C subclass 030 now!
Bridging a visa, as accurate as its name, acts as a crucial link and lets you continue staying in Australia. Because it is unlawful in Australia to remain in Australia if your current visa has expired, usually, when you apply for your new substantive visa, you might be granted a BVC visa automatically.
Further, you must be physically present in Australia when you apply for and are given the Bridging Visa C. Although it is mandatory to apply for BVC separately based on the following circumstances:
- You have appealed a decision that is currently under judicial review.
- You want to request work rights since your original Bridging Visa C does not include them.
Let’s get started by learning more about Bridging Visa C, its eligibility criteria, processing time, and several benefits. Before moving forward to its comprehensive insights, let me first explain Bridging Visa C, subclass 030.
What is Bridging Visa C?
A bridging visa can be granted to you if you are waiting for the Department of Home Affairs to process your substantive visa application. The Bridging Visa BVC is a type of visa that allows non-citizens of Australia whose visas get expired and are waiting for the new substantive visa application approval.
It is a short-term or temporary visa that allows you to stay in Australia legally until your new visa application is accepted. A BVC visa helps you stay in Australia for a short duration.
You will need a substantive visa to stay longtime. According to Australian law, substantive visas include all visas other than bridging visas, enforcement visas, and criminal justice visas.
Eligibility Criteria For Bridging Visa C in 2025
Here are the eligibility criteria for BVC visas that applicants need to meet before they lodge their BVC visa application:
Location Requirements: Applicants must be present in Australia’s premises while the application is processed and when the visa is granted.
Visa Status: You must not hold any substantive visa at the time of application.
Bridging Visa E (BVE) Restriction: You are not allowed to hold a Bridging Visa E (BVE) currently or have held a BVE since you last held a substantive visa.
Apply for a Substantive Visa: You must apply for a substantive visa.
Judicial Review: If your substantive visa application is under judicial review, you can still apply for a Bridging C visa.
Bridging Visa Australia Cost And Processing Time
Cost
Bridging visa C is free of charge, as there is no application fee.
Processing Time
The processing time depends on the unique needs and situations of the applicants. However, there is a very short application time, as it may take only two to three weeks for the application to be processed.
Benefits Of Bridging Visa C
Here are some of the benefits of BVC subclass 030:
Legal Stay: BVC allows you to remain in Australia legally while waiting for the substantive visa application proceeding or its judicial review.
Work Rights: Based on your previous visa requirements, you may be eligible to work. If you can demonstrate financial hardship, this can provide crucial support while you wait for the outcome of your visa application.
No Application Fee: There is no application fee for applying for BVC.
Shorter Processing Time: Its processing time is shorter; it generally takes only 2 to 3 weeks.
Flexibility: BVC offers flexibility to applicants who do not hold a substantive visa at the time of application.
Important Disclaimers for BVC
Before you apply for a BVC, please note:
- All bridging Australian visas are applied automatically when you send an application for your substantive visa.
- You may already have a BVC granted by VEVO. Check with the department if that is the case.
- You may need to apply for a BVC separately only if you apply for a judicial review
- If you require a BVC for work purposes, a separate BVC application is required.
Requirements For Bridging Visa C
The process for BVC, although simple, still requires you to provide the following documents:
- Proof of your identity including copies of your passport, national ID card, and driver’s license.
- In case of disability or some financial difficulty, you have to provide proof of hardship
- Character certificate (certificates from study/work)
- Any additional documents the department requires
Staying Duration With Bridging Visa C
BVC is a temporary visa. It ceases to be in effect if:
- You travel to another country on your BVC (before the substantive visa is granted)
- You receive your substantive visa
- You get another BVC (for work/study/other reasons)
- Your substantive visa application is rejected or dismissed
Application Process for Bridging Visa C in 2025: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
You must gather all necessary documents and supporting documents, such as proof of hardship, study/work documents, and health/character certificates.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
If you have already followed step one, create an ImmiAccount to apply for your BVC visa application. This account will be used to submit your application.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
In the next step, log in to your ImmiAccount and complete your Bridging Visa C application form. Make sure you have submitted accurate information and completed it.
Step 4: Attach supporting documents
Upload all necessary documents and current visa details to your application.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Once you have applied, the department will notify you. The department does not inform you of processing time; you must wait for them to contact you. Submit any additional documents or edit applications if you have made errors. You can also include your relatives and your children in your BVC application. Remember, you cannot leave your visa before an outcome is achieved.
Step 6: Receive Notification
You will receive the outcome of your visa in writing from the department. The department will inform you of your visa grant number, the application date, and any conditions you must follow. Similarly, the department notifies you of the reasons if it is rejected.
What To Do Next?
Bridging Visas are temporary but important, as these visas play a crucial role in remaining in Australia after expiring your current Australia visa. Bridging Visa C Australia is a great option for anyone who wants to extend their stay in Australia legally, as it requires no visa application fee and a short processing time.
Applying for a visa while keeping track of all your submissions can be a tiring job. If you want to avoid the hassle and eliminate any human errors, make sure you get the right guidance.
The Migration is a registered company situated in Australia and helps assist students, workers, and migrants from various countries to get their visas. Through its dedicated employees, you get access to all the help you need. For more information, feel free to contact us.
FAQs
Q1. Am I allowed to travel from and to Australia with my BVC?
A1. No, you have to remain within Australia till your application for a substantive visa is approved. If you travel from Australia with BVC, you will not be allowed to return.
Q2. Am I allowed to apply for BVB if I already have BVC?
A1. No, holders of Bridging Visa C Australia can not apply for BVB. To be eligible for a BVB, you need a BVA. However, you can apply for any other visa while you have a bridging visa.
Q3. Are my family members included in my BVC application?
A3. Yes, you can. However, they have to be present in Australia for their visas to be processed.
Q4. What is the Bridging Visa Australia validity?
A4. Bridging visa Australia validity ends as soon as you get an outcome for your substantive visa. BVC only applies when your last substantive visa has expired and the next one is in process.
Q5. Do I get access to Medicare with BVC?
A5. Yes, you may access Medicare, Australia’s free public health service; however, your access may be limited if you are not a permanent resident or holder of a substantive visa.
