If you are currently on a bridging visa in Australia and are considering going back home, it’s essential to understand the rules and options available to you. Bridging visas are temporary visas that allow you to stay in Australia while your application for a substantive visa is being processed.
However, not all bridging visas come with the same travel rights. That’s why clients often ask this question:
Can I go back home if I’m currently on a bridging visa?
Yes, you can leave and re-enter Australia with a bridging visa B. To learn more about the travel rights, continue reading this blog.
Can I Go Back Home If I’m Currently on a Bridging Visa?
If you are currently on a bridging visa in Australia, whether you can go back home depends on the type of bridging visa you hold. There are different types of bridging visas, and each has specific conditions regarding travel:
Bridging Visa A (BVA)
- This visa allows you to stay in Australia legally while waiting for your visa application decision.
- It does not allow you to leave Australia and return.
- If you leave while on a BVA, your visa will cease, and you cannot come back until your substantive visa is granted.
Bridging Visa B (BVB)
- If you want to travel outside Australia and return while your substantive visa application is being processed, apply for a BVB before leaving.
- This visa grants temporary travel rights, allowing you to depart and re-enter Australia during a specified travel period.
Bridging Visa C (BVC)
- This visa does not provide any travel rights.
- If you leave Australia while on this visa, you will not be able to return.
When Can You Travel on a Bridging Visa B?
If you hold a Bridging Visa B (BVB) in Australia, you can travel outside the country during a specific travel period granted to you. Here’s what you need to know about travelling on a BVB:
When you receive your BVB, it will come with a clearly defined travel period. This is the time frame during which you are allowed to leave Australia and then return. The Department of Home Affairs decides this travel period based on two main factors:
- You need to provide a valid reason for wanting to leave Australia.
- The expected time for a decision on your substantive visa application will also be considered.
Important Notes
- Once your BVB is granted, the travel period cannot be changed or extended.
- If you are in Australia when the travel period ends and need to travel again, you can apply for another BVB, but you must do this before leaving Australia.
- If your BVB expires before you return or if you do not have a valid visa upon re-entry, you may need to apply for another visa from outside Australia.
- Always ensure that you comply with the conditions of your bridging visa. Not following these conditions can lead to complications with your immigration status.
How to Apply for a Bridging Visa B in Australia?
If you need to travel outside Australia while waiting for your visa application to be processed, you can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB). Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to apply for a BVB.
- Step 1: Check your eligibility.
- Step 2: Gather all the required documents.
- Step 3: Apply for the bridging visa B (BVB).
- Step 4: Wait for the processing.
Here’s a closer look at each of these steps to develop a better understanding of the topic.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you are eligible for a Bridging Visa B. You can apply if:
- You are currently in Australia.
- You hold a Bridging Visa A or another bridging visa.
- You have applied for a new substantive visa or are seeking a judicial review of a previous visa decision.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Once you have checked your eligibility, the next step is to gather and organise all the required documents. These documents may include the following:
- A copy of your passport showing your personal details.
- Evidence of why you want to travel (like a travel itinerary or flight tickets).
- Any other supporting documents that explain your reason for leaving Australia?
Step 3: Apply for the bridging visa B (BVB).
To apply online, you need to create an ImmiAccount. If you don’t have one, follow these steps:
- Go to the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Click on “Create ImmiAccount” and fill in the required information.
- Once you have your account, log in using your username and password.
- Navigate to the “My Applications” section in your ImmiAccount.
- Look for the application related to your current substantive visa.
- Click on “Update us” and select “Application for Bridging Visa.”
- Download the application form and fill it out correctly.
- Attach all the required documents, pay the application fee and submit the form.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
After submitting, the Department of Home Affairs will process your application. This can take anywhere from one day to two weeks. Keep an eye on your email or ImmiAccount for updates regarding your application status.
Important Notes
- If you are outside Australia when applying, you cannot submit an online application for a BVB.
- Make sure to apply well in advance of any planned travel to avoid complications.
- If your travel period ends while you are still in Australia and you want to travel again, you will need to apply for another BVB.
By following these steps, you can submit your application, which allows you to travel outside Australia while waiting for your visa decision.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, if you are on a Bridging Visa A and want to go back home, it’s important to apply for a Bridging Visa B before leaving Australia. Without this visa, leaving the country will result in losing your current bridging visa status.
Always check the specific conditions of your bridging visa and consult with immigration authorities if you’re unsure about your options. Schedule an appointment now with our experts at The Migartion if you need professional assistance regarding submitting flawless visa applications.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you leave and come back on a bridging visa?
You can leave and come back to Australia on a bridging visa only if you have a Bridging Visa B (BVB). This type of visa allows you to travel outside Australia and return during a specified travel period. However, if you have a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or other types, leaving Australia will cancel your visa, and you won’t be able to return.
What are bridging visa restrictions?
Bridging visa restrictions vary depending on the type. For example, a BVA does not allow you to leave Australia, while a BVB permits travel. Generally, bridging visas have conditions that may limit work or study rights based on your previous visa.
What happens when you are on a bridging visa?
When you are on a bridging visa, you are allowed to stay in Australia while waiting for a decision on your new visa application or making arrangements to leave the country. It is important to comply with the conditions of your bridging visa to avoid legal issues
How long can you stay outside Australia on a bridging visa B?
If you hold a Bridging Visa B (BVB), you can stay outside Australia for the duration specified in your visa’s travel period, It can range from three to twelve months depending on your situation
I, Samavia Shahid, am a researcher and content writer at The Migration. I create easy-to-understand and informative content for people who want to move to Australia. My goal is to make the migration process simpler and less stressful for everyone.