Bridging Visa B (BVB) Application Guide for 2023

If you’re looking to travel out of Australia urgently and/or stay in your destination country for a bit longer, a Bridging Visa B (BVB) might be the solution you need. A BVB is a temporary visa that allows you to travel outside of Australia while your application for a substantive visa is being processed.

To be eligible for a BVB, you must hold a valid Bridging Visa A and have applied for a substantive visa. You must also have a compelling reason for why you need to travel outside of Australia while your application is being processed.

The BVB allows you to travel outside of Australia for a period of up to three months. If you need to stay outside of Australia for longer than three months, you’ll need to apply for a BVB extension.

It’s important to note that a BVB doesn’t allow you to return to Australia if your substantive visa application is refused or withdrawn. If this happens, you’ll need to leave Australia immediately.

Eligibility For Bridging Visa B

To be eligible for a Bridging Visa B (BVB), you must meet the following criteria:

1. Hold a valid Bridging Visa A

You must hold a valid Bridging Visa A at the time of applying for a BVB. The Bridging Visa A must have been granted while you were in Australia and must still be valid.

2. Have a pending substantive visa application

You must have applied for a substantive visa and have that application still being processed. A BVB is not granted if you do not have a pending substantive visa application.

3. Have a genuine reason for travel

You must provide evidence of a genuine reason for traveling outside of Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed. This could include attending a family event or medical treatment that is not available in Australia.

4. Meet health and character requirements

You must meet the health and character requirements for a BVB. This means you must not have any medical conditions that would pose a risk to public health and safety, and you must not have any criminal convictions or be considered a risk to national security.

5. Meet any other criteria for the substantive visa

You must meet any other criteria for the substantive visa you have applied for, such as skills, qualifications, or work experience.

It’s important to note that meeting these criteria does not guarantee that you will be granted a BVB. The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application on a case-by-case basis and may refuse your application if they do not believe you meet the requirements.

Documents Needed for Bridging Visa B (BVB) Application

When applying for a Bridging Visa B (BVB), you will need to provide the following documents:

1. BVB application form

You will need to complete the BVB application form, which is available on the Department of Home Affairs website.

2. Valid passport

You must have a valid passport that is not expired. If your passport is due to expire soon, you should renew it before applying for a BVB.

3. Evidence of travel plans

You must provide evidence of your travel plans outside of Australia, such as flight tickets or itineraries. This must include the dates of your departure and return.

4. Evidence of compelling reason for travel

You must provide evidence of a compelling reason for why you need to travel outside of Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed. This could include documentation of a family event, medical treatment, or business obligation.

5. Evidence of substantive visa application

You must provide evidence of your pending substantive visa application, such as a copy of your visa application receipt or acknowledgment letter.

6. Health and character documents

You may need to provide health and character documents, depending on your circumstances. This could include a medical certificate or a police clearance certificate.

7. Payment of visa application fee

You must pay the visa application fee when submitting your application.

Endeavor to provide accurate and complete information and documentation when applying for a BVB. Failure to do so may result in delays or refusal of your application. If you’re unsure about what documents you need to provide, you should speak with a registered migration agent for guidance.

Steps To Apply For a Bridging Visa B (BVB)

You can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) online or by post. Here are the steps to apply for a BVB:

1. Gather the required documents

Collect all the necessary documents for your application, including the BVB application form, a valid passport, evidence of your travel plans, evidence of a compelling reason for travel, evidence of your substantive visa application, health and character documents (if required), and payment of the visa application fee.

2. Complete the BVB application form

Fill out the BVB application form with accurate and complete information. You can find the application form on the Department of Home Affairs website.

3. Submit your application

You can submit your application online or by post. If you’re applying online, you’ll need to create an ImmiAccount and upload your documents. If you’re applying by post, you’ll need to mail your application and documents to the relevant Department of Home Affairs office.

4. Wait for the decision

The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and may contact you for further information or documentation. Processing times can vary, so it’s important to submit your application as early as possible to allow for processing time.

5. Collect your BVB (if approved)

If your application is approved, you will receive your BVB by email or post. Make sure to check the conditions of the visa, including the travel period and any other restrictions or requirements.

Conclusion

A Bridging Visa B (BVB) is a temporary visa that allows you to travel outside Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed. To be eligible for a BVB, you must meet certain criteria and provide the required documentation. After submitting your application, you may be required to provide additional information or attend an interview.

The processing times for BVB applications can vary, and the Department of Home Affairs may refuse your application for various reasons, such as ineligibility, health or character issues, or lack of compelling reason for travel. If your application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal and your options for review or appeal. It’s important to seek advice from a registered migration agent if you have any questions or concerns about the BVB