A Bridging Visa B (BVB) allows you to remain in Australia while waiting for the Department of Home Affairs to process your substantive visa application or for the outcome of a court case or merits review. This visa also includes a specified travel window, enabling you to leave and re-enter Australia during this period. If you are in Australia when the travel window expires, you can apply for another BVB, provided you travel outside Australia again.
Bridging Visa B Processing Time
The processing time for a Bridging Visa B typically ranges from 1 to 2 weeks. However, the Department of Home Affairs advises applicants to plan their travel accordingly and consider the processing timeline before making arrangements.
Bridging Visa B Eligibility
To be eligible for a Bridging Visa B, you must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Bridging Visa A or Bridging Visa B, or have previously held a substantive visa.
- Submit your application on time for both the Bridging Visa B and your substantive visa or judicial review.
- Provide compelling reasons for travel, such as urgent personal, professional, or medical circumstances, while your substantive visa application or judicial review is in progress.
- Fulfill the required character standards as set by the Department of Home Affairs.
There are no age restrictions for this visa.
How to Apply for a Bridging Visa B
To apply for a Bridging Visa B, you must complete and submit the appropriate forms:
- Form 1005 (Internet) or Form 1006 (Internet): These forms gather relevant travel and payment information to facilitate a quicker evaluation of your application.
It is essential to ensure that all application forms are filled out accurately and submitted per Australian migration regulations.
Application for Family Members
Family members can be included in your BVB application as part of a family unit. While only one Visa Application Fee (A$165) is required for the family, each family member must meet the visa’s eligibility criteria to have their applications approved.
Note: Family unit members will only receive BVB grants if their substantive visa applications or judicial review requests are connected.
Bridging Visa B Cost
The application fee for a Bridging Visa B is A$165.
Key Considerations for Bridging Visa B
- BVBs are temporary travel visas with a validity period of around 35 days.
- If your travel extends beyond the validity of your current BVB, you will need to apply for a new one.
- For urgent travel needs, ensure your application is complete and submit it well in advance to avoid delays.
Conclusion
The Bridging Visa B is a convenient solution for those needing to travel while waiting for their substantive visa or review outcomes. While it allows you to depart and return to Australia during its validity, its application process can be complex due to specific requirements.
Emergencies can occur at any time, and a BVB can help facilitate travel in such situations. To navigate this process smoothly, consider seeking professional guidance.
Migration Agent Adelaide provides experienced assistance, helping you with everything from filling out forms to ensuring all requirements are met, making your BVB application stress-free. Trust the experts to streamline your application and give you peace of mind during this process.