When transitioning between visas in Australia, many international students find themselves in a grey area—unsure of their status and next steps. That’s where a Bridging Visa comes in. Often overlooked, a Bridging Visa can be a critical lifeline, allowing you to remain in Australia legally while your new visa is being processed.
In this blog, we’ll break down what a Bridging Visa is, the different types, who it’s for, and how IStudentPlus can help make your transition stress-free.
What Is a Bridging Visa?
A Bridging Visa (BV) is a temporary visa that lets you stay in Australia lawfully while your substantive visa application is being processed, or when you are making arrangements to leave the country.
It does not replace a regular student or work visa, but acts as a bridge—a legal pause—between your previous visa and your next one.
Different Types of Bridging Visas for Students
There are several types of Bridging Visas, but the most relevant to international students are:
- Bridging Visa A (BVA): Given when you apply for a new visa while holding a valid one.
- Bridging Visa B (BVB): Lets you leave and re-enter Australia while your application is processed.
- Bridging Visa C (BVC): Given if you apply for a visa after your previous one has expired (conditions apply).
- Bridging Visa E (BVE): A last-resort option if you’re unlawful in Australia and need time to leave or sort your visa.
⚠️ Each has different rights and restrictions. For example, not all Bridging Visas allow you to work or study.
When and Why You Might Need One
You may need a Bridging Visa in the following situations:
- You’ve applied for a new student visa while your current one is about to expire.
- You’re transitioning from a student visa to a temporary graduate visa (485).
- You’re applying for a different type of visa, such as a partner or PR visa, while in Australia.
- Your current visa has expired and you need time to regularize your status.
Getting the right type of Bridging Visa is essential to avoid becoming unlawful in Australia.
Rights and Conditions: Can You Work or Study?
Your Bridging Visa conditions depend on:
- The type of Bridging Visa issued,
- The conditions of your previous visa,
- The visa you’re applying for.
Here’s a general overview:
| Bridging Visa | Work Rights | Study Rights | Travel Rights |
| BVA | Limited (need to apply) | Yes (same as old visa) | No |
| BVB | Yes | Yes | Yes (limited time) |
| BVC | No (unless granted) | Yes (may vary) | No |
| BVE | No (unless granted) | No | No |
Note: You may be able to request work rights under certain conditions.
IStudentPlus: Bridging Visa Support Services
IStudentPlus helps international students manage visa transitions, especially when things get complicated. Here’s how we can support you:
- ✅ Bridging Visa Application Guidance
We help you choose the correct visa type and submit the required documents properly.
- ✅ Work Rights Assistance
Need to request work rights? We’ll guide you through the process and help you prepare strong supporting documents.
- ✅ Status Monitoring
We track your bridging visa and main visa processing timeline so you don’t miss critical updates.
- ✅ Emergency Advice
Unlawful status? Visa expired suddenly? Our team provides fast advice to get you back on track legally.
With IStudentPlus, your visa transition becomes easier, clearer, and less stressful.
FAQs
Q: Can I leave Australia while on a Bridging Visa?
A: Only if you hold a Bridging Visa B (BVB). Other types (like BVA) do not allow travel.
Q: Do I automatically get a Bridging Visa when I apply for a new visa?
A: Yes, in most cases, if you apply while your current visa is still valid.
Q: Can I work full-time on a Bridging Visa?
A: Not automatically. You must apply separately for permission to work unless your previous visa allowed it.
Q: How can IStudentPlus help me during this period?
A: From advising on the right visa type to preparing documents and tracking your visa status, we’ve got you covered.
