Bridging Visa C (BVC) in Australia: Eligibility and Application Guide

Key Takeaways:

Bridging Visa C (BVC) allows individuals without a valid visa to stay legally in Australia while awaiting substantive visa processing.
Applying for BVC occurs automatically with substantive visa applications or separately if one’s previous visa has expired.
BVC restricts work rights unless specific criteria are met, prohibits travel, and can include family members in the application.

Australia Bridging Visa C Requirements and Process Explained

What is a Bridging Visa C in Australia?

The Bridging Visa C (BVC) is a short-term visa provided to individuals who currently do not hold a valid visa but are waiting for their substantive visa application to be processed by the Australian Immigration Department. A substantive visa encompasses all visa types except bridging visas, criminal justice visas, or enforcement visas. The BVC ensures that applicants can remain legally in Australia while their substantive visa application is under review.

Do I Automatically Get a Bridging Visa C?

You will receive a BVC concurrently when you apply for your substantive visa. The BVC is “activated” once your previous substantive visa expires. However, if you don’t currently hold a visa, a separate application for the BVC is necessary. Additionally, an extra application is required if:

You need a BVC that does not restrict your working rights.
You have applied for judicial review.

Who is Eligible for an Australia Bridging Visa C?

To apply for a Bridging Visa C, you must meet specific conditions:

You must be in Australia at the time of application.
You should not possess a Bridging Visa E.
You do not currently hold a substantive visa.

How is a Bridging Visa C Granted?

Bridging Visa C (BVC) in Australia: Eligibility and Application Guide

The granting process for a Bridging Visa C involves several steps:

You do not have a current substantive visa in Australia.
You submit an application for a substantive visa.
You apply for a Bridging Visa C.
You remain legally in Australia with the BVC during the processing period.

What are the Requirements for an Australia Bridging Visa C?

To apply for a Bridging Visa C, you need to prepare the following documents:

Proof of identity: This includes a copy of your passport’s bio page and a copy of another identification document like your driver’s license or national ID. If you have changed your name, provide a certificate as proof.
Proof of hardship: If applicable, provide documents that demonstrate your financial or other hardships.
Character certificates: Submit certificates that prove you meet character requirements.
Assistance documents: If someone is assisting with your application, you must submit either Form 956 or Form 956a.

How Do I Apply for a Bridging Visa C?

You can apply for a Bridging Visa C online through an ImmiAccount here. Alternatively, if you applied for your substantive visa via paper application, you must also lodge a paper application for the Bridging Visa C. Applications for judicial review must also be submitted on paper.

What is the Processing Time for a Bridging Visa C?

There is no specific timeframe for the processing of a Bridging Visa C application. The duration depends on the completeness of your application. Any missing documents or incorrect information can delay the review process.

What is the Cost of a Bridging Visa C?

The good news is that there is no application fee for a Bridging Visa C.

How Long Does a Bridging Visa C Last?

A Bridging Visa C remains valid until a decision is made on your substantive visa application. Whether your substantive visa is granted or denied, the validity of your Bridging Visa C ceases immediately. The same applies if there is a final decision on a judicial review or if you withdraw your visa application or request for judicial review.

What If I Need to Stay Longer with a Bridging Visa C?

You cannot extend a Bridging Visa C once it expires. If your BVC term ends, and you need to stay longer, you must reapply for another Bridging Visa C. Staying in Australia without a valid visa is illegal.

Can I Work on a Bridging Visa C?

Working rights are generally restricted under a Bridging Visa C unless you applied for specific substantive visas such as:

Business Talent Visa (subclass 132)
Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188)
Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (subclass 888)
Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186)
Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme Visa (subclass 187)
Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
Skilled Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 489)

To alter these restrictions, you can apply for another BVC that permits work if you can demonstrate financial hardship and meet other specific criteria.

Can I Study with a Bridging Visa C?

You may study while holding a Bridging Visa C, but this can be restricted based on the conditions of any previous visa you held. Certain study restrictions might apply depending on your circumstances. Always verify your visa conditions on the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO).

Can I Travel with a Bridging Visa C?

Travel is not permitted under a Bridging Visa C. If you leave Australia while holding a BVC, it becomes invalid, and you will not be able to re-enter the country unless you obtain another substantive visa from outside Australia.

Is a Bridging Visa C transferable to a Bridging Visa B?

You cannot switch from a Bridging Visa C to a Bridging Visa B. To travel freely in and out of Australia, only Bridging Visa A holders can apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).

Can I Include Family Members in My Bridging Visa C Application?

Yes, if your family members are in Australia with you, you can include them in your Bridging Visa C application. This allows them to stay legally in Australia while your substantive visa application is under review.

What Conditions Apply to a Bridging Visa C?

Three key conditions apply to a Bridging Visa C:

No Work Condition (8101): You cannot work unless you have permission from the Department of Foreign Affairs. This is typically restricted to work related to your study field (if a student) or approved volunteer work.
Condition 8303: You must not harm, threaten, or endanger others in Australia.
Condition 8501: You must maintain valid health insurance throughout your stay.

Violating these conditions can lead to the cancellation of your Bridging Visa C.

Can I Access Medicare with a Bridging Visa C?

If you are a permanent visa applicant, you might have limited access to Medicare in Australia. You might also qualify for income assistance and housing support through the Asylum Seeker Assistance Scheme (ASAS) if you meet eligibility criteria.

For more detailed and authoritative information about visa guidelines and regulations, you may visit the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

In summary, the Bridging Visa C is an essential document for individuals waiting for their substantive visa processing in Australia. While it provides temporary legal status, it comes with specific conditions and restrictions, so it’s crucial for applicants to understand all requirements and maintain compliance.

Whether you are concerned about maintaining legal status, working rights, studying, traveling, or including family members, it’s vital to stay informed and follow the necessary steps to ensure your stay in Australia is lawful and smooth. Always have your applications completed accurately and keep abreast of any changes in immigration policies.

Learn Today:

Glossary of Immigration Terms

Bridging Visa C (BVC)
- A temporary visa is granted to individuals without a valid visa who are waiting for a decision on their substantive visa application. It allows them to stay legally in Australia during this period.
Substantive Visa
- Any visa type in Australia excluding bridging visas, criminal justice visas, or enforcement visas. Examples include permanent and temporary visas for migration, study, or work.
Proof of Hardship
- Documents that demonstrate financial or other significant hardships. These are required if applying for a BVC without work restrictions or seeking changes in visa conditions.
Judicial Review
- A legal process wherein an individual can request a court to review the decision made by the Department of Home Affairs on their visa application, often necessitating a separate BVC application.
Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO)
- An online tool provided by the Australian Department of Home Affairs where visa holders can check their visa conditions, including work and study rights, and travel restrictions.

This Article In A Nutshell:

The Bridging Visa C is crucial for those awaiting their substantive visa in Australia. It grants temporary legal status with specific conditions. Remember, this visa does not allow travel, necessitates health insurance, and has work restrictions. Stay informed, comply with rules, and keep updated on Australian immigration policies for a seamless stay.
— By VisaVerge.com