Bridging visa A

Overview

Bridging visa A (subclass 010) is usually granted automatically when you apply for a new substantive visa while you hold a substantive visa. It keeps you lawful while your application is decided. It does not let you travel outside Australia and return, for that you would look at a Bridging visa B. Your work and study rights depend on the conditions attached.

How the pathway works

The flowchart below shows the journey and the key decision points along the way. Where the answer is “no”, we show how AuzRoo can help you find another way forward.

What this visa lets you do

• Stay lawfully in Australia while your application is decided
• Work or study depending on the conditions granted
• Remain on the same conditions as your previous visa in many cases

Who can apply

To be granted this visa you generally need to meet all of the following. Every case is assessed on its own facts, so treat this as a guide rather than a checklist.

A pending substantive visa application

You must have applied for a further substantive visa while you held a substantive visa.

In Australia

You must be in Australia.

Conditions

Your work and study rights depend on the conditions attached to the bridging visa.

Comes into effect later

A Bridging visa A generally comes into effect only when your previous substantive visa ends.

How to apply, step by step

1. Lodge your substantive visa application while you still hold a substantive visa.
2. Receive the Bridging visa A usually granted at the same time.
3. Check the conditions attached, for work and study.
4. Apply for a Bridging visa B if you need to travel and return.
5. Stay lawful until your application is decided.

Costs and processing

There is usually no separate charge for a Bridging visa A granted with your application. Government charges and processing times change and depend on your circumstances, so we confirm the current figures for your case during your consultation.

When you have the visa

Comply with the conditions on your bridging visa. It does not allow travel outside Australia and return, so speak with us before leaving the country.