Bridging visa C

Overview

Bridging visa C (subclass 030) generally applies to people who applied for a substantive visa when they were unlawful or did not have a Bridging visa A. It keeps you lawful while your application is decided but does not allow travel outside Australia and return. Work rights are often limited and may require showing financial hardship.

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
• Apply for work rights in some circumstances
• Resolve your immigration status through your application

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 applied for a substantive visa, often while unlawful or without a Bridging visa A.

In Australia

You must be in Australia.

Limited travel

This visa does not allow travel outside Australia and return.

Work rights

Work rights are often restricted and may require evidence of financial hardship.

How to apply, step by step

1. Seek advice quickly if you are unlawful or without a bridging visa.
2. Lodge your substantive visa application which may attract a Bridging visa C.
3. Apply for work rights where hardship rules allow.
4. Do not travel without advice, since return is not included.
5. Stay lawful until your application is decided.

Costs and processing

Charges depend on the substantive application. Work-right requests may need supporting evidence. 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 your conditions and do not leave Australia expecting to return on this visa. If your circumstances are difficult, seek advice early so your status stays lawful.