If you hold a Bridging Visa A and need to travel outside Australia before your substantive visa is decided, you must obtain a Bridging Visa B (BVB) before you leave. Leaving Australia on a BVA without a BVB causes your BVA to cease, and you may not be able to return. This is one of the most common and most avoidable migration mistakes Gemini sees every year.

Key Requirements

• Must already hold or be entitled to a Bridging Visa A

• Must apply BEFORE departing Australia, cannot be applied for from overseas

• Must have a substantive visa application pending decision

• Must provide reason for travel (business, family emergency, etc.)

• Must intend to return to Australia before the BVB travel period ends

Who is This Visa For?

People who hold or are eligible for a Bridging Visa A and need to travel internationally while their substantive visa application is being processed. Must have compelling reasons for travel (family emergency, business, etc.).

Visa Conditions

• Granted for a specified travel period, usually tied to the stated travel purpose

• Work rights: Inherits the same work rights as your associated BVA

• On return to Australia, the BVA conditions resume

• If your substantive visa is refused while overseas, the BVB ceases on your return, and you may be unable to re-enter

Processing Time and Cost

• Processing Time: Can be processed same day for urgent applications; routine processing 1–7 days

• Visa Application Charge: AUD 175 (2024–25)

How We Help

Gemini files BVB applications on behalf of clients before any international travel, advises on the risk profile of travelling while a substantive application is pending, and manages return-to-Australia timelines to avoid BVB expiry.