What types of bridging visa can I get in Australia, and how do BVA, BVB and BVC differ?
15 Oct 2026 · Answered by Tamanna Jaisingh · 2 min read
Quick Answer
verified
Australia has three main bridging visas. Bridging Visa A (subclass 010) lets you stay while your next visa is decided, Bridging Visa B (subclass 020) allows one exit and re-entry within approved dates, and Bridging Visa C (subclass 030) is for people whose visa had already expired when they applied.
There are three primary bridging visa types in Australia: BVA, BVB and BVC. Each is tied to a different stage of your visa journey, which affects your work, study and travel rights.
BVA, BVB and BVC Compared
| Aspect | BVA (subclass 010) | BVB (subclass 020) | BVC (subclass 030) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Stay in Australia after your current visa ends, while the next visa is decided | Leave and re-enter once during an approved travel window | Stay lawfully until a decision when you have no current substantive visa |
| Cost | Free | AUD 575 (approx INR 38,220) | Free |
| Apply from | While in Australia | Inside Australia or before leaving Australia | Inside Australia |
| Travel | Not allowed; ceases if you leave Australia | One exit and re-entry within approved dates, often up to about 3 months | Not allowed; ceases permanently if you leave Australia |
| Work rights | Carried over from your prior substantive visa, not automatic | Not stated in the source | Restricted for applicants of certain subclasses, including 189, 190 and 491 |
Which One Applies to You
- BVA may become relevant when you have lodged an eligible onshore visa application and your current visa is due to cease before it is decided.
- BVB is for BVA or BVB holders who need to travel, and you must be in Australia when you apply and when it is granted.
- BVC applies when your visa had already expired before you lodged the new application, so you were technically unlawful for a period.
- The key question is which visa you held when you lodged the substantive application, not just whether you are an international student.
- Older types such as 040, 041, 050 and 051 no longer exist.
My Advice
Fees and rules change, so check the Home Affairs page for the latest details before applying. If your visa has already lapsed, get professional guidance quickly because your travel and work rights are limited.
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