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In Australia, if you are living on a temporary visa and need to travel overseas while your substantive visa application is being processed, a Bridging Visa B may be an option, depending on your circumstances. This guide offers an in-depth look at what this visa entails, the current bridging visa B (BVB) fees, its application process, and more.
¿Qué es un visado puente B (BVB)?
The BVB (subclass 020) is a temporary travel facility available to eligible applicants awaiting their substantive visa decision. Below are the key features to understand before applying:
Purpose of a Bridging Visa B in Australia
The BVB visa is specifically designed for applicants who need to leave and re-enter Australia, while they wait for their substantive visa outcome from the Department of Home Affairs. In simple terms, it is a visa pathway for when you need to travel overseas but need to return to Australia lawfully during the approved travel period.
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Concertar una consulta
Si está interesado en obtener más información sobre un visado, póngase en contacto con Australian Migration Agents para una consulta.
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Who Needs a Bridging Visa B?
A BVB may be needed if you hold a Bridging Visa A or Bridging Visa B and need permission to travel outside Australia while awaiting a substantive visa decision. It is typically provided to those who have applied for a new substantive visa before leaving Australia.
Key Features of BVB
- The ability to leave Australia and re-enter within the approved travel period.
- The ability to include eligible family members who have also applied for the substantive visa.
- The approved travel period depends on the Department’s assessment and your individual circumstances.
Bridging Visa B Cost in Australia (2026 Updated Fees)
The government application charge may change, and applicants should check the current Department of Home Affairs fee before lodging. Additional costs may depend on individual circumstances:
Official Government Application Fee
The official application fee for a BVB is $190. It does not include any additional charges for applicants over or under 18 years of age, or any non-Internet application fees.
Additional Costs You Should Expect
While the official application fee is $190, there are some additional expenses you must prepare for. These usually depend on different factors, including:
- Biometric submissions
- Evaluaciones sanitarias
- Fees for hiring a migration agent
- Police clearance certificates, if applicable
- Costs specific to your travel plans
Is the Bridging Visa B Fee Refundable?
The BVB fee is non-refundable, regardless of your visa outcome. Applicants should check the Department of Home Affairs’ current refund policy before lodging.
Why the Cost Can Vary
Costs for a bridging visa B can often vary due to the following reasons:
- Specific travel reasons, such as a family emergency, serious family circumstances, or overseas medical treatment, can add to the costs.
- While consulting an immigration agent also increases the overall expenses, preparing the application without guidance may increase the risk of errors or missing information. A registered migration agent can help you understand the requirements, prepare supporting documents, and submit a decision-ready application.
- Additional obligations, such as getting health assessments or police clearances, also involve their specific fees that you have to account for.
Latest Updates on Bridging Visa B Fees & Rules (2026)
As of 2026, the eligibility criteria and application fee for a BVB visa remain unchanged. However, if you plan to apply for it after July 2026, you must check the fee indexation updates. Visa application charges may be indexed on 1 July, so applicants should check the current fee before lodging. The current fee of $575 is for the 2025-2026 year. It may increase after 1 July 2026, so you must check the updated fee before you lodge your BVB application.
Bridging Visa B Processing Time in Australia
Here is a detailed breakdown of what the processing time involves for a BVB visa:
Average Processing Time for BVB
The Department of Home Affairs does not publish official processing times for BVB applications. However, the average processing time can often be between 1 and 7 business days, sometimes even 3 weeks.
When You Should Apply for a BVB
Although there are no official processing times, it is advisable to apply for your BVB at least 2 weeks before your planned travel dates.
Factors That Affect Processing Time
- Incomplete or incorrect documents are among the biggest reasons processing is delayed. In such cases, the Department of Home Affairs may issue a request for further information (RFI), which delays the processing timeline.
- A valid passport is essential for the BVB application process. An outdated passport or incorrect passport details can also affect processing times.
- Application volume can also affect processing times. High volume or departmental workload can prolong the application process.
Eligibility for Bridging Visa B
A BVB is only available to applicants who meet the relevant eligibility criteria:
Who Can Apply for a BVB?
You can only apply for a BVB upon meeting these eligibility requirements:
- You currently have a valid bridging visa A or a bridging visa B.
- Ha sido titular anteriormente de un visado sustantivo.
- You have applied in Australia for a substantive visa that can be granted while you are in Australia, or you meet the requirements connected with eligible review proceedings.
- You have a genuine reason for wanting to travel, along with supporting documents.
- You have met the Department of Home Affairs' character requirements.
Valid Reasons for Applying
Presenting valid or substantial reasons to travel overseas is a must. These generally include:
- Work commitments
- Visiting immediate family members who are seriously ill
- Seeking medical treatment
- Compelling personal reasons
Who Cannot Apply for BVB?
Applicants who do not meet the eligibility criteria may not be able to apply for a BVB. Applicants who are offshore cannot apply for this visa, either.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Bridging Visa B
If you are considering a BVB application, here are the steps to follow:
Step 1 – Log in to ImmiAccount
Use your ImmiAccount credentials to log in. Before starting your application, go to VEVO to check if you hold a BVA or BVB. Also, check your passport validity before you begin.
Step 2 – Submit BVB Application Form
Most BVB applications are lodged online. Applicants should follow the Department’s current instructions for lodging a Bridging Visa B application.
Step 3 – Upload Supporting Documents
Upload all the required documents for your visa, such as:
- Passport copy
- Documentation on your current visa status
- Proof of your substantive visa application
- Evidence of travel reasons (for example, business invitations, medical reports, or a death certificate)
Step 4 – Pay the Application Fee
After submitting your application, pay the required $575 through your ImmiAccount to lodge it. Make sure you keep a copy of your payment receipt as proof.
Step 5 – Wait for Visa Decision
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs' review and decision. You will be notified of their decision in writing.
What Does the Bridging Visa B Allow You to Do?
A BVB may allow you to do the following, depending on your visa conditions:
- Leave Australia and re-enter within the specified travel period.
- Lawfully reside in Australia while your substantive visa application undergoes its review.
- Use the visa for single or multiple trips, depending on your specific visa conditions, and within the defined travel period.
- Work under a BVB visa if your previous substantive visa or the one you applied for allows it. This will be specified in your visa grant letter.
Common Reasons for BVB Refusal or Delay
When applying for a BVB, it is important to understand why it is often delayed or denied, so you can avoid those mistakes. Here are some common reasons to keep in mind:
Insufficient Travel Reason
Without a genuine travel reason and supporting evidence, the application may be delayed or refused. The Department of Home Affairs only grants this visa when it is satisfied that the reason for your travel overseas is sufficient, such as a business meeting or a family emergency.
Documentos que faltan o son incorrectos
Providing accurate supporting documents can help reduce the risk of delays. Without them, you might receive RFIs that delay processing or even get a refusal.
Late Application Before Travel Date
Adhering to the ideal timelines (at least 2 weeks before travelling) is also critical. If your application is lodged too late, especially during peak periods, it may increase the risk of processing delays.
Immigration Risk Assessment Concerns
Since every visa involves character checks, any issues with clearing them can lead to problems with a BVB application. Prior refusals or criminal records, breaching visa conditions (for example, overstaying a visa), or a highly complex substantive visa application, may lead to delays or refusal, depending on the circumstances.
Bridging Visa B Cost vs Other Bridging Visas
Here is a comparison of how a BVB fares against BVA and BVC, regarding its official fees:
BVB vs Bridging Visa A (BVA)
While the BVB has a $575 fee, the bridging visa A generally has no application charge, but applicants should check the current Department of Home Affairs’ fee table before applying.
BVB vs Bridging Visa C (BVC)
The bridging visa C is also free, unlike a BVB, which incurs an application fee.
Can You Extend a Bridging Visa B?
The BVB grant letter clearly states the approved travel period, and that requires close attention. This is because if further travel is required, you may need to apply for another BVB before travelling, so you will need to apply for another BVB when your current visa expires.
Tips to Avoid BVB Application Delays
If you are applying for your BVB, follow these tips to avoid processing delays:
Apply Early
Applying a few days before your travel dates is a big mistake. If you have everything planned, you can apply 3 months before, which may allow more time for assessment.
Provide Strong Supporting Documents
Remember to provide every supporting document required for your application. They must be up to date, accurate, and complete with all the relevant information.
Clearly Explain Travel Reason
The more detailed your travel reasons, the lower the chances of a delay or refusal. State them as clearly as you can, and attach supporting evidence.
Avoid Last-Minute Applications
Last-minute applications, even when approved, often mean you get your BVB after your departure date. Where possible, apply well before your planned travel date.
When Should You Use a Migration Agent for BVB?
From getting the application timeline right to understanding the exact period of travel allowed, a lot often makes the BVB application process feel overwhelming. Hence, you may wish to seek guidance from a registered migration agent.
At Australian Migration Agents, registered migration agents provide clear guidance on visa requirements and application steps, including BVBs. We provide step-by-step guidance, even beyond lodgement, so you can make informed decisions about your application. Book a consultation to discuss your specific visa needs with us.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bridging Visa B Cost
How Much Does a Bridging Visa B Cost in Australia in 2026?
A BVB in Australia costs $575, as of 2026.
Is the BVB Fee Refundable If Refused?
No, it is a non-refundable fee.
Can I Apply for BVB Outside Australia?
No, as per the Department of Home Affairs' rules, you must be in Australia when applying.
How Long Does It Take to Get a BVB After Applying?
It can take anywhere between 1 day and 7 business days.
Can I Include Family Members in One BVB Application?
Yes, but only those members who are part of the family unity and applied for the substantive visa alongside you.
Do I Need to Pay Again If I Apply for a Second BVB?
Yes, that is mandatory.
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