Updated April 2025 • 7-minute read
1. Why Bridging Visas Create Confusion
When you lodge a new visa application while already in Australia, you’re usually granted a Bridging Visa (BV) that keeps you lawful until a decision is made.
Because there are five main bridging subclasses (A–E) and a handful of common work-restriction conditions (8101, 8107, 8607, 8573), myths spread quickly. Below we debunk the biggest ones so you—and your employer—can stay compliant and worry-free.
2. Top Myths vs. Facts
| Myth | Reality | Take-away for visa-holders & employers |
|---|---|---|
| 1. “All bridging visas let you work automatically.” | Only some BVs come with unrestricted work. Many are issued with condition 8101 (no work) or 8107/8607 (employer-specific). You may need to apply for a Bridging Visa A with work rights or seek a variation. | Check the grant notice. If condition 8101 appears, file Form 1005 (or apply online) with evidence of financial hardship. |
| 2. “Bridging Visa B is the best way to keep working.” | A BVB allows you to depart and return to Australia, but it usually copies the work limitations of your current BV. Travel rights ≠ work rights. | Apply for work-right removal before requesting travel authority. |
| 3. “If I have a BVA, I can start a new job straight away.” | You can only work if no restrictive condition is listed. Starting work in breach can trigger visa cancellation and future refusals. | Employers must sight the BV grant notice and check VEVO to confirm conditions. |
| 4. “A bridging visa ends as soon as a new visa is refused.” | Generally true unless you appeal to the AAT within the permitted timeframe—the BV continues during merits review. | Lodging a valid review on time keeps work rights alive under the same conditions. |
| 5. “Medicare is impossible on a bridging visa.” | Many BVA/BVB holders awaiting permanent or certain temporary visas (e.g., 485, 820) are eligible for Medicare. BV C, D, E holders usually aren’t. | Present your BV grant and Acknowledgement of Application when enrolling. |
| 6. “My employer can’t sponsor me while I’m on a BV.” | You can be nominated for a 482/186 while holding a BV. Work rights remain governed by current conditions until the new visa or a bridging visa with condition 8607 is granted. | Employer should file nomination + visa together to minimise limbo time. |
3. Quick Reference: Bridging Visa Snapshot
| Subclass | Typical Scenario | Work Rights by Default* |
|---|---|---|
| BVA (010) | Awaiting decision on an on-shore application | Same as previous substantive visa or 8101 (check grant) |
| BVB (020) | Need to travel while on BVA | Mirrors BVA’s conditions |
| BVC (030) | Applied while unlawfully in Australia | Usually 8101 (no work) |
| BVD (040) | Arrived without a visa & applied quickly | 8101; often short validity |
| BVE (050/051) | Last-resort or after refusal | 8573 (work-related limits); often requires individual permission |
*Always confirm on the grant notice.
4. How to Add or Vary Work Rights
- Prepare evidence of financial need: bank statements, weekly budget, job offers.
- File Form 1005 (paper) or online request in ImmiAccount.
- Explain “Compelling Need to Work”: highlight skills, community ties, or hardship.
- Await decision—average 2-4 weeks. If urgent, attach employer letter explaining start date.
5. Employer Compliance Checklist
- Verify BV subclass and conditions on VEVO.
- Keep copies of grant notices in HR files.
- If condition 8107/8607 applies, ensure duties and location match the primary visa.
- Schedule calendar reminders for appeal or visa-decision dates.
6. FAQs
Q: Can I freelance on a bridging visa with work rights?
A: Only if your conditions permit “work” generally (no 8107/8607) and your ABN activity aligns with Australian tax law.
Q: Do student-visa work limits carry over to a BVA?
A: Yes—if the BVA is granted while your substantive Student visa is still valid, the same 48-hours-per-fortnight cap re-applies (unless waived by specific pandemic concessions).
Q: Will my bridging visa be cancelled if I lose my job?
A: Not automatically. But if you held a BV with condition 8607 tied to that employer, you must find another sponsor or vary conditions.
7. Key Take-aways
- Read the grant notice—it’s your rulebook.
- Work rights are not automatic; apply early to vary conditions if needed.
- Employers: VEVO checks + record-keeping keep you safe from sanctions.
- Timely appeals preserve your lawful status and existing conditions.
8. Need Personalised Guidance?
PRAEVO Lawyers has helped students, families, and businesses navigate bridging-visa limbo for over 15 years. If you need:
- A work-rights variation letter,
- Employer compliance advice, or
- A strategy to transition from BV to permanent residence,
Contact us today.
📞 (03) 9671 4554 | ✉️ info@praevo.com.au | 🌐 praevo.com.au/bridging-visa-help
Because staying lawful shouldn’t be a guessing game.
Disclaimer: This guide is general information only and not legal advice. Always seek professional advice for your situation.