The Department of Home Affairs has advised that it will change how it will assess Bridging Visa B (BVB) applications lodged from 30 November 2026. Legal requirements remain unchanged, but applicants should expect shorter travel periods tailored to the purpose, timing and expected duration of their travel. With the holidays approaching, we recommend applying early to allow enough time for processing.
A Bridging Visa B (BVB) permits eligible bridging visa holders leave and re-enter Australia within a set travel period while their substantive visa application is processed. Recently, the Department has been granting travel periods of up to 12 months to account for lengthy processing times across most visa programs.
From 30 November 2026:
The Department recommends applying for a BVB between two weeks and three months before planned travel and cautions against making non-refundable travel arrangements before a decision is made.
Employers should account for this change when planning business travel and mobility for employees on bridging visas, particularly those travelling internationally while awaiting a substantive visa decision.
Employees should not assume a BVB will allow an extended period for multiple trips. Applications for business travel should clearly explain its purpose, proposed dates and why it is necessary. BVB holders must carefully check their approved travel period. If it expires while they are overseas, the BVB ceases and cannot be used to re-enter Australia.
Plan early, especially for multiple overseas trips or uncertain travel dates, as a shorter travel period may mean applying for another BVB before a later trip. With the holidays approaching, apply well in advance to allow time for processing. Vialto can assist with BVB applications and related advice.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Cherie Wright
Partner & Principal Solicitor
Stacey Tsui
Partner & Principal Solicitor
Arathi Tekkam
Director
Ben Reid
Director
John O’Brien
Director
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