What Is a Bridging Visa A for a Partner Visa?

Who gets a Bridging Visa A with a partner visa?

A Bridging Visa A is usually granted to a partner visa applicant who was in Australia and held a substantive visa, such as a student, work or visitor visa, when a valid Subclass 820/801 application was lodged. It is granted automatically with the application in most cases. An applicant who did not hold a substantive visa at lodgement is in a different position. Our article on the Bridging Visa A explains eligibility, and our article on partner visa without substantive visa explains the other position.

When does the Bridging Visa A start?

The Bridging Visa A starts when the applicant's substantive visa ends, not on the day the partner visa is lodged. Until then the applicant remains on the substantive visa and its conditions. Applicants should check the Department's VEVO service to see which visa is in effect. Our article on the partner visa on a bridging visa explains how the transition works.

Can I work on a Bridging Visa A for a partner visa?

Work on a Bridging Visa A for a partner visa depends on the conditions attached to the bridging visa, which are shown on the grant notice and in VEVO. Applicants should check those conditions rather than assume. Our article on partner visa bridging visa work rights explains how to read them.

Can I travel on a Bridging Visa A?

A Bridging Visa A does not allow travel, and it ceases when the holder leaves Australia. An applicant who needs to travel must apply for a Bridging Visa B before leaving and return within its travel period. Our article on the partner visa Bridging Visa B explains how to apply.

What happens to the Bridging Visa A if the partner visa is refused?

If the partner visa is refused, the Bridging Visa A generally continues for a set period after the decision, and longer if the applicant applies for review at the Administrative Review Tribunal within time. The deadline for review is short and strictly applied. Our page on partner visa refusals explains the review process, and our article on partner visa work after refusal explains the position on work.

Can a Bridging Visa A be cancelled?

A Bridging Visa A can be cancelled in limited circumstances, for example for a breach of its conditions or on character grounds. A cancellation can have serious consequences for the applicant's ability to stay in Australia while the partner visa is decided. Our article on bridging visas in Australia explains the different bridging visas and their risks.

How does My Migration Lawyers manage the bridging visa side of a partner visa?

My Migration Lawyers checks the applicant's visa status before lodgement so the application is made while a substantive visa is held, wherever that is possible, which is what secures the Bridging Visa A. The firm then confirms the bridging visa conditions, advises on work, study and travel, and applies for a Bridging Visa B when a trip is needed. Applicants can ask our partner visa lawyers to plan lodgement around their visa expiry.