Can a Lawyer Help Me Get a Bridging Visa B While My Partner Visa Is Processing?

Who needs a Bridging Visa B during a partner visa?

A Bridging Visa B is needed by an onshore partner visa applicant who holds a Bridging Visa A, or another eligible bridging visa, and wants to leave Australia and come back while the Subclass 820 is processing. An applicant who still holds a substantive visa that permits travel may not need one until that visa ends. Our article on bridging visas in Australia explains which visa is in effect at each point.

What does a lawyer do on a Bridging Visa B application?

A lawyer on a Bridging Visa B application confirms the applicant's current bridging visa and its conditions, identifies the reason for travel and gathers independent evidence of it, and sets out travel dates that the Department can approve. The application is made online and must be decided before departure. Our article on the Bridging Visa B explains the process and what the Department considers.

What counts as a substantial reason for travel?

A substantial reason for travel is a reason the Department accepts as important enough to justify leaving during processing, such as a family illness or death, an important family event, or significant work or business obligations. The reason should be supported by documents, such as medical letters or official notices. Holiday travel can be harder to support. Our article on the partner visa Bridging Visa B explains how reasons are usually presented.

What if my Bridging Visa B is refused?

Where a Bridging Visa B is refused, the applicant should not travel on the Bridging Visa A, because leaving would end it with no right to return. Options may include a fresh application with better evidence, seeking review where it is available, or changing the travel plan. Our article on a partner visa Bridging Visa B refused explains the options.

What if travel takes longer than the Bridging Visa B allows?

Where travel takes longer than the Bridging Visa B allows, the applicant may be unable to return on it, and the Subclass 820 cannot be granted while the applicant is outside Australia. A further Bridging Visa B cannot be applied for from overseas. The applicant should plan for delays before leaving and get advice quickly if a return is in doubt. Our article on partner visa overseas travel explains the risks.

Can travel during processing affect the relationship evidence?

Travel during processing does not usually harm the relationship evidence, and travelling together can strengthen it. Where only one partner travels, the couple should keep evidence of contact during the separation. Our article on partner visa long-distance relationships explains how periods apart are evidenced.

How does My Migration Lawyers manage Bridging Visa B applications?

My Migration Lawyers manages Bridging Visa B applications by checking the bridging visa on VEVO first, lodging early enough for a decision before the planned departure, and attaching evidence that makes the reason for travel clear on first reading. The firm also reminds the applicant of the return date and of the Department's need to reach the applicant during travel. Applicants can speak with our partner visa lawyers or read about the Subclass 820 visa.