Important Changes & Migration Update – Bridging Visa B
Travelling over Christmas? Changes are coming to Bridging Visa B applications
With the Christmas and summer travel period approaching, now is the time for visa applicants on, or moving onto, a Bridging Visa A (BVA) to think about their travel plans.
If you need to leave Australia while your BVA is in effect, you will generally need to apply for and be granted a Bridging Visa B (BVB) before you depart in order to leave and return to Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed. DOHA recommends applying for a BVB between two weeks and three months before your intended travel.
What is changing?
From 30 November 2026, the Department of Home Affairs has advised that newly lodged BVB applications will be assessed more closely against:
- the applicant’s substantial reasons for travel;
- their anticipated travel dates and expected duration; and
- their individual circumstances.
Importantly, BVB travel facilities are expected to be granted for shorter and more targeted periods, aligned to the purpose and timing of the proposed travel, rather than longer travel periods being granted as a matter of course.
Applications lodged before 30 November 2026 will continue to be processed in line with the Department’s recent practice.
What does this mean for applicants?
When applying for a BVB, applicants should clearly explain:
- why they need to travel;
- when they intend to leave and return; and
- how long they expect to be outside Australia.
Supporting evidence should be provided where appropriate.
Importantly, a general statement that you want to take a holiday or visit family may not, by itself, be enough to demonstrate substantial reasons for travel. The application should explain the circumstances behind the proposed trip and, where relevant, provide supporting evidence.
Home Affairs already confirms that the travel period attached to a BVB is defined and that it considers the applicant’s reason for travel when determining that period.
Planning Christmas travel? Don't leave it too late
Our practical advice remains: plan early.
If you are currently on a BVA, or expect your BVA to come into effect before Christmas, and you intend to travel overseas during the holiday period, speak with your Mapien Migration Adviser as early as possible.
You do not need to purchase flights simply to support a BVB application, and non-refundable travel arrangements should be approached carefully before your BVB has been granted.
Connect with us
If you would like further advice on Bridging Visas or any migration matters, please contact us below and one of Migration Specialists will be in touch within 24 hours.