You have been living in Australia for a few years. Your PR application is under process, your job is going well, and suddenly you need to visit India. Perhaps there is a family wedding, an emergency at home, or an important reason that cannot wait.
But there is one question you should answer before booking your flight: Can you return to Australia after leaving the country on a bridging visa?
For many Indian migrants, the answer depends on the type of bridging visa they hold. Australia's Bridging Visa B (Subclass 020) is particularly important in such situations.
Why is a Bridging Visa B needed?
Consider someone who has applied for Australian PR and is currently staying in the country on a Bridging Visa A (BVA). Their application is still being processed, but they now need to visit India.
Here is where things can go wrong. A BVA generally allows its holder to remain in Australia while waiting for a visa decision. However, it does not provide permission to leave and return. In most cases, the BVA ceases when the person leaves Australia.
A Bridging Visa B offers another option. It allows eligible applicants to travel overseas and return to Australia within the dates approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
Who can apply?
The visa is not available to everyone with a pending Australian application. Applicants generally need to be in Australia, hold a BVA or BVB, and have previously held a substantive visa.
They must also have a valid pending application for another substantive visa or meet the relevant judicial review requirements. The Department expects applicants to explain why they need to travel.
Supporting documents may be required depending on the circumstances.
