Bridging Visa A — Subclass 010
Bridging Visa A (BVA)
The Bridging Visa A is the most common bridging visa in Australia. It is granted automatically when a valid substantive visa application is lodged while the applicant holds a current visa. It activates when the substantive visa expires and maintains lawful status until the new application is decided.
How the BVA works
The BVA is granted at the same time as a substantive visa application is lodged. It is a dormant visa — it does not activate immediately. It sits in reserve and only comes into effect when the current substantive visa expires. Until that point, the applicant remains on their substantive visa.
Once active, the BVA remains valid until the substantive application is decided. If the application is granted, the BVA ceases automatically. If the application is refused, the BVA continues for 35 days from the date of receiving the decision, allowing the applicant time to depart or lodge a review application.
The BVA does not permit international travel. Departing Australia while holding only a BVA causes the visa to cease immediately. The applicant cannot return to Australia on the BVA. A Bridging Visa B must be applied for and granted before any departure.
BVA conditions
No travel rights
Departing Australia on a BVA causes the visa to cease. Re-entry on the BVA is not possible. Apply for a BVB before any international travel.
Work rights
Work rights on a BVA generally mirror those of the preceding substantive visa. If the substantive visa permitted work, the BVA typically does as well. Verify conditions via VEVO.
Study permitted
Study is generally permitted on a BVA unless specifically restricted by a condition attached to the visa. Check the grant notice or VEVO for specific conditions.
35-day rule on refusal
If the substantive application is refused, the BVA ceases 35 days after the date the refusal decision is received. A review application may extend lawful status in some circumstances.
010
Subclass
Automatic
Granted on application lodgement
No travel
BVB required before departure
35 days
After refusal decision
Why instruct Visa Plan?
Conditions verification
BVA conditions are not uniform. We verify the exact work and travel conditions attached to your BVA and advise on what you can and cannot do while your application is pending.
BVB applications before travel
Travelling on a BVA without a granted BVB is a critical and irreversible error. We manage BVB applications before any departure is planned.
Refusal and review advice
If your substantive application is refused, the 35-day window is limited. We advise immediately on review options and the steps required to maintain lawful status.
Bridging Visa A information is sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and is current as at April 2026. Conditions and eligibility criteria are subject to change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.