Bridging Visa C — Subclass 030
Bridging Visa C (BVC)
The Bridging Visa C is granted where a person lodges a substantive visa application after their previous visa has already expired, resulting in a period of unlawful status. The BVC regularises status while the application is processed, but carries more restrictive conditions than a BVA.
How the BVC arises
A BVC arises when a person who is already unlawful — meaning their substantive visa has expired without a new application having been lodged while it was valid — subsequently lodges a substantive visa application. The BVC prevents further accrual of unlawful time while the application is determined.
Unlike a BVA, the BVC cannot be converted or upgraded. It is a lower-tier bridging visa because it is triggered by a period of unlawfulness. The BVC cannot be used to apply for a BVB, meaning no international travel is available under any circumstances while holding only a BVC.
The BVC is subject to condition 8101 as a default, which means no work is permitted. An exception exists where work rights are automatically available for certain visa applications such as subclasses 189, 190, and 186. In all other cases, work rights must be applied for separately by demonstrating compelling financial need.
BVC conditions
No travel rights
Departing Australia on a BVC causes the visa to cease. Re-entry is not possible. A BVC holder cannot apply for a BVB. International travel is not available.
No work rights by default
Condition 8101 applies to most BVCs, prohibiting work. An exception applies automatically for certain skilled visa applications. All other BVC holders must apply for a new BVC with work rights by demonstrating financial hardship.
Cannot be upgraded to a BVA
A BVC cannot be converted to a BVA. The distinction between the two reflects the lawful or unlawful status at the time of lodgement and is fixed.
Reporting conditions may apply
Some BVC holders with complex immigration histories may be subject to reporting conditions requiring check-ins with the Department at specified intervals.
030
Subclass
8101
Default condition, no work
No travel
BVB not available to BVC holders
No upgrade
Cannot convert to BVA
Why instruct Visa Plan?
Work rights applications
Where condition 8101 applies and work is needed, we prepare the financial hardship case required to vary the BVC and obtain work rights.
Unlawful period consequences
Unlawful periods carry Schedule 3 consequences for future visa applications. We advise on the implications of any unlawful period and how they may affect your current application.
Status regularisation
If you are currently unlawful and considering lodging a substantive application, we advise on whether that application is viable, what the BVC conditions will be, and the risks involved before anything is lodged.
Bridging Visa C 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.