PR & Visa Pathways
Bridging Visa A (BVA) Australia: Conditions, Work Rights & Travel
What a Bridging Visa A actually lets you do — work rights, study, travel overseas, when it activates, and how to apply for a BVB if you need to leave Australia.
Published 2026-05-16 · 9 min read
A Bridging Visa A (subclass 010, BVA) keeps you lawfully in Australia while you wait for a new substantive visa to be decided. For international students, BVAs are most commonly granted after lodging a 485 graduate visa, a 500 student visa renewal, or a partner visa.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This is general information, not migration advice. Every BVA carries the conditions of your previous substantive visa unless Home Affairs grants different ones. Check your VEVO record.
When Does a BVA Activate?
A BVA is granted the moment you lodge an eligible onshore application — but it usually does not come into effect until your current visa expires. While your old visa is still valid, you use that visa's conditions.
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What Are Your Work Rights on a BVA?
It depends on the visa you applied for:
| Underlying application | Default work right |
|---|---|
| 485 Graduate Visa | Full work rights |
| 500 Student Visa renewal | Inherits student visa work limit (48 hrs/fortnight in 2026) |
| 820 Partner Visa | Full work rights |
| Most others | Either full rights or you must apply for Form 1005 |
If your BVA has "No Work" stamped, you can apply for the "financial hardship" work right using Form 1005 — supply bank statements showing genuine need.
Can You Travel Overseas on a BVA?
No. A BVA does not allow re-entry to Australia. If you leave, your BVA ceases and you become unlawful on return.
To travel, apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB, subclass 020):
- Apply online via ImmiAccount — fee is around $190 in 2026
- Show a genuine reason (family emergency, work, conference, holiday)
- Specify your travel window (max 12 months)
- Return before the BVB expires or risk going unlawful
Study on a BVA
You can usually study, but you cannot access Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) or HECS-HELP. Most students continue paying international fees until their new substantive visa is granted.
How Long Does a BVA Last?
Indefinitely — until 28–35 days after your substantive visa is decided. If you withdraw your application or it's refused, your BVA ceases shortly after.
What Happens If Your Visa Is Refused?
- A new BVA (often a BVC or BVE) may be granted if you appeal to the AAT
- You may lose work rights
- You typically have 35 days to leave or appeal
Practical Tips
- Print your BVA grant letter and keep it on your phone
- Use VEVO to show employers your work rights
- Don't book international flights until BVB is granted
- Renew your Medicare or OSHC to match the BVA period
Last updated 16 May 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work on a Bridging Visa A?
It depends on the visa you've applied for. Most BVAs granted after a 485 or partner visa application carry full work rights. BVAs after a 500 student visa inherit the student work cap (48 hours per fortnight in 2026).
Can I travel overseas on a BVA?
No. A Bridging Visa A does not permit re-entry to Australia. You must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB, subclass 020) before leaving the country.
How long does a Bridging Visa A last?
A BVA stays in effect until 28–35 days after a decision is made on your substantive visa application — whether it is granted, refused, or withdrawn.
Does a BVA give me Medicare?
No. A BVA does not provide Medicare access on its own. Most international students must keep their OSHC active for the entire bridging period.