Bridging Visa B Changes From 30 November 2026: What Employer-Sponsored Visa Applicants Need to Know
7 November 2026
If you are waiting for a decision on an employer-sponsored visa in Australia and need to travel overseas, changes to how Bridging Visa B (BVB) applications are assessed may affect your travel plans.
From 30 November 2026, the Department of Home Affairs will take a more tailored approach to assessing BVB applications associated with employer-sponsored visas, with a greater focus on the reasons for travel and the length of time applicants need to spend overseas.
What is changing for Bridging Visa B applications?
A Bridging Visa B (subclass 020) allows eligible visa applicants to leave and return to Australia while waiting for a decision on their substantive visa application.
The Department has confirmed two key changes to its assessment approach:
Shorter travel periods: BVB travel facilities will generally be granted for shorter periods, based on the purpose and expected duration of travel, rather than longer periods being granted as a matter of course.
Greater scrutiny of travel reasons: Applicants will need to clearly explain why they wish to travel overseas and provide relevant supporting information.
Importantly, the legal requirements for a BVB have not changed. The Department is adjusting how it applies the existing requirements.
What counts as a substantial reason for travel?
To be granted a Bridging Visa B, applicants must demonstrate substantial reasons for leaving and returning to Australia.
The Department has clarified that simply stating an intention to take a holiday or visit family may not be sufficient without further explanation.
For example, if you need to travel overseas to visit a seriously ill family member, supporting medical documents and details of your proposed travel may assist your application.
Each application will be assessed on its individual circumstances, including the purpose, timing, and expected duration of travel.
When should you apply for a Bridging Visa B?
The Department recommends lodging your BVB application between two weeks and three months before your intended travel date.
You do not need to purchase flights before applying. In fact, applicants should carefully consider the risks of making non-refundable travel arrangements before their BVB is granted.
If you lodge your BVB application before 30 November 2026, the Department has confirmed that it will continue to be assessed in line with recent practice. You do not need to provide additional evidence for an existing application unless specifically requested.
Travelling while waiting for an employer-sponsored visa
If you have applied for an employer-sponsored visa, such as the Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa or Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa, it is important to understand your current visa status before travelling overseas.
A Bridging Visa A does not permit overseas travel and re-entry. If you are relying on a bridging visa while your application is being processed, you may need to obtain a Bridging Visa B before departing Australia.
You should also check the travel validity period carefully. A BVB does not necessarily allow you to travel for the entire period your substantive visa application remains under assessment.
Need assistance with a Bridging Visa B?
At Zest Legal, we assist individuals and businesses with Australian immigration matters, including employer-sponsored visas and bridging visa applications.
If you are waiting for a visa decision and need to travel overseas, we can help you understand your options, prepare your BVB application, and address the supporting evidence required for your circumstances.
Contact Zest Legal to discuss your circumstances before making travel arrangements.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration requirements and Departmental procedures may change.
