After Lodging Your Application

If you applied within Australia you will automatically be issued with a Bridging Visa class "A" when the application was accepted. This Visa is not evidenced in your passport, and you will not receive notification of it being issued.

If you have lodged your application while you still hold a valid substantive visa, ( eg. Student, Tourist, Working Holiday etc.) this visa will remain in force with all conditions intact until it's expiry date. Only after it has expired will the Bridging Visa become active. It is therefore essential you are aware if you need to leave Australia for a short period of time YOU MUST apply for a bridging Visa class "B". If you have not got a Bridging Visa class "B" you will not be able to re-enter Australia.

If you have lodged your application while you still hold a valid substantive visa your Bridging Visa class "A" will carry the same conditions as your substantive visa.

If you did not have a valid substantive visa at lodgment time the Bridging Visa class "A" will disallow any work. If you can prove financial hardship you may apply on form 1005 to be allowed to work.

While waiting for your application to be decided you MUST NOT allow your passport to expire.