You’ve lodged your Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801) application, your current visa is about to expire, and your Bridging Visa A (BVA) still hasn’t been issued. Sound familiar? This is an increasingly common situation, and it can be understandably stressful.
Why Hasn’t My BVA Been Issued Yet?
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In the past, Bridging Visa A grants were typically issued almost immediately after lodging a valid visa application. However, migration professionals have noted that delays in BVA grants have become increasingly common. These delays appear to be a systemic issue rather than a problem with individual applications.
The Department of Home Affairs processes BVA grants through an automated system, but when that system experiences backlogs or glitches, the grant can be delayed by days or even weeks.
What Happens If My Current Visa Expires Before the BVA Is Granted?
This is the most worrying aspect of BVA delays. If your substantive visa (such as a Subclass 408, 482, or 500) expires before your BVA is granted, you technically become unlawful for the period between your visa expiry and the BVA grant.
However, migration professionals have confirmed that:
- The BVA will still be granted even if your current visa has already ceased
- Being briefly unlawful due to a BVA processing delay should not affect your partner visa application
- The Department is generally aware of these delays and does not penalise applicants for them
What Should You Do While Waiting?
- Call the Department’s hotline to alert them to the situation and request the BVA be expedited
- Document everything: Keep records of when you lodged, when you called, and what you were told
- Don’t travel: Without a valid visa or BVA, you should not leave Australia as you may not be able to return
- Check VEVO regularly: The BVA grant will appear in the Visa Entitlement Verification Online system once it’s processed
- Be cautious about work: If your substantive visa has expired and the BVA hasn’t been granted yet, your work rights may be affected during the gap period
How Long Does It Usually Take?
While BVAs should ideally be granted within a few days of lodgement, migration professionals have reported delays of one to three weeks in some cases. If it’s been more than a week and you haven’t received your BVA, it’s worth following up with the Department.
If you’re in this situation, don’t panic — but do take proactive steps to protect your position. Getting professional advice can help ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
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Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Visa rules and policies can change, and individual circumstances vary. We recommend booking a consultation with one of our registered migration agents to discuss your specific situation.
Reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services
MARA Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2318017
This article is written and reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services, a MARA-registered migration agency based in Australia. As registered agents, we are bound by the Migration Agents Code of Conduct and required to provide accurate, up-to-date advice based on Australian migration legislation. Information is reviewed against the latest Department of Home Affairs policy.
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