Applications from 30 November 2026 for employer sponsored visas
Take action If you are planning to travel overseas while waiting for your employer-sponsored visa, here’s what you need to know.
The Department of Home Affairs has announced an important change to the way Bridging Visa B (BVB) applications linked to employer-sponsored visa applications will be assessed from 30 November 2026.
If you are currently in Australia on a bridging visa while waiting for a decision on your employer-sponsored visa, and you are planning to travel overseas, this update may affect your travel plans.
What is changing?
From 30 November 2026, the Department will take a more individualised approach when assessing newly lodged BVB applications.
In recent times, some applicants have been granted relatively long travel periods. Going forward, BVB travel facilities will be granted for shorter periods, based on the actual purpose of travel, intended travel dates and personal circumstances.
This means applicants should no longer assume they will automatically receive an extended travel facility.
You will need to provide clear reasons for travelling
One of the key points in this update is the importance of demonstrating substantial reasons for leaving and returning to Australia.
Simply stating that you wish to go on a holiday or visit family may not be enough on its own. Your bridging visa application could be refused.
Applicants should clearly explain:
- Why they need to travel overseas.
- When they intend to leave Australia and return.
- How long they expect to be overseas.
- Any relevant personal circumstances supporting their travel plans.
Where appropriate, supporting documents should also be provided.
For example, if you need to travel to visit a seriously ill family member, providing relevant supporting information may assist the Department in assessing your application.
When should you apply?
The Department recommends lodging your BVB application between four weeks and three months before your intended travel date.
It is also important to remember that lodging a BVB application does not guarantee approval.
We strongly recommend avoiding non-refundable flights or other expensive travel arrangements until your BVB has been granted.
What if you have already lodged your BVB application?
If your BVB application was lodged before 30 November 2026, the Department has confirmed that it will continue to be processed in line with its recent practices.
There is no need to provide additional documents for applications already lodged unless the Department specifically requests them.
Our advice to visa applicants
If you are waiting for an employer-sponsored visa decision and intend to travel overseas, it is important to plan ahead.
Make sure your travel reasons are clearly explained, your intended travel dates are realistic, and any relevant supporting information is included with your application.
Remember, a Bridging Visa B is not automatically granted simply because you wish to travel overseas. Each application must satisfy the relevant visa requirements.
Although the underlying legal requirements have not changed, the Department’s approach to assessing travel periods and supporting information will become more closely aligned with those requirements.
Need assistance with your Bridging Visa B?
If you are planning overseas travel while your employer-sponsored visa application is being processed, our team can assist you in understanding the requirements and preparing your BVB application. It will be important to take action now if you have a lodged application and have future plans in place.
Contact our office before finalising your travel plans so we can guide you through the process and help minimise the risk of unexpected travel complications.
Disclaimer: This newsletter provides general information only and should not be taken as migration advice specific to your circumstances. Visa decisions remain at the discretion of the Department of Home Affairs.