If you are waiting on an employer sponsored visa and need to travel overseas, there is some positive news on Bridging Visa B processing.

At the 6 August 2026 MIA and Department of Home Affairs stakeholder meeting, the Department advised that outstanding BVB applications linked to employer sponsored visas had fallen from more than 2,000 in early July to fewer than 500.

Why This Matters

A Bridging Visa B (BVB) allows eligible bridging visa holders to leave Australia and return during an approved travel period while waiting for their substantive visa application to be processed.

Without a valid BVB, leaving Australia while your Bridging Visa A is in effect can cause it to cease, potentially disrupting your visa and travel plans.

What Has Improved?

The significant reduction in outstanding applications suggests BVB processing pressure for employer sponsored applicants is easing.

The Department also advised that longer BVB travel periods are being granted in some employer sponsored cases, which may reduce the need for repeated BVB applications.

This does not mean every applicant will receive a longer travel period. BVB travel facilities are assessed based on individual circumstances.

Who Should Pay Attention?

This may be relevant if you:

• are waiting for an employer sponsored visa decision
• currently hold a bridging visa
• need to travel overseas while your application is being processed
• are planning travel around work, family or other commitments

This can include eligible applicants connected with Subclass 482 Skills in Demand, Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme or Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visas, depending on their individual circumstances.

Planning to Travel?

Do not assume you can leave Australia and return simply because you have a visa application in progress.

Before booking travel, check your current visa status and conditions through VEVO, and make sure you understand whether you need a BVB and the travel period granted.

Waiting on an employer sponsored visa and planning overseas travel? Get advice before you leave Australia to avoid unnecessary complications with your visa status.

The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.

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