Crucial Visa Error Almost Ended My Australian Study Journey
I nearly had to return home because of a critical mistake made during my student visa renewal! Due to a lack of knowledge, I once stood on the brink of deportation because I wasn't granted a Bridging Visa. Consequently, I had to abandon my old application and submit a new one, costing me an extra 1,600 AUD.
To avoid losing money unnecessarily like I did, everyone planning to renew their Australian student visa must pay close attention to the following points!
1. Mandatory Onshore Application (While Still in Australia)
One of the biggest advantages of applying onshore is that you will be granted a Bridging Visa, which maintains your lawful status while waiting for the new visa outcome.
Advantages:
- No worries if the new visa processing is delayed – you can continue to study and work legally.
- Higher approval rates compared to offshore applications because the case is assessed by the Australian Consulate within the country.
Important Notes on BVA:
- When applying onshore, you will be issued a Bridging Visa A (BVA).
- The BVA takes effect from the day your old visa expires until the new visa decision is made.
- During this period, you are NOT permitted to leave Australia.
If You Need to Travel Overseas:
You must apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB), which is valid for a maximum of one year.
Conditions for BVB:
- Visa application fee: 165 AUD.
- Have a return flight ticket booked.
- Provide a justifiable reason (tourism, visiting family, etc.).
2. What If You Accidentally Apply Offshore?
When applying offshore (outside of Australia):
- You will NOT be granted a Bridging Visa A.
- Your application will be assessed as if you are a completely new student applicant.
- This significantly increases the risk of refusal.
However:
If you return to Australia, you can still apply separately for a Bridging A alongside your visa application without incurring extra fees. But remember: the processing time for the Bridging A is not guaranteed and can be lengthy, so prepare well in advance!
3. What to Do If Your Old Visa is Expiring and You Don't Have a Bridging Visa Yet?
Be bold: Abandon the old application and submit a completely new one!
The reason is that if you fail to submit a new application, you will be forced to leave the country, and this departure could negatively affect your eligibility for the 485 (Graduate Working Visa) after graduation.
Many students worry that abandoning an application looks bad, but it doesn't! The Consulate does not view this as a "blemish" on your record, so handle the situation calmly.
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Credit: Nguyen Khanh Van
