Subclass 020
Protection visa applicants can no longer apply for a Bridging visa B from 1 November 2026
In short: from 1 November 2026, people who have applied for a Protection visa (subclass 866) can no longer apply for a Bridging visa B (BVB) to travel overseas and come back to Australia. What changed A BVB lets some bridging visa holders leave and return to Australia during a set travel period. Protection visa applicants are now excluded. Home Affairs says: • BVB applications lodged before 1 November 2026 will still be processed. • If you already have a BVB and its travel facility has expired, you cannot apply for another BVB or ask for more travel. • Applications for a Bridging visa A, B or C must be made online through ImmiAccount or the online webform. Who it affects People in Australia with a Protection visa application, review or court matter in progress who want to travel overseas. Key dates • In force from: 1 November 2026 • Shown on the official page: 1 November 2026 Where to check The official Bridging visa B page is linked below. This is general information, not migration advice.