The Christmas and New Year period is one of the busiest times for international travel, but if you’re in Australia on a temporary visa, or waiting on a new visa with a bridging visa, your holiday plans may come with extra rules. Failing to check your visa conditions before you head to the airport can lead to cancelled visas, refused re-entry, and costly delays. Before you book your flights or pack your bags, here’s what every temporary and bridging visa holder must confirm.
1. Check Your Visa Conditions Before Leaving
Many temporary visas include specific travel conditions that determine whether you can depart and re-enter Australia. You should carefully review your visa grant notice for conditions such as:
- Travel Facility Expiry Dates Some visas only allow multiple entries until a set date. Leaving after this deadline may stop you re-entering.
If you’re unsure what your visa conditions mean, seek professional advice before making any travel commitments.
2. On a Bridging Visa A? You May Need a Bridging Visa B (BVB)
If you’ve applied for a new visa and currently hold an active (in effect) Bridging Visa A (BVA), you cannot travel, and expect to re-enter Australia, unless you first obtain a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
A BVB allows you to leave Australia while your substantive visa application is still processing, and return lawfully.
Important things to know:
- Processing times vary and can lengthen in December due to Department of Home Affairs holiday closures.
- A BVB has a specified travel period, so ensure it covers your full trip.
- You must be in Australia when applying for a BVB.
3. Book Required Health and Character Checks Early
If your visa application still requires police checks, medical exams, or biometrics, book them before the Christmas rush. Many approved providers operate on limited holiday schedules, and delays can affect your visa processing timeline.
4. Be Aware of Christmas Processing Delays
The Department of Home Affairs and related service providers (e.g., global biometrics centres, overseas embassies) experience slower processing times over December and early January due to:
- Public holidays
- Reduced staffing
- Higher application volumes
- Limited appointment availability
If your visa grant is time-sensitive, such as a Partner, Student, or Visitor visa, it’s wise to lodge early and avoid relying on last-minute approvals.
5. Keep Your Documents Handy When Returning
When you re-enter Australia, ensure you carry:
- Your passport with valid visa
- Your BVB grant notice (if applicable)
- Evidence of ongoing visa applications
- Any required travel or relationship documentation, depending on your visa type
Having these documents ready can reduce delays at the border.
Final Thoughts
Travelling overseas for Christmas can be exciting, but temporary and bridging visa holders must take extra care. The best way to avoid issues is to check your visa conditions early, apply for a Bridging Visa B if needed, and prepare for potential Christmas processing delays. If you’re unsure about your situation, Australian Visa Advice can help you plan a smooth, stress-free trip and ensure your immigration status stays protected.
