Can I Apply for an Australian Permanent Visa While on a Tourist Visa in Australia?

A person who wants to apply for an Australian Permanent Visa may apply while on a tourist visa. If the tourist visa will run out while the decision is being made, the person may apply for a bridging visa.

Bridging Visa

There are several types of bridging visas. The one applicable to the tourist who wants to apply for a permanent visa is Bridging Visa A.

Bridging Visa A

This visa is for a person who wants to apply for a substantive visa. A permanent resident visa is a substantive visa.

How to Apply

If applying for a substantive visa, that application itself will serve as an application for Bridging Visa A.

Conditions and Restrictions

Since working is not allowed on the tourist visa, that prohibition will continue on the bridging visa. But a person can apply for permission to work and it can be granted to those who can show financial hardship or who are applying for a skills visa with a sponsoring employer.

Travel and Re-entering Australia

To do this, one must apply for Bridging Visa B and give the reasons for travel.

References

• Bridging Visa booklet
• Department of Immigration and Citizenship

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