Recent government data reveals that Australia is experiencing the highest number of bridging visa holders in its history, highlighting the ongoing challenges within the immigration system.
The increase in bridging visa holders underscores issues related to visa processing delays and a backlog of applications, which have left many individuals in limbo regarding their immigration status.
As of August 1, 2022, the Australian government has streamlined the application process for Bridging Visas A (BVA), B (BVB), and C (BVC) by removing the option to apply in person or via paper forms.
All applications must now be submitted online through the ImmiAccount system. This shift aims to improve efficiency in processing and managing visa applications.
Impact on Temporary Graduate Visa Holders: Starting July 1, 2024, significant changes will also affect Temporary Graduate visa holders.
These reforms include reduced post-study work rights and stricter eligibility criteria, which may compel many to rely on bridging visas while they navigate their immigration options.
The Australian government is implementing several reforms across various visa categories, including a new requirement for student visa applicants to apply from outside Australia.
This change is expected to impact numerous individuals currently on bridging visas who were previously eligible to apply from within the country.
Challenges Faced by Bridging Visa Holders
Many individuals on bridging visas face uncertainty due to lengthy processing times and complex immigration policies. Reports have surfaced of families experiencing severe hardships, including homelessness, as they await resolution of their visa status.
These situations highlight the human aspect of Australia’s immigration challenges and the urgent need for policy reforms.
These developments indicate a critical juncture for Australia’s immigration system. There is increasing scrutiny of how bridging visas are managed amidst broader changes affecting various visa categories.
There are many struggle stories of people with bridging visas:
Gurpreet Singh’s Struggle with Visa Delays:
Gurpreet Singh, a Melbourne resident for 14 years, recently faced a devastating situation when a visa processing delay rendered him an unlawful migrant.
Despite submitting his renewal application on time, the immigration department’s failure to process it in a timely manner led to his loss of work rights and subsequent homelessness.
Singh and his family were forced to live in a tent until they received temporary housing assistance from their local Sikh community.
Singh’s case illustrates the harsh realities many face due to systemic issues in the visa processing system. Immigration lawyers highlight the need for urgent reforms to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Sukhdeep Kaur’s Limbo:
Sukhdeep Kaur has been living in Australia since 2015 but has been unable to visit her ailing mother due to restrictions imposed by her bridging visa.
While she can work, she cannot leave Australia without jeopardizing her visa status, which would end if she travelled.
Since June 2023, Kaur has been renewing her bridging visa every three months while awaiting a ministerial intervention that could secure her permanent residency.
This ongoing uncertainty has caused significant mental strain for Kaur and her family as they navigate the complexities of Australia’s immigration system.
The Broader Impact of Bridging Visa Rules
Experts warn that many migrants on bridging visas face precarious situations due to restrictive conditions. While some bridging visas allow work, others do not, leaving holders vulnerable to exploitation and financial hardship.
The stigma associated with holding a bridging visa further complicates their integration into Australian society, as employers may hesitate to hire individuals without stable immigration status.
The emotional toll of living under such uncertainty is profound, as many migrants report feelings of isolation and despair while waiting for decisions on their residency applications.
These stories highlight the significant challenges individuals face in bridging visas in Australia, emphasizing the urgent need for reform within the immigration system to provide more stability and support for those affected.
