Can I travel to Australia while waiting for my student visa?

If you currently hold a visitor visa for Australia and have applied for a student visa, here's how the situation typically works regarding travel and bridging visas:

1. Travel to Australia on a Visitor Visa: You can travel to Australia on your visitor visa while your student visa application is being processed. However, you must ensure that you comply with the conditions of your visitor visa, including the duration of stay allowed and any other specific conditions attached to your visa.

2. Bridging Visa Consideration: If your visitor visa expires while you are in Australia and your student visa application is still under consideration, you may be eligible for a Bridging Visa A (BVA) or Bridging Visa B (BVB), depending on your circumstances:

o Bridging Visa A (BVA): This visa generally comes into effect automatically once your current substantive visa (in this case, your visitor visa) expires and while your student visa application is being processed. BVA allows you to stay lawfully in Australia during this period and may have work rights attached depending on your situation.

o Bridging Visa B (BVB): If you need to travel outside Australia while your student visa application is being processed and your BVA does not have travel rights, you can apply for a BVB. BVB allows you to leave and return to Australia during the specified travel period.

3. Conditions and Requirements: It's crucial to check the specific conditions and requirements of your visitor visa and any bridging visas that might apply in your situation. Always ensure that you comply with visa conditions and maintain lawful status while in Australia.

4. Notification and Communication: Keep your contact details updated with the Department of Home Affairs and monitor any communications regarding your visa application, including instructions related to bridging visas.

To summarize, yes, you can travel to Australia on your visitor visa while waiting for your student visa application to be processed. If your visitor visa expires before your student visa is granted, you may receive a Bridging Visa A (BVA) automatically, which will allow you to stay lawfully in Australia during the processing period. Always check with the Department of Home Affairs or consult a qualified migration agent for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.