Visa Expiry
Your visa is expiring — don't wait until it's too late.
Overview
If your visa is about to expire or has already expired, you need to act immediately. Once your visa expires without a valid application lodged, you become an unlawful non-citizen in Australia. This can result in detention, removal, and a re-entry ban that can last 3 years or more. The good news is that in many cases, there are options available — but only if you act quickly.
If your visa has not yet expired, the most important thing is to lodge a new visa application before the expiry date. In most cases, lodging a valid application before your current visa expires will grant you a Bridging Visa A (BVA), which allows you to remain lawfully in Australia while your new application is being processed.
If your visa has already expired, you may be able to apply for a Bridging Visa E (BVE) to regularise your status while you make arrangements to depart or lodge a new visa application (if eligible). However, BVE options are limited and time-sensitive — the longer you remain unlawful, the fewer options you have.
Overstaying your visa can have serious long-term consequences, including a 3-year exclusion period that prevents you from being granted most visas to return to Australia. In some cases, this can be extended to a permanent exclusion. I can advise on your specific situation and the best course of action.
Key Facts
How I Work — Step by Step
Urgent Status Check
I check your current visa status and identify exactly how much time you have.
Options Assessment
I identify all available visa options and advise on the best pathway.
Application Lodgement
I lodge the most appropriate application as quickly as possible.
Bridging Visa
I ensure you have a valid bridging visa to remain lawful while your application is processed.
Ongoing Management
I manage your application and any compliance issues with the Department.
What I Do
- Assess your current visa status and identify all available options
- Lodge a new visa application before your current visa expires (if possible)
- Apply for a Bridging Visa E if your visa has already expired
- Advise on the implications of overstaying, including exclusion periods
- Prepare applications to waive the 3-year exclusion period where possible
- Represent you in any dealings with the Department of Home Affairs
Who Is This For?
- ›Visa holders whose visa is about to expire and who need to lodge a new application urgently
- ›People whose visa has already expired and who are now unlawful in Australia
- ›People who have overstayed their visa and need advice on their options
- ›People who are subject to a re-entry ban and wish to return to Australia
Recent Case Outcome
I recently assisted a client who had inadvertently overstayed his student visa by a few weeks due to a family emergency. We successfully argued that his circumstances were compelling and compassionate, securing him a Bridging Visa E and avoiding a re-entry ban. We then prepared a detailed submission to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) which ultimately led to the grant of a new substantive visa.
* Details anonymized to protect client confidentiality.
Common questions about
What happens if my visa expires while I am in Australia?+
Can I still apply for a visa after my current visa has expired?+
What is a Bridging Visa E?+
What happens if my Australian visa expires while I'm still in the country?+
I've overstayed my Australian visa. Can I apply for another visa?+
Your Visa Was Refused — What Now?
I wrote a free guide covering the 5 most common refusal reasons, your appeal options, and the deadlines you cannot miss. It is the same advice I give clients in their first meeting.
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The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Thoughts only — not legal advice.