If you’re planning to make Australia your long-term home, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out how to extend your visa until you secure Permanent Residency (PR). The journey can be confusing, especially with so many visa subclasses, eligibility requirements, and migration rules. But don’t worry—we’ll break it down step by step.
Many migrants enter Australia on temporary visas—like student visas, graduate visas, skilled worker visas, or partner visas. Since PR processing can take months (sometimes even years), you’ll often need a bridging visa or extension strategy to legally stay in Australia until your PR application is approved.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common visa extension options:
If you apply for a Permanent Residency visa (like Skilled Independent 189, Skilled Nominated 190, or Partner Visa 801/100) while on a valid visa, you’ll usually be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA).
This allows you to remain in Australia lawfully while your PR is being processed.
If you need to travel overseas, you may also apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB).
Many international students transition from a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
This gives them work rights and more time to meet the requirements for PR, such as skilled work experience.
If your PR application is not ready yet, you may apply for another Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa 491 or a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa 482, depending on eligibility.
These visas allow you to stay longer while gaining work experience and waiting for PR pathways to open.
If you’re in a genuine relationship with an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you may apply for a Partner Visa (Subclass 820/801 or 309/100).
While the permanent stage (801/100) is being processed, you’re usually given a bridging visa to stay lawfully in Australia.
Some people extend their stay through employer sponsorships, like:
Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186 – PR)
While waiting for the PR decision, you may hold a bridging visa if the application was lodged onshore.
Always apply before your current visa expires – overstaying can seriously affect your PR chances.
Keep track of visa conditions (like work limits on student visas).
Get migration advice if unsure—registered migration agents can guide you based on your individual case.
Use bridging visas effectively – they are the most common way to legally remain in Australia during PR processing.
Can I stay in Australia while waiting for PR?
Yes, you can stay on a bridging visa while your PR application is being processed, provided you lodged it while holding a valid visa.
What if my visa expires before I apply for PR?
You must apply for another visa (temporary or bridging) before expiry. If you overstay, you risk a ban from re-entering Australia.
Can I work on a bridging visa?
Most bridging visas (BVA linked to PR applications) come with full work rights, but some may have restrictions.
Is it possible to travel while on a bridging visa?
Only with a Bridging Visa B (BVB)—a BVA does not allow international travel.
How long does it take to get PR after applying?
Processing can take anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, depending on the visa subclass and demand.
Can I switch from a visitor visa to PR?
Yes, but you may face restrictions depending on your visa conditions (e.g., “No Further Stay” conditions).
Extending your visa until you get PR in Australia is a common step for many migrants. Whether through a bridging visa, student-to-graduate transition, partner visa, or employer sponsorship, the key is to plan ahead and apply on time. If you’re unsure which pathway is right for you, consulting a registered migration agent can make the process much smoother.
