Bridging Visa A

[cssaoz]

Hello Everyone,

I am currently in Australia and have lodged my application for an Australian Sponsored Overseas Student visa (Subclass 881).

I have been granted a bridging visa A and been told that there are no work or study conditions attached to it, which means that I have unlimited work and study rights (in an automatic email notification).

However, in other information I found about Bridging Visa A's it said that they generally have the same conditions as the previous substantive visa.

As my previous visa had the condition "no work"- I am wondering if I should rely on the automated email information or the other info from the DIMA website?

Also, if I can work, does anyone has any info on whether I would be classified as a non-resident or resident for tax purposes? I was told that international students are often classified as residents?

Any help would be great!!

Thanks

Casey

[Fiona]

Hi Casey,

I can see how this would appear to be a contradiction, however in your case because you are applying for a Class DE (Skilled-Australian Sponsored Overseas Student (Residence)) visa, your corresponding Bridging A visa is granted without any work condition, irrespective of any work condition attached to the substantive visa held at the time of application. Therefore- you should rely on the information you received from DIAC by email.

Regarding whether you are considered a resident for taxation purposes, I would suggest you contact the ATO (www.ato.gov.au) for information on this matter.

Kind regards,

Fiona Carre

Registered Migration Agent

Gold Coast, Australia

[cssaoz]

Thanks Fiona,

I've been anxiously waiting until today (because my student visa expires today) so I could check my status on the online entitlement thing.

But it says:

Visa conditions The visa holder cannot work in Australia.

From what I can gather, I think I can apply for a new bridging visa with work permission if i can show financial hardship?

Does anyone know how this is possible and how it might affect my permanant residence application?

Thanks

Casey

[Fiona]

Hi Casey,

You would need to double check your Bridging visa status. If you would like some more specific professional advice, feel free to contact me at carres[at]optusnet[dot]com[dot]au.

Regards,

Fiona

[Guest Bronwyn]

Here is a link to the page from the Australian tax Office. You can determine whether or not you want to be classed as a resident for tax purposes after reading through it.

www.ato.gov.au/individuals/pathway.asp?pc=001/002/012&mfp=001&mnu=29565#001_002_012