A Bridging Visa F (BVF) is used only for people who police have identified as suspected victims of human trafficking, slavery or slavery-like practices, such as forced labour, debt bondage or forced marriage, and their immediate family. It gives lawful status and access to support while the person recovers and, if they choose, helps with a criminal justice process. This page explains how it works.
Key points
- A BVF is only for suspected victims of human trafficking, slavery or slavery-like practices identified by police, and their immediate family.
- The process starts with a referral from police, not an application by the person alone.
- There is no fee.
- The first BVF usually lasts up to 45 days. A further BVF can bring the total to 90 days in some cases.
- A person helping a criminal justice process can stay until 28 days after the assistance notice is revoked.
If you or someone you know may be a victim, help is available. Contact the Australian Federal Police on 131 237 or through its online report form, or call 000 in an emergency.
Who can get a BVF
The person must have been identified by police as a suspected victim of human trafficking, slavery or a slavery-like practice. Police also confirm that suitable care, safety and welfare arrangements are in place. Immediate family members, such as a partner or dependent children, can be included in a combined application. A first BVF does not require the person to agree to help an investigation.
A BVF is generally granted to people who do not hold a valid visa. A suspected victim who already holds a visa, such as a student visa, can usually get support without a BVF.
The stages of a BVF
| Purpose | How long |
|---|---|
| Initial recovery and reflection | Up to 45 days |
| Further recovery and reflection | A further 45 days, generally for minors and suspected victims of forced marriage, and case by case for others |
| Helping with a criminal justice process (assistance notice) | Until 28 days after the assistance notice is revoked |
| Travel to Australia, or travel overseas for compelling reasons | By invitation, for set dates |
How a BVF is granted
A law enforcement agency gives a support statement, usually as part of Form 1239. Travel BVFs are granted by invitation, which the person must accept in writing within 7 days. There is no visa application charge. If the person is in immigration detention, the application must be decided within strict time limits, and policy says a suspected victim who is unlawful must not be detained.
Conditions, work and support
Conditions such as no work, reporting or keeping a fixed address can be imposed, but policy says that in practice none are generally imposed. BVF holders can get support through the Support for Trafficked People Program, including case management, accommodation, medical care, counselling, legal and migration advice, and English classes through the Adult Migrant English Program.
Travel
An ordinary BVF does not allow travel. A travel BVF can be offered by invitation, for example to bring a victim to Australia to help police, or to let a victim travel overseas for compelling and compassionate reasons and return.
A permanent pathway
Victims who have helped with a criminal justice process and would be in danger if they returned home may be invited to apply for the Referred Stay (Permanent) visa (subclass 852). This is by invitation only, and the process starts with the Australian Federal Police.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a BVF myself?
The process starts with police identifying you as a suspected victim. Contact the Australian Federal Police on 131 237, or a support service, for help.
Do I have to help police to get a BVF?
Not for the first BVF. Helping with a criminal justice process is not required for the initial recovery period.
Can I work on a BVF?
Usually yes. A no work condition can be imposed, and applies automatically in some detention cases, but policy says conditions are generally not imposed.
Can my family get a BVF too?
Yes. Immediate family members, such as a partner or dependent children, can be included in a combined application.
Is there a fee for a BVF?
No. The visa application charge is nil.
Related guides
- Bridging visas explained
- Bridging Visa E (BVE)
- Bridging Visa R (BVR)
- Bridging Visa A (BVA)
- ART review of visa decisions
Need confidential advice? Book a consultation with one of our registered migration agents.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice for your situation.
