EXPLANATORY STATEMENT

Migration Regulations 1994

ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLICATIONS FOR BRIDGING VISAS 2015

 (Items 1301, 1302, 1303, 1304, 1305 and 1306 - Bridging A, B, C, D, E and F visas)

1. This Instrument is made under subregulation 2.07(5) of the Migration Regulations 1994 (the Regulations), for items 1301, 1302, 1303, 1304, 1305 and 1306 of Schedule 1 to the Migration Regulations 1994 (the Regulations). 

2.        The purpose of the Instrument is specify the form numbers of the approved forms on which an application must be made for applications for Bridging A (Class WA) subclass 010, Bridging B (Class WB) subclass 020, Bridging C (Class WC) subclass 030, Bridging D (Class WD) subclasses 040 and 041, Bridging E (Class WE) subclasses 050 and 051 and Bridging F (Class WF) subclass 060 visas.

3.        An additional purpose is to specify that for an application that is not an Internet application, where the form specified in clause 1 of this instrument is also the form for making a substantive visa application, the place for making the application is the same as the place for making an application for a substantive visa of the relevant class.

4.        The instrument also specifies that an application must be made in Australia but not in immigration clearance.

5.        The Instrument operates to specify approved forms for making valid applications and clarify the manner of lodgement by which applications must be made for making valid applications for the relevant bridging visa classes.

6.        Pursuant to subsection 18(1) of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003 consultation was not necessary.  The Instrument is of a minor or machinery nature and does not substantially alter existing arrangements.

7.        Under section 44 of the Legislative Instruments Act 2003 the Instrument is exempt from disallowance and therefore a Human Rights Statement of Compatibility is not required.

8.        The Office of Best Practice Regulation has advised that a Regulatory Impact Statement is not required (OBPR Reference 17108).

9.        This Instrument number, IMMI 15/044, commences on 18 April 2015.