Australia has recorded 432,000 people holding bridging visas, the highest number ever recorded. According to the latest numbers released by the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Bureau of Statistic on 31 March 2026.
Processing delays were contributing to the increasing bridging visa number. Another factor was political debate around migration levels, border management and visa processing time.
However, the number has reduced to 419,682 in April.
What is Bridging Visa?
A bridging visa is a temporary visa that allows a person to remain lawfully in Australia, while their substantive visa application is being processed. The bridging visas are supposed to be a short-term mechanism while someone is awaiting a visa outcome.
This may include waiting for the outcome of a visa application, visa review, appeal or other immigration decision.
Recent data also revealed:
- More than 5,100 visas were cancelled during the previous year.
- Only 1,502 individuals were deported following visa cancellations.
- Approximately 77,700 unlawful non-citizens were living in Australia.
- Around 25,000 people have remained in Australia without a valid visa for more than 10 years.
These figures become ongoing discussions about border security, compliance, and migration management.
Potential Changes to Australia’s Migration Policy
Migration is expected to remain a major political issue leading into future elections as the opposition recently announced that the coalition would seek significant reductions in migration levels if elected. They proposed to reduce migration by more 70% from Labor’s peak immigration numbers that potentially bringing annual migration numbers below 200,000.
At the same time, current government forecasts indicate Australia will welcome:
- An additional 35,000 migrants in 2025–26 compared to previous projections.
- A further 20,000 migrants in 2026–27.
As a result, net overseas migration is expected to reach approximately 1.2 million people between 2025 and 2030.
What Does This Mean for Visa Applicants?
For current and future visa applicants, these figures highlight the importance of:
- Lodging complete and accurate visa applications.
- Preparing supporting documents carefully.
- Applying as early as possible.
- Seeking professional advice when dealing with complex visa matters.
Need Help with Your Visa Application?
Our team at AusStudyVisa can assist with:
- Free course enrolment assistance for International Students
- Free student visa application assistance for International Students
- Skilled migration visas
- State nomination applications
- Employer-sponsored visas
- Permanent residency pathways
- Family / Partner visa
Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION to get professional guidance on your Australian migration journey.
Date Created: 12 June 2026
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