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Bridging visa E (BVE) Australia

Stay in Australia lawfully while your immigration status is resolved

Bridging visas are issued to allow individuals who are currently without a visa to stay in Australia while their application is being processed or to maintain lawful status while they make arrangements to leave the country.

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The Australian Migration Lawyers difference

What is the bridging visa E (BVE)?

The Bridging Visa E (BVE) is a temporary visa that allows individuals to remain lawfully in Australia while they manage their immigration matters. This visa is granted to individuals whose substantive visa has expired and are wanting to legalise their status before applying for a substantive visa, or whilst either awaiting the outcome of an immigration decision, such as the processing of a new visa application or an appeal. It can also be used by individuals making arrangements to voluntarily depart from Australia. The BVE is a key tool for those who need to regain lawful status while resolving their immigration situation. Importantly, the BVE does not grant re-entry rights if the holder leaves Australia, meaning that once a person departs the country, they would need a different visa to return.

Eligibility requirements for the bridging visa E (BVE)

To be eligible for the Bridging Visa E (Subclass 050), applicants must meet specific criteria. First, the applicant must be physically present in Australia when applying for and when granted the visa. The BVE is available to individuals who do not currently hold a valid substantive visa or who are already in possession of a Bridging Visa D (BVD) (subclass 041) or a Bridging Visa E (BVE) BVE (subclass 050). The visa may be granted if the individual is either:

  •  Planning to leave Australia;
  •  Applying for a substantive visa (such as any visa other than a bridging, criminal justice, or enforcement visa); or
  • Seeking merits review of a canceled visa, pursuing a judicial review related to a visa or citizenship decision, or requesting ministerial intervention.

Furthermore, applicants are required to meet the character requirements outlined by Australian immigration law. In some cases, family members may also be required to meet these character standards.  Lastly, if your previous visa has been refused or canceled, you should verify whether this impacts your eligibility to apply for the BVE.

Benefits of a bridging visa E (BVE)

The Bridging Visa E (BVE) provides several key benefits to individuals managing their immigration status in Australia:

  • Lawful Stay in Australia: A BVE allows you to remain in Australia legally while your immigration matters are being resolved. It serves as a temporary visa that bridges the gap between the expiration of a previous visa and the outcome of a new visa application or departure arrangements.
  • Work Rights: Although the BVE does not automatically grant work rights, applicants can request permission to work if they can demonstrate financial hardship. This requires submitting supporting documentation that outlines your personal situation and need for employment.
  • Versatility: Bridging visas, including the BVE, are adaptable to various circumstances, making them a flexible option for those navigating complex immigration issues. Whether you are awaiting the outcome of a visa application or preparing to leave Australia, the BVE provides temporary lawful status during these transitions.
  • Preparation for Departure: The BVE also enables individuals to stay in Australia while finalising their departure plans or while awaiting an immigration decision.
  • No Application Fee for BVE: One advantage of the Bridging Visa E (BVE) is that there is no application fee associated with it. The absence of an application fee makes the BVE a cost-effective solution for maintaining lawful status in Australia during transitional periods.

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How does the bridging visa E (BVE) works?

The Bridging Visa E (BVE) allows you to remain in Australia while your immigration matter is resolved or you make arrangements to leave. It ensures that you can regain lawful status, preventing detention or deportation. While the BVE helps regain lawful status in Australia, it does not allow re-entry if the holder departs the country. Additionally, it generally does not grant work rights unless the applicant can demonstrate financial hardship and provide compelling reasons. If work rights are requested and approved, the Department of Home Affairs may issue a new BVE with permission to work.

Benefits of using Australian Migration Lawyers for your bridging visa E

Navigating immigration law can be complex. Australian Migration Lawyers can provide expert guidance through every step of your BVE application.  At Australian Migration Lawyers, we ensure that your application meets all legal requirements, help you understand your visa conditions, and offer tailored advice, particularly if you need work rights or are managing other immigration concerns. 

Bridging visa E (BVE) costs

One of the key benefits of the Bridging Visa E is that it is free to apply for. There are no government fees associated with submitting a BVE application.

Visa application process

Applying for a visa to Australia can be complex. With help from an Australian Migration Lawyer, we can untangle this complexity, and help you apply for the right visa.

1. Consultation and engagement

2. Preparation and support

3. Submission and communication

4. Representation and success

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Bridging visa E (BVE) processing times

Processing times for a Bridging Visa E can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the volume of applications. Generally, it may take anywhere from one to two weeks.

Meet your bridging visa team

We’re a diverse team of professionals with decades of experience. We care about your situation and will make sure you always get the support and advice you need.

Locations

We offer professional migration advice and support, no matter where you are based. Those located in Australia have the choice of meeting with us at one of our offices or online, and for those offshore, we are available to you online.

Frequently asked questions

Read our most commonly asked questions about the bridging visa E in Australia

How long can I stay in Australia on a bridging visa E?

A Bridging Visa E (Subclass 050) allows you to remain lawfully in Australia until either once you have lodged a substantive visa application or while awaiting the outcome of judicial review proceedings associated with your case, or for a specified period to allow you to make arrangements to exit the country. However, your Bridging Visa E (BVE) will cease if you leave Australia, are granted a substantive visa, or if the BVE is canceled.

Do you get work rights on a bridging visa E?

While holding a Bridging Visa E, you generally do not have permission to work in Australia. This means you are not allowed to engage in paid employment. However, if you are facing financial hardship, you may apply for work rights. To do so, you need to provide evidence of your financial situation and explain why you need to work. This application will be assessed by the Department of Home Affairs on a case-by-case basis

Can I apply for another visa while on a bridging visa E?

Yes, you can apply for another substantive visa while holding a BVE, provided you meet the eligibility requirements for that visa.

About the content author

Perry Q Wood
Partner - Principal Migration Lawyer

Perry Q Wood is National President of the Australian Institute of Administrative Law and one of Australia’s leading administrative and migration lawyers. To date, he has been involved in 1,000+ migration and refugee matters.

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