Bridging Visas in Australia Explained: Types A, B, C, D, and E (2026)
Published 2026-02-14
What Is a Bridging Visa?
A bridging visa is a temporary visa that allows you to remain lawfully in Australia while your substantive visa application is being processed, or while you are making arrangements to leave. Bridging visas are not standalone visas you apply for independently (with some exceptions) — most are granted automatically when you lodge a valid visa application. There are five types of bridging visas (A through E), each serving a different purpose and carrying different conditions.
Bridging Visa A (BVA)
The most common bridging visa, the BVA is automatically granted when you lodge a valid visa application while holding a substantive visa in Australia. It activates when your substantive visa expires. Work rights on a BVA depend on your circumstances — if your substantive visa had work rights, your BVA generally will too. If not, you may need to apply for work permission. A BVA does not allow you to travel outside Australia — if you leave, the BVA ceases and you cannot return unless you hold a Bridging Visa B.
Bridging Visa B (BVB)
The BVB allows you to travel outside Australia and return while your visa application is being processed. You must apply for a BVB before departing — it cannot be granted after you leave. The application fee is approximately $165. You need to demonstrate a substantial reason for travel (such as business, family emergency, or medical treatment). A BVB is valid for a specified travel period, after which you revert to your BVA. If you need to travel while on a bridging visa, apply for the BVB well in advance of your travel dates.
Bridging Visa C (BVC)
A BVC is granted when you lodge a valid visa application while holding a Bridging Visa A, B, or C — essentially a bridging visa on top of a bridging visa. This can happen when your first application is refused and you lodge a new one. BVC conditions are generally more restrictive than a BVA: there is no travel allowed and work rights may be limited. If you find yourself on a BVC, consult a migration agent to understand your options and any restrictions.
Bridging Visa D (BVD)
The BVD is a very short-term visa granted in limited circumstances, typically at the point of entry to Australia or to provide temporary lawful status while a person makes arrangements to lodge a substantive visa application. It is generally valid for only a few days and is granted by Department officers. Most applicants will never encounter a BVD.
Bridging Visa E (BVE)
The BVE is granted to people who are unlawful non-citizens (have overstayed their visa) to allow them to remain lawfully while making arrangements to depart Australia or resolve their immigration status. A BVE must be applied for — it is not automatic. It generally does not include work rights unless specifically requested and approved. A BVE is typically granted for a short period and may have a 'no further stay' condition. If you need a BVE, seek advice from a migration agent immediately, as your situation requires urgent attention.
Work Rights on Bridging Visas
Work rights vary between bridging visa types and individual circumstances. If your last substantive visa included work rights, your bridging visa generally will too. If it did not, you may apply for work permission by demonstrating financial hardship. Some bridging visas carry a condition 8101 (no work) that can be varied in certain circumstances. If you are unsure about your work rights, check your visa conditions on VEVO or contact the Department of Home Affairs. Working in breach of your visa conditions is a serious matter that can lead to visa cancellation.
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