A Bridging Visa E (BVE) is a temporary visa that allows a person to remain lawfully in Australia while resolving their immigration status. It may be relevant if your previous visa has expired, if you are waiting on the outcome of another visa application, or if you need time to make arrangements to leave Australia.
Unlike other bridging visas, the BVE comes with strict conditions. It does not provide the freedom to travel and usually carries restrictions on work and study. Its purpose is to give legal status while the Department of Home Affairs decides your case or you finalise your departure.
Who can apply for a Bridging Visa E
A BVE may be granted where a person:
- has overstayed a visa and become unlawful but is making arrangements to depart Australia
- has applied for a substantive visa after becoming unlawful, and that application is still being considered
- has lodged a request for review at the Tribunal or sought ministerial intervention
- requires lawful status while cooperating with authorities or dealing with another immigration process
Applicants must be in Australia when they apply and when the visa is granted. Character requirements also apply, and a past visa refusal or cancellation may affect eligibility.
Work rights on a Bridging Visa E
Work rights are not automatic. Many BVE holders are subject to condition 8101 (no work). To obtain permission to work, you must show a “compelling need to work,” usually by demonstrating financial hardship.
For example, you may need to provide:
- recent bank statements and evidence of limited savings
- details of rent, bills, and medical costs
- information about debts or dependants you support
- a personal statement explaining your circumstances
If you are applying for a Protection visa, you may also need to explain why you did not lodge that application before your last visa expired. Evidence such as medical records, counselling reports, or personal statements may be relevant.
If the Department accepts your request, they will issue a new BVE with permission to work.
Other conditions and restrictions
- No travel: The BVE ceases once you leave Australia. You cannot return on this visa.
- Study: In most cases, study is not permitted.
- Reporting: You may be required to report regularly to a compliance officer.
These restrictions can make daily life difficult, but the alternative — remaining unlawful in Australia — carries significant risks.
Acting quickly matters
If you are without a valid visa, the consequences can be severe. Being unlawful may trigger future visa bars or affect your eligibility for permanent residence. A Bridging Visa E can keep you lawful while you resolve your next step, but it should not be seen as a long-term solution.
How Leyton Stone Law can help
At Leyton Stone Law, we assist individuals who need to apply for a Bridging Visa E, including requests for work rights supported by financial hardship submissions. We also advise on strategy, eligibility, and the risks of remaining in Australia without a visa.
Disclaimer:
The information in this article is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration matters can be complex — you should seek advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer about your individual circumstances before making any decision.
If you would like tailored advice, Leyton Stone Law can assess your eligibility, advise on strategy, and manage your application through to lodgement.
We recommend speaking with an immigration lawyer at Leyton Stone Law promptly if you are considering a Bridging Visa E, to avoid the risks of becoming unlawful.