Bridging Visa E: When It Is Granted and What It Means
A Bridging Visa E (BVE) is a bridging visa few people want to hold but that is important to understand. A BVE is often a sign that a visa journey in Australia is coming to an end and that action is needed.
What a Bridging Visa E is
A BVE is granted mainly to unlawful non-citizens (people in Australia without a valid visa) or to people in a final review or appeal process.
The main purpose of a BVE: to give a person time to:
- Arrange a voluntary departure from Australia
- Complete a final appeal process (if any)
- Settle personal affairs before leaving
Who is granted a BVE
- An unlawful non-citizen (in Australia without a visa) who is identified or presents themselves
- A person whose visa has been finally refused and who has no further appeal right
- A person in a removal or deportation process that has not yet been carried out
- Certain other special cases at the Department’s discretion
Rights on a BVE
A BVE is usually very limited:
- You may stay in Australia until the BVE expires (usually short — a few weeks to a few months)
- No work rights (unless specially granted)
- No right to leave and return to Australia
- You cannot use the BVE as a basis to apply for most new visa types
How a BVE differs from a BVA and BVC
| BVA | BVC | BVE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| When applied | Old visa still valid | Visa already expired | Unlawful or end of the road |
| Work rights | Usually yes | Rarely | Almost never |
| Purpose | Wait for a new visa | Wait for a new visa | Prepare to leave Australia |
Can you lodge a new visa on a BVE
In most cases, a person holding a BVE cannot lodge a new visa application from within Australia (onshore). A few rare exceptions exist but are not the general rule.
Recommended action when you hold a BVE
If you hold a BVE or are about to be granted one, consult a migration lawyer (not just an agent) immediately. This is a complex legal situation, and having time to act is an important factor.