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Bridging Visas A, B, C and E Australia 2026: Key Differences Explained
Bridging visas are temporary visas used to keep eligible non-citizens lawfully in Australia while an immigration matter is being resolved. The correct bridging visa depends on the person's substantive visa status, pending application or review, travel needs and other circumstances.
Bridging Visa A (BVA)
A BVA is commonly associated with a valid onshore substantive visa application made while the applicant held a substantive visa. It allows lawful stay when the previous substantive visa ceases, subject to the terms of the grant.
Bridging Visa B (BVB)
A BVB is the bridging visa that can permit overseas travel and return during a defined travel period. Home Affairs states that only a BVB allows departure and re-entry while waiting for a substantive visa decision; another bridging visa generally ceases if the holder leaves Australia.
Read our dedicated Bridging Visa B travel guide.
Bridging Visa C (BVC)
A BVC can be relevant where a person validly applies for a substantive visa while not holding a substantive visa. Home Affairs' current guidance contrasts this with the BVA position by explaining that an applicant who holds a substantive visa at lodgement may be eligible for a BVA, while a person who does not may be eligible for a BVC.
Bridging Visa E (BVE)
A BVE is a status-resolution visa. Home Affairs states that it can allow eligible people to remain lawfully while making arrangements to depart, pursuing a substantive visa matter, seeking merits or judicial review, or in other specified status-resolution circumstances.
Official BVE page: Subclass 050 Bridging Visa E.
Work rights and other conditions
Work rights are not identical across all bridging visas or all grants. Conditions can vary depending on the statutory basis and individual circumstances. Holders should check the actual grant notice and VEVO rather than assume a bridging visa automatically permits work.
For visa-condition guidance, see the Australian Visa Conditions Database.
For applicants without a substantive visa, see Schedule 3 Australia 2026.
