A bridging visa keeps you lawful in Australia while you wait for a decision on a new visa, a review or another immigration matter. Understanding which bridging visa you hold, and its conditions, helps you avoid serious problems.
✔ Reviewed September 2026 by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). Official sources: Home Affairs: Bridging visa A, Bridging visa B.
The main bridging visas
Bridging visa A (subclass 010)
Usually granted when you apply for a new visa in Australia while holding a valid substantive visa. It starts when your current visa ends. It does not let you travel and return.
Bridging visa B (subclass 020)
Lets you leave and return to Australia within a set travel period while your application is processed. You usually need to hold a BVA first and show a reason to travel.
Bridging visa C (subclass 030)
For people who apply for a new visa while they do not hold a substantive visa. It usually has more limited work rights and no travel rights.
Bridging visa E (subclass 050/051)
For people who are unlawful, or about to become unlawful, and are making arrangements to leave, or waiting on certain matters. Conditions can be strict.
Work and study rights
Your work rights depend on the conditions attached to your bridging visa. Some bridging visas carry over the work conditions of your previous visa, while others have no work rights until you show financial hardship. Always check your conditions in VEVO before starting work.
Mistakes to avoid
- Leaving Australia on a BVA, which usually ends the bridging visa
- Letting your substantive visa expire before lodging a new valid application
- Working beyond your conditions
- Not updating your address, so you miss important letters from the Department
- Assuming a bridging visa continues after a refusal without checking the review deadline
Frequently asked questions
When does my bridging visa start?
A BVA or BVC usually comes into effect when your current substantive visa ends. Until then, you remain on your current visa and its conditions.
Can I travel on a bridging visa?
Only with a Bridging visa B granted before you leave. If you leave on a BVA without a BVB, the BVA usually ceases.
What if my visa application is refused?
Your bridging visa usually continues for a set period after the decision, giving you time to seek review. Act quickly, because deadlines are strict.
How do I check my conditions?
Use the Department’s VEVO service, or contact us and we will check them with you.
Related visas and guides
Talk to a registered migration agent
Study Mate Migration is led by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). We help clients across Australia and overseas from our office in Adelaide, South Australia.
This is general information only and is not legal advice. Visa costs are approximate and vary with your circumstances, number of applicants and government changes; extra costs such as skills assessments, English tests, health checks and police certificates may also apply. Check the Department of Home Affairs website or speak with us for a current quote before you apply.
