Subclass 050 and 051
Bridging Visa E (BVE) Subclass 050 and 051
Stay in Australia lawfully while you make arrangements to leave, finalise your immigration matter or wait for a decision. The 051 is for some Protection visa applicants. Free.
About the Bridging Visa E (Subclass 050/051)
A Bridging visa E (BVE) lets you stay in Australia lawfully while you make arrangements to leave, resolve your immigration matter or wait for an immigration decision. It is often used when someone no longer holds a visa (is unlawful) and needs to regularise their status.
The subclass 051 version is for some people whose Protection visa application is being processed. BVEs often carry strict conditions, including reporting and work conditions, so it is important to understand them.
With this visa you can
- Stay in Australia lawfully for a set time or until your matter is finalised
- Work, if your conditions allow
You must
- Be eligible and not barred from applying for a bridging visa
- Comply with all conditions on your BVE, such as reporting requirements
Based on Department of Home Affairs information (October 2026). Costs shown are the starting visa application charge for the main applicant. Always confirm current details on the Department of Home Affairs website or ask our team. This page is general information, not migration advice.
Bridging Visa E (Subclass 050/051): Full Details
Everything about this visa, from eligibility to what happens after grant.
About this visa
Key facts from Home Affairs, in plain English.
There is no fee to apply for a BVE.
The 050 covers most situations. The 051 applies to some people whose Protection visa application is being processed.
BVEs often have conditions about work, reporting to the Department and where you live. Breaching them can lead to cancellation.
Eligibility
What you need.
BVEs are used in limited situations set out in the Migration Regulations, for example while you arrange to leave, or while an application or review is processed.
You must not be prevented from making a bridging visa application.
You must meet the character requirement.
The subclass 051 is for people who were refused immigration clearance, or bypassed it and came to the Department's notice within 45 days, who have applied for a Protection visa and are in immigration detention. They must also meet other specific requirements relating to age, health or nomination. Permanent and provisional visa applicants, and family members applying with them, must have health examinations with an approved panel physician. Temporary visa applicants might need them, depending on the visa and their circumstances. For the character requirement, Home Affairs may ask for police certificates and Form 80.
Step by step
How it works.
Get advice first
A BVE is often needed in urgent situations. Get advice quickly about your options.
Not sure this is the right visa for you? Contact Outlook Immigration and our registered migration agent will confirm the best pathway.
Apply
Apply using the right form, or at a Departmental office in some circumstances.
Comply with conditions
Follow all conditions, including any reporting requirements.
When you have this visa
What happens next.
Check your bridging visa conditions in VEVO, including any work or travel conditions, and comply with them.
Your bridging visa usually ends shortly after your substantive visa application is finally decided, or your review or judicial review ends.
Leaving Australia on most bridging visas ends the visa. Only a Bridging visa B lets you leave and return within a set travel period.
Bridging Visa E (Subclass 050/051) FAQs
Straight answers to the questions we hear most.
Still have questions?
Book an appointment with a registered migration agent and get clear answers about your visa options.
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A visa that lets you stay lawfully in Australia while you make arrangements to leave, finalise your immigration matter or wait for a decision.
The 051 is for some people whose Protection visa application is being processed. The 050 covers other situations.
Only if your conditions allow. Check your conditions in VEVO.
No. There is no application fee.
Need Help With Your Visa?
Book a consultation with a MARA registered migration agent.
