Australia has introduced significant changes to Protection Visa (subclass 866) arrangements, affecting overseas travel and visa refusal reviews.
From 1 November 2026, people waiting for a Protection Visa decision can no longer obtain a Bridging Visa B to travel outside Australia and return. New upfront fees also apply to most Protection Visa reviews at the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).
These changes make it particularly important for applicants to understand their visa conditions and seek professional advice before making travel or immigration decisions.
New Bridging Visa B Travel Restrictions
Previously, eligible Protection Visa applicants could apply for a Bridging Visa B (BVB) to travel overseas temporarily while awaiting a decision.
Under the new rules, applicants with pending Protection Visa matters can no longer obtain a new Bridging Visa B for overseas travel.
What does this mean for applicants?
- Applications lodged before 1 November 2026: These will continue to be processed under the previous arrangements.
- Existing Bridging Visa B holders: Any existing travel facility remains subject to its validity period and visa conditions. Once it expires, affected applicants cannot apply for another BVB.
- Applicants awaiting a decision or review: Leaving Australia without valid return travel rights could mean being unable to re-enter the country.
Protection Visa applicants may instead hold a Bridging Visa A, C or E, depending on their circumstances. These bridging visas do not provide permission to return to Australia after travelling overseas.
The restrictions also affect people awaiting relevant review outcomes.
Who Is Eligible for a Protection Visa?
A Protection Visa (subclass 866) allows eligible individuals to remain permanently in Australia if they meet Australia’s protection obligations and other visa requirements.
It is intended for people facing persecution because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership of a particular social group. Protection may also be available where a person faces a real risk of significant harm upon returning to their home country.
Applicants must generally be in Australia, having arrived on a valid visa and been immigration cleared.
A Protection Visa is not an alternative pathway for people who simply want to extend their stay or continue working in Australia.
Higher Risks and New Review Fees Following a Refusal
The Department of Home Affairs reports that approximately 85% of Protection Visa applications are refused because applicants do not meet the eligibility requirements.
A refusal can have lasting consequences, including restrictions on applying for other visas while in Australia, possible requirements to leave Australia and complications with future visa applications.
From 1 November 2026, most applicants seeking an ART review of a Protection Visa refusal or cancellation must also pay an upfront review fee of $1,863.50.
The fee is generally refundable if the review is successful, but not if the refusal is upheld. Limited exemptions apply, including certain applicants in immigration detention.
Strict deadlines apply to review applications, making timely legal advice essential.
Seek Legal Advice Before Applying or Travelling
With stricter travel restrictions, faster application decisions and significant consequences following a refusal, applicants should carefully assess their circumstances before taking action.
Providing false or misleading information can also result in serious penalties, including visa cancellation or criminal consequences.
Applicants are encouraged to seek advice from an Australian legal practitioner or registered migration agent. Free specialist refugee and immigration legal assistance may also be available.
For further information, visit Subclass 866 Protection visa for more details
Need Guidance on Your Australian Visa Options?
Understanding how these changes affect your immigration status is important, particularly if you have a pending application, are considering overseas travel or have received a visa refusal.
NB Migration Law can help you understand your legal position, assess your circumstances and explore available migration pathways.
Contact NB Migration Law today to arrange a consultation with our migration lawyers.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on Australian immigration requirements as at 2 November 2026 and does not constitute legal advice. Individual circumstances and visa conditions may differ.