CANBERRA: Australia has announced a temporary restriction preventing Iranian visitor visa holders from travelling to the country, citing concerns over the integrity of its migration system amid ongoing regional tensions.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that the six-month ban will apply to individuals outside Australia holding a Visitor (Subclass 600) visa linked to an Iranian passport. The measure comes after the government fast-tracked legislation earlier this month allowing it to block arrivals from certain countries during periods of instability.
However, exemptions will be granted to Iranian nationals who are already in Australia or currently in transit. Additionally, spouses and dependent children of Australian citizens and permanent residents will not be affected by the new rule.
Authorities have expressed concern that some temporary visa holders may be unable or unwilling to leave Australia once their visas expire due to the ongoing situation in Iran. To address exceptional circumstances, a limited number of individuals may be issued a “permitted travel certificate” on a case-by-case basis, particularly in compassionate situations such as parents of Australian citizens.
Burke emphasized that long-term residency decisions should be made through formal government processes rather than as unintended outcomes of short-term travel plans. He added that the government will continue to monitor global developments closely and adjust its policies as necessary to maintain a fair, orderly, and sustainable migration system.
