Australia has temporarily barred visitors from Iran, citing heightened risks linked to the ongoing US-Israel conflict that could prevent Iranian nationals from returning home after their visas expire, media reports said on Thursday.
According to Al Jazeera, Australia’s Department of Home Affairs announced on Wednesday that the restrictions would remain in place for six months, describing the decision as being in the “national interest amid rapidly changing global conditions.”
“The conflict in Iran has increased the risk that some temporary visa holders may be unable or unlikely to depart Australia when their visas expire,” the department said in a statement.
“This measure gives the Government time to properly assess the situation, while still allowing flexibility in limited cases.”
The suspension applies to Iranian citizens currently outside Australia, including those who already hold valid visitor visas for tourism or work.
However, several exemptions have been outlined. These include Iranian nationals already in Australia, those en route to the country, immediate family members—such as spouses, de facto partners, and dependent children—of Australian citizens, as well as holders of permanent visas.
Authorities also said exemptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, including for parents of Australian citizens.
Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said decisions regarding permanent residency should be determined by the government rather than circumstances beyond its control.
“There are many visitor visas which were issued before the conflict in Iran that may not have been issued if they were applied for now,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Sydney-based Asylum Seekers Centre criticized the move, calling it a “shameful new law” rushed through parliament that could undermine Australia’s onshore protection system for people seeking refuge.
“For years, politicians have emphasised the importance of seeking safety through so-called legal pathways,” the group said in a statement.
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