Australia has temporarily banned tourists and workers from Iran from entering the country for six months following escalating conflict, fearing visa overstays, while allowing some exceptions.
The Australian government announced strict measures, temporarily banning Iranian passport holders from traveling to Australia for six months, effective from 26 March, amid rising tensions from the Middle East war.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs stated in a release that the conflict in Iran creates a risk that some short-term visa holders may be unable or unwilling to leave Australia when their visas expire.
The measure covers those traveling for tourism and work, prohibiting entry for the next six months. However, authorities confirmed case-by-case exemptions, such as for parents of Australian citizens.
Tony Burke, Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs, said that many tourist visas issued before the conflict may not be approved if applied for now, adding that decisions on permanent residence should be government policy decisions, not accidental outcomes of booking tourist trips.
Government data shows more than 85,000 Australians were born in Iran, with large communities spread across major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne.
Previously, relations between Australia and Iran became strained after Australia granted asylum to seven players and officials from Iran’s women's football team.
Those players were branded traitors in their home country after refusing to sing the national anthem before the Asian Cup football matches, seen as an anti-government protest.
However, later five out of the seven players withdrew their asylum applications in Australia, raising concerns that their families might have faced pressure or threats.
: Sourcechannelnewsasia
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