Australia bars visitors from Iran amid war in West Asia

Australia has temporarily barred visitors from Iran, citing concerns that the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel could prevent Iranian nationals from returning home after their short-term visas expire.

The country’s Department of Home Affairs said on Wednesday that the restriction would remain in place for six months, describing it as a step taken in the national interest amid rapidly evolving global conditions.

The department indicated that the conflict had heightened the risk that some temporary visa holders might be unable or unwilling to leave Australia once their visas lapse, and added that the measure would allow time to assess the situation while retaining flexibility in limited circumstances, Al Jazeera reported.

The restriction applies to Iranian citizens currently outside Australia, even if they already hold valid visitor visas for tourism or work. However, exemptions have been outlined for those already in the country, individuals in transit, as well as spouses, partners, dependent children of Australian citizens, and holders of permanent visas.

Authorities also noted that additional exemptions could be considered on a case-by-case basis, including for parents of Australian citizens.

Tony Burke, the Home Affairs Minister, said that decisions about permanent stay in Australia should be made by the government rather than being influenced by chance factors such as travel bookings.

He also pointed out that many visas issued before the escalation in Iran might not have been granted under current conditions, adding that the government would continue to monitor developments and adjust its policies to keep the migration system orderly and sustainable.

Meanwhile, the Asylum Seekers Centre criticised the move, describing it as the outcome of a hastily enacted law that could undermine Australia’s onshore protection system.

The group argued that while authorities had long encouraged people to seek safety through formal channels, the new restrictions effectively closed off an important pathway during a humanitarian crisis.

Earlier, Donald Trump had urged Anthony Albanese to grant asylum to members of Iran’s women’s football team amid concerns about possible repercussions back home.

Albanese later said that some team members had sought assistance and were located safely by authorities. Reports indicated that seven players and officials were granted asylum, although five later chose to return to Iran.

The team had travelled to Australia for a tournament prior to the February 28 strikes on Iran. According to official data up to 2024, more than 90,000 Australian residents were born in Iran, with sizable diaspora communities in cities such as Sydney and Melbourne.