Australia Temporarily Bans Visitors From Iran Amid Regional Conflict Concerns

Canberra. Australia has temporarily banned visitors from Iran. This decision was made due to the increased risk that Iranian nationals might be unable to return to their home country after their visa periods expire because of the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Australian Department of Home Affairs announced that the ban would remain in effect for six months. The department described the decision as being in line with national interests given the rapidly changing global situation.

The statement read, "The ongoing conflict in Iran has increased the risk that temporary visa holders will be unable or unwilling to leave Australia once their visas expire." This ban applies to all Iranian passport holders currently outside of Australia. However, some exceptions have been made.

Iranian citizens already in Australia, travelers en route to Australia, spouses or dependents of Australian citizens, and permanent visa holders have been exempted. Furthermore, the department stated that exemptions could be granted on a case-by-case basis for special circumstances, such as guardians.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the decision to reside permanently in Australia should be under the government's control, adding that "such a decision should not be based on when someone booked a holiday." According to the government, many visas issued before the conflict began in Iran might not be approved if reapplied for under the current circumstances.