Sydney Airport
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Iran nationals with valid visitor (subclass 600) visas have now been barred from entering Australia for the next six months.

The announcement was made by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke.

Iranians With Valid Visitor Visas Banned For Six Months

According to a report by The Guardian, around 6,800 Iranians with valid visitor visas will be affected by the ban.

It should be noted, however, that this only applies to those who hold visas and are outside Australia.

"There are many visitor visas, which were issued before the conflict in Iran which may not have been issued if they were applied for now," Burke said during the announcement.

"Decisions about permanent stays in Australia should be deliberate decisions of the government, not a random consequence of who had booked a holiday," he added.

The minister also emphasized that "The Australian government is closely monitoring global developments and will adjust settings as required to ensure Australia's migration system remains orderly, fair and sustainable."

According to ABC News, the Albanese government has been concerned that some Iranians with temporary visas will be "unable or unlikely" to leave Australia once their visas expire due to Iran's ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States.

Are There Exemptions?

As ABC News notes in its report, there are exemptions to the ban imposed against Iranians.

First, Iranians who are already traveling or transiting in the country will be exempt from the ban.

Iranians who are spouses or dependent children of Australian citizens and permanent visa holders will likewise be exempted.

In addition, the government will give "sympathetic consideration" to Iranian parents of Australian citizens.

Burke also clarified that some Iranians on visitor visas may be given "permitted travel certificates," but this will be case-to-case basis.