Due to ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East, the Government of Australia has introduced temporary travel restrictions that affect some of the Visitor (Subclass 600) visa holders linked to Iranian passports.
This measure, introduced under the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Act 2026, is aimed at protecting the integrity & sustainability of Australia’s migration system due to rapidly changing global conditions.
Who Is Affected?
The Arrival Control Determination applies to individuals who:
- Are outside Australia,
- Hold a Visitor (Subclass 600) visa, and
- Hold a passport issued by the Islamic Republic of Iran at the time of applying for a Visitor visa
If all three conditions apply the Visitor Visa will temporarily cease to be in effect from 26 March 2026 for a period of six months. This means travellers cannot enter Australia during this period, even if their visa remains valid.
However, it will automatically come back into effect after 6 months, and if it expires during this time period, you will need to apply for a new visa.
Who Is Not Affected?
The Determination is not applicable to the following visitor visa holders having Iranian passports:
- the spouse, de facto partner or dependent child of an Australian citizen
- Australian permanent visa holder
- Parents of children under 18 already in Australia
- Individuals who were already in Australia when the determination started
- Individuals issued with a Permitted Travel Certificate (PTC)
These individuals may still travel, but they must provide supporting evidence before travelling.
No Refunds for Affected Visitor Visas
Affected Visitor visa holders should also note:
- No refunds will be provided for impacted visas
- Refunds are only available if specific refund criteria are met
This makes it even more important to check your visa status before travelling.
Who Can Apply for a Permitted Travel Certificate (PTC)?
If you are impacted by these restrictions but still need to travel to Australia, you may apply for a Permitted Travel Certificate (PTC) through the Department of Home Affairs’ Arrival Control Determination Portal.
But PTCs are issued case-by-case and only in limited circumstances, including:
- Parents of Australian citizens
- Travellers who can demonstrate genuine temporary travel intentions
If you started travelling to Australia before the Arrival Control Determination came into effect, including transit through another country for less than 24 hours, you will usually receive a Permitted Travel Certificate automatically. No application is required.
Applicants are also advised to lodge requests at least two weeks before travel and provide supporting documents such as:
- Proof of relationship
- Travel itinerary
- Residential details in Australia
- Evidence of temporary stay intentions
Requests without sufficient documentation may not be considered.
What This Means for Travellers
Take note that this Arrival Control Determination is a temporary travel restriction, not any type of visa cancellation. It also does not stop new applications or affect applications already in progress. All applications will continue to be assessed as usual by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
If you are planning to travel during this period, you should:
• Check your visa status through VEVO
• Request an Arrival Control Determination check
• Avoid booking travel until your eligibility is confirmed
Travellers who may be affected are encouraged to seek professional advice early from a registered migration agent in Australia, confirm their travel eligibility, and avoid unnecessary disruptions, delays, or financial risks.
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Source: Arrival Control Determination