News & Insights
The Australian Government has enacted the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Act 2026, introducing significant new powers to restrict certain visa holders from entering Australia.
Under this legislation, the Minister is now empowered to make arrival control determinations, which allow for the temporary suspension of travel to Australia for certain classes of visa holders who are located offshore.
Importantly, these powers do not cancel visas. Instead, they restrict a visa holder’s ability to enter Australia, meaning a person may continue to hold a valid visa but be unable to travel to Australia while a determination is in place.
What do these powers mean?
The legislation is designed to allow the Government to respond quickly to situations of armed conflict, civil unrest, or humanitarian crises overseas. In practical terms, this means that temporary visa holders from affected regions may be prevented from travelling to Australia for a specified period.
How is this impacting Iranian Visitor visa holders?
As at 26 March 2026, arrival control determinations have been implemented under this legislation in response to escalating conditions in Iran and the broader Middle East.
This means that:
- Iranian Visitor visa holders who are offshore are currently unable to travel to Australia.
- These restrictions temporarily ban Iranian Visitor visa holders offshore from entering Australia for an indeterminate period of between 6 to 12 months.
Who is exempt?
The travel restrictions do not apply to certain categories of people, including:
- Spouses and partners of Australian citizens or permanent residents
- Dependent children of Australian citizens or permanent residents
- Parents of children under 18 years of age in Australia
- Australian citizens
- Australian permanent residents
- Holders of humanitarian visas
Are there any options if you are affected?
Individuals who are not automatically exempt may still be able to travel by applying for a Permitted Travel Certificate in compelling circumstances.
These may include:
- Urgent medical treatment
- Critical family situations
- Compassionate grounds, such as attending a funeral
Each application will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and there is no guarantee of approval.
Please read more about arrival control determinations here – https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-and-support/arrival-control-determination
If you believe you may be affected by these changes or would like advice about your options, please contact MSM Legal for tailored and expert migration advice.
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