The Department of Home Affairs has published information for Iranian nationals in Australia who need to extend their stay because of the conflict in Iran but cannot meet the criteria for a new visa. Affected people may be considered for an offer of temporary humanitarian stay, given effect through the grant of a Humanitarian Stay (Temporary) visa (subclass 449) where all criteria, including health, character and security requirements, are met.
The visa is by invitation only and cannot be applied for.
An offer will generally only be considered where all of the following apply:
- the person is in Australia
- the person is an Iranian national or the immediate family of an Iranian national
- the person cannot return to their usual place of residence and has no right to reside in another country
- the person’s visa has ceased, or their current visa will cease within the next three months
- the person does not have a visa application in progress, including holding a bridging visa in association with an application for merits review
- the person does not have any other visa options available. The department directs affected people to its visa finder service at Explore visa options.
Where any of the above do not apply, an offer will only be considered in exceptional circumstances and where there are no other options to remain lawfully in Australia or depart as intended. The applicant must still meet all legal requirements for the grant of the visa, including health, character and security requirements.