New Arrival Control Determination: Visitor (Subclass 600) Travel Restrictions for Iranian Passport Holders
The Minister of Home Affairs announced on 25 March 2026 that an Arrival Control Determination under the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Act 2026 commenced on 26 March 2026 and will remain in effect for six (6) months. The Determination temporarily affects certain Visitor (Subclass 600) visas held by Iranian passport holders who are outside of Australia on commencement.
Read more about the Arrival Control Determination under section 84B of the Migration Act 1958, introduced by the Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Act 2026.
Who is Affected?
The individual is affected if, on 26 March 2026:
Is outside of Australia;
Hold a Visitor (Subclass 600) visa; and
The Department recorded that you used a passport issued by the Islamic Republic of Iran for the SC600 visa application.
Can I Request for a Refund for my Ceased SC600 Visa?
No refunds will be given, unless the individual meets the eligibility criteria for a refund under regulation 2.12F.
Who is NOT Affected by this Restriction?
The restriction does not apply to Visitor visa holders with Iranian passports in situations such as:
Spouse, de facto partner, or dependent child of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen; or
Parent of a child under 18 years old who is in Australia; or
Anyone who was already in Australia when the rule commenced on 26 March 2026; or
Anyone who has a Permitted Travel Certificate (PTC) that is currently valid.
What is a Permitted Travel Certificate (PTC)?
A PTC is a special permission to travel despite the rule. PTCs are rare and only given in limited cases, examples include parents of Australian citizens or people who can show they truly intend to stay on a short time for allowed reasons.
If you get a PTC and hold a valid visa, you may travel to Australia. You must show proof that the rule does not apply to you before you travel. You may apply for a PTC through the Department’s Arrival Control Determination portal.
How To Check Your Visa Status Before Travel?
Use the Department of Home Affairs’ Arrival Control Determination Portal to request an “Arrival Control Determination check”. It will tell you whether your Subclass 600 visa is affected. Ensure to do this before you buy flights or travel.
What Can You Do Now?
If you hold a Visitor (Subclass 600) visa and used an Iranian passport, do not travel before you check your visa status.
If you may be exempt, ensure to gather and collect relevant documents to support your claim.
If you require a PTC, apply through the Department’s portal and provide strong evidence.
If you discovered that your visa is affected, you may seek assistance from an Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law before making travel plans.
Read our clients’ testimonials on Agape Henry Crux and Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law, Jason Ling.
Related:
Decoding "Complex Visa Case": What It Means and Why It Matters
What You Need to Know About Judicial Review at the Federal Circuit Court
How Can Agape Henry Crux Help
Wondering if you are affected by the new restrictions and don’t know where to start, reach out to speak with one of our immigration lawyers for professional advice and guidance. At Agape Henry Crux, our team of immigration lawyers work together with our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, who specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can book a consultation with one of our lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.
We speak fluent English and Mandarin. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.
Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, has been recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards.
This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.
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