Australia has announced major relief measures for visa applicants and visitors stranded in the country due to ongoing Middle East airspace closures, offering fast-tracked visa processing and key fee relaxations.
According to officials, travellers currently in Australia on visit visas who are unable to return home can apply for a new Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) before their existing visa expires. Unlike some Gulf nations, extensions are not automatic and require a fresh application.
The crisis began after Iran launched retaliatory strikes on February 28, 2026, leading to widespread airspace closures across multiple countries. As a result, major airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways have reduced operations significantly, leaving many passengers unable to travel.
Relief measures announced
The Department of Home Affairs has introduced several steps for affected visitors:
- Fast-tracked processing for new visa applications linked to the crisis
- Waiver of overstay fines for those unable to leave due to flight disruptions
- Case-by-case fee waivers for applicants facing genuine hardship
However, authorities have clarified that applicants must still apply before their visa expires, as no blanket automatic extensions have been introduced like in Kuwait or Bahrain.
How to extend your stay
There is no direct extension system. Instead, visitors must submit a new application for the same visa category while still holding a valid visa.
Applicants should:
- Check visa conditions through ImmiAccount or VEVO
- Prepare documents including passport, visa details, proof of cancelled flights, financial support, and insurance
- Apply online under the Tourist Stream and clearly explain travel disruption
- Wait for processing, which may take 2 to 6 weeks
Once the application is submitted, a Bridging Visa A is automatically granted. This allows applicants to stay legally in Australia after their current visa expires until a decision is made.
Fees and special conditions
The standard fee for applying onshore is AUD 500, though authorities are considering fee waivers in genuine cases linked to the crisis.
Applicants with “No Further Stay” conditions (8503, 8534, 8535) must first request a waiver by providing evidence of flight cancellations and travel restrictions.
Officials have also warned that while the Bridging Visa allows legal stay, it does not permit international travel. Those needing to travel must apply separately for a Bridging Visa B.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade estimates that over 115,000 Australians were affected globally, while thousands of foreign visitors within Australia are also facing travel disruptions.
Authorities have urged all affected travellers to regularise their visa status as soon as possible to avoid complications.
Also read: UAE announces update for Golden Visa holders
