According to the United Nations, Iran is host to one of the largest and most protracted refugee situations in the world and has provided asylum to refugees for over four decades. At the end of 2025, Iran was hosting over 2.5 million refugees and displaced people, primarily people from Afghanistan. The conflict will trigger significant new displacement, forcing Iranian citizens and refugees from the region residing in Iran facing further displacement and uncertainty, with some being displaced for the second or third time……
We understand that the Government has been working to find solutions for the thousands of Australian citizens and permanent residents who have registered to leave Iran and are unable to travel due to the flight restrictions.
The Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) and our members are seeking the inclusion of refugees holding Humanitarian XB sub-class visas in evacuation plans. Based on recent trends, our understanding is that there would be several hundred refugees residing in Iran who have been granted a Humanitarian XB sub-class visa who have not yet been able to travel to Australia.
https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/letter-supporting-refugees-australians-iran/