[no bill text published] Ministerial powers to suspend temporary visas for non-citizens (arrival control)
Migration Amendment (2026 Measures No. 1) Bill 2026
1st House
2nd House
Law
Links to official parliament websites
Effects of this bill
If this bill passes, it means that:
The Minister can suspend temporary visas for specific groups of non-citizens; this happens if an event occurs outside Australia and it is in the national interest.
The Prime Minister and the Minister for Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities must agree in writing before a suspension happens.
Suspensions do not apply to people already in the migration zone; they also do not apply to holders of protection, safe haven, or certain humanitarian and bridging visas.
Spouses, partners, and children of Australian citizens or permanent residents are exempt from these suspensions; parents of children under 18 in Australia are also exempt.
The Minister can issue a travel certificate to exempt a specific person from a suspension.
Suspended visas come back into effect if the suspension is revoked or the person no longer fits the criteria.
The Minister must give Parliament a copy of the suspension order and a statement of reasons within two sitting days.