Two Iranian female footballers, Atefeh Ramezanisadeh and Fatemeh Pasandideh, have been granted Australian citizenship. The pair were naturalised in Brisbane, Queensland, on Wednesday, 5 August 2026.
Ramezanisadeh, 34, described it as a "truly special and unforgettable day," while Pasandideh, 22, stated, "this moment means more than words can express." Both players have been training with the A-League Women's team Brisbane Roar, aiming to continue their elite sporting careers in Australia.
They were among seven members of Iran's national team who received humanitarian visas in Australia during the Women's Asian Cup in March. However, the other five players chose to return to Iran. Concerns had been raised about the team's safety after footage emerged of a state TV host reportedly calling them "traitors" for their silence during the Iranian anthem on 2 March.
The decision to grant citizenship comes as the Australian government prepares to introduce tougher visa rules. These new rules are expected to include restrictions on work and appeal rights for asylum seekers, and a ban on visitors applying for family visas.