Australia grants citizenship to Iranian women’s soccer players in Brisbane

Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, members of the Iranian women’s soccer team, received Australian citizenship in Brisbane on August 5, 2026. The women, who sought asylum in Australia in March, attended a ceremony officiated by Immigration Minister Tony Burke. Their citizenship could help them play for Australia, following a period of welfare concerns after Iran withdrew from the Women’s Asia Cup. The Refugee Council of Australia noted that citizenship eligibility typically requires four years of residency under a valid visa.

• 9:15 AMYahoo Sports — Australia grants citizenship to 2 Iranian women’s soccer players who sought asylum