The Australian Border Force (ABF) has warned visitors to Australia for the Commonwealth Games whose visas have expired that they will be subject to enforcement measures if they are not “engaging with authorities”.
ABF said it was aware some individuals had remained in Australia, declaring “Visa over-stayers are a common feature of many major international events”.
“We will not be commenting on individual cases or providing a running commentary on those remaining.”
It said some individuals had already applied for new visas and their cases would be assessed in line with standard processes.
ABF said those who attempted to remain in the community without engaging with authorities should be aware of the rules relating to anyone in Australia without a valid visa.
It said they would be subject to enforcement measures aimed at locating, detaining and removing them from Australia.
ABF said it had established a dedicated operation to ensure that those who should depart Australia, did so.
“Those who are removed may also face a three-year re-entry ban [to] Australia and may owe a debt to the Australian Government for the cost of their removal,” it said.
“Anyone who is still in Australia without a valid visa should depart immediately, or contact the Department of Home Affairs to discuss their visa status,” it said.
