Advocates highlight that long-term residents like Fatemeh Lahmidi and Mahsa Mazaheri face delays in citizenship, underscoring the broader impact on families and stability.

Refugee Experts say citizenship pathways typically require four years on a valid visa, suggesting possible fast-tracking in these cases to allow the players to represent Australia.

HRLC calls for extending expedited citizenship pathways to Iranians in offshore detention or long-term limbo, noting around 700 refugees on insecure bridging visas who cannot safely return home.

The citizenship grant coincides with ongoing debates over Australia’s asylum and migration policies, with rights groups urging stronger protections for asylum seekers.

The case drew international attention amid concerns for the players’ welfare and reactions from Iranian media and global figures, including outreach from U.S. circles.

The citizenship ceremony was attended by friends and supporters from the local Iranian community.

Since naturalisation, the players have been training with Brisbane Roar in the A-League Women, continuing their elite sporting careers in Australia.

Two Iranian-born footballers, Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, have become Australian citizens at a Brisbane ceremony after seeking asylum following a competition in Australia.

Their naturalisation comes after several teammates and a handler were granted humanitarian visas, with five later withdrawing and returning to Iran.

The players had previously attracted attention for refusing to sing Iran's national anthem before a match against South Korea, drawing criticism on Iranian state media amid regional tensions.

Ramezanisadeh expressed enthusiasm about contributing positively to Australian society as a citizen.

Officials have not commented on the reasons for the apparent fast-tracking of these citizenships.