ISLAMABAD: If you are considering a trip to the countries, particularly in Europe or the West, you must be informed that some signs and symbols might be the reason for the refusal or cancellation of your visa application by the authorities if they are detected.
The problem was recently highlighted by an incident in Australia. A UK national’s visa was taken away after he was caught on social media resurrecting the Nazis’ symbols and provoking violence against Jewish people.
Reuters has reported that the Australian government revoked the visa of a 43-year-old British man because he shared a hateful and discriminatory message on X (formerly Twitter). The posts, made between October and November, were slanderous, endorsed Nazi rule, and pointed to Jews as the next victim.
The Australian Federal Police have disclosed that the man operated two social media accounts to spread his anti-Semitic and hate speech content.
Tony Burke, the Minister for Home Affairs in Australia, emphatically stated that immigrants on a visa are no more than guests, and if anyone is to unjustly enter the country with the intent of spreading hate, that person will certainly be ushered out. The canceled visa led to the individual being incarcerated in immigration and having to choose between voluntary departure and deportation.
This move came on the heel of a government shooting incident at a Jewish event in Sydney’s Bondi Beach area, where the government released a statement about introducing tougher laws against hate speech and activity. Australian authorities are adamant that even the promotion of hate material will suffice for visa cancellation, even if no direct violence is proved.
Australia simplifies visa services for Pakistan nationals
The Australian High Commission in Pakistan has simplified the visa application process for Pakistani citizens, allowing them to complete essential steps from home using their mobile phones.
According to the embassy, a new app has made obtaining an Australian visa easier than ever, eliminating the need to visit a biometric centre. A spokesperson stated that individuals who have previously submitted their biometrics to Australian authorities and hold valid passports can now upload their passport details and facial images directly through the app. This feature not only saves time but also helps applicants avoid additional costs.
Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Timothy Kane, remarked that the app has accelerated and simplified the visa process for Pakistani students, travellers, and work visa applicants. He noted that thousands of people across Asia and the Pacific have already benefited from this service, and now Pakistan has joined the ranks of countries where the app is actively used.
Introduced in 2024, the app is currently available in 34 countries, with plans for expansion into several nations across the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and Europe. Australian officials are working on modernising the global visa system, and by early 2026, the app will be fully functional worldwide.
The High Commissioner encouraged Pakistani citizens who meet the eligibility criteria to utilise this app, as it is a safe, fast, and convenient way that significantly simplifies the visa application process.
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