Australia is home to an estimated 77,700 individuals living without valid visas, according to recent government data released this week. Among them, roughly 25,000 have overstayed their visas for more than ten years, highlighting a significant and persistent challenge within the country’s immigration system.

Data obtained through a freedom of information request reveals that the Department of Home Affairs cancelled 5,158 visas during the 2025 calendar year. However, only 1,502 individuals were removed or deported following these cancellations, leaving thousands still residing in Australia without legal status. The records also indicated that 14 individuals deemed threats to health, safety, public order, or community cohesion had their visas revoked.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke acknowledged the complexity of addressing the issue, emphasizing that each case varies in nature. He pointed out that some people have overstayed unintentionally and may be in the process of securing new visas, while others deliberately cycle through temporary visas without plans to leave. Burke described the situation he inherited as a “ridiculous backlog” stemming from the previous government’s policies and asserted that current efforts are gradually reducing the number of unlawful non-citizens.

Shadow spokesman for Home Affairs and Immigration, Jonno Duniam, criticized the government’s approach, arguing that too many people living illegally in Australia continue to access benefits without complying with immigration laws. He insisted that the ruling Labor Party is not taking sufficient action to expedite removals and enforce the nation’s border controls effectively.

The figures underscore an ongoing challenge for Australia in managing its visa system and enforcing immigration laws amid a growing backlog of unlawful non-citizens. Officials face the delicate task of balancing national security and public safety concerns with the practical and legal complexities involved in removal processes.