Iranian footballers who defied Tehran become Australian citizens

Two Iranian female footballers who publicly defied their government have become Australian citizens.

Atefeh Ramezanisadeh, 34, and Fatemeh Pasandideh, 22, were naturalised in Brisbane, Queensland, on Wednesday.

Ramezanisadeh said it was a "truly special and unforgettable day", while her teammate said "this moment means more than words can express".

They were among seven members of Iran's national team to be granted humanitarian visas while in Australia for the Women's Asian Cup in March - but the other five changed their minds and returned home.

It was feared the team would face repercussions for refusing to sing the Iranian anthem at their opening match, just days after the US-Israeli war against Iran began.

Under pressure from the Iranian community in Australia, authorities initially gave the players a chance to seek asylum – in the end though, only Ramezanisadeh and Pasandideh took up the offer.

There was never any question about whether both would become citizens, but the decision comes as the Australian government prepares to introduce tougher visa rules aimed at cutting migration.

The new rules are expected to include restricting the work and appeal rights of asylum seekers and a ban on visitors applying for family visas.