Thirty one Sydney World Youth Day pilgrims whose visas have expired are still in Australia in a total of 974 pilgrims who have not yet left the country. There are 974 Catholic pilgrims remaining in Australia following the July festivities, with 740 holding visas which remain valid from when they arrived, according to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, The Herald-Sun reports.
A further 203 have applied to have their visas extended but 31 pilgrims are here unlawfully.
They are now being told to contact immigration authorities or face deportation.
Yesterday Immigration Minister Chris Evans said: "The number overstaying continued to rise as their three month visas expired."
"Some are still partying and looking to enjoy Australia, others will be seeking asylum."
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(Source: CHN)