Australia has expanded biometric collection requirements for visa applicants in India, with some people applying for Australian visas from 26 October 2026 required to provide fingerprints and a facial image.
The Australian High Commission in New Delhi said the new requirements apply to visa applications lodged on or after 26 October. Applications submitted before that date and visas already granted are not affected by the change.
“Applicants for an Australian visa in India may be required to provide biometrics, including fingerprints and a facial image, as part of the visa application process.”
Not every applicant will automatically need to provide biometrics. Department of Home Affairs will notify individuals who are required to complete the process and explain the steps they must follow.
Depending on their circumstances, applicants may be directed to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre in person or may be eligible to submit their biometric information through the Australian Immi App.
There are 16 biometric collection centres operated by VFS Global across India, according to the information provided.
The High Commission has advised applicants to wait for official instructions from the Department of Home Affairs before booking an appointment or attempting to submit information through the app. Eligible applicants who have previously provided biometrics at a collection centre and hold a valid passport may be able to use the app at no cost.
Biometrics are personal identifiers, including fingerprints and facial images, that help authorities verify a person’s identity.
Under Australia’s Migration Act 1958 and Privacy Act, biometric information may be collected, stored and used to support identity checks and protect against identity fraud. Authorities may also compare the information with previously stored records when a person enters Australia or applies for another visa.
The Department of Home Affairs may check biometric information with Australian or international agencies to verify identity, criminal history or immigration history, in accordance with applicable laws and safeguards.
Australia already collects biometric information from visa applicants in nearly 60 countries. The expansion brings India into the programme.
The High Commission said the change was intended to support a secure, efficient and trusted visa system and was not expected to adversely affect processing times, provided applicants complete any requested steps promptly.
Applicants have been advised to follow official instructions from the Department of Home Affairs and use its authorised channels for information about biometric collection. Optional services offered by service providers do not influence visa processing times or the outcome of an application.
Indian travellers planning to visit Australia should therefore check their official visa communications carefully and provide fingerprints or a facial image only if instructed to do so.
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