The Australian Government has expanded its biometric collection requirements for visa applicants in India from October 26, introducing fingerprints and a facial image for certain new visa applications as part of efforts to strengthen the security and integrity of its migration system, the Australian High Commission in India said in a media release, IANS reported.

Source: IANS

The new requirements apply to applications lodged on or after October 26, 2026, and will not affect visas already granted or applications submitted before that date, ANI reported, citing the same High Commission release.

Source: ANI via Daily Prabhat

How it will work

The Department of Home Affairs, which manages Australia's visa processes, will notify applicants if they are required to provide biometrics and will issue instructions on how to complete the process. Applicants will typically receive the notification by email, directly or through their authorised agent.

Depending on individual circumstances, applicants may be asked to visit one of the 16 Australian Biometrics Collection Centres across India, managed by VFS Global, or may be eligible to use the Australian Immi App. The High Commission said biometric collection is not expected to adversely affect visa processing times if applicants complete the step promptly.

The government said biometrics offer a reliable way to verify identity, helping protect legitimate applicants from identity misuse, reduce fraud and strengthen the integrity of Australia's migration system. Australia already collects biometrics from visa applicants in nearly 60 countries. For Punjabi and Indian students, workers and families — one of the largest applicant groups for Australia — the change adds one extra step to new applications, but no change for anyone already holding a visa.