The Australian government has expanded its biometrics collection programme to visa applicants in India, with the new requirements taking effect from October 26, 2026. The Australian High Commission in New Delhi said the move aims to maintain a secure, efficient and trusted visa system while supporting growing travel and people-to-people connections between Australia and India. Applicants submitting new visa applications from the effective date may be required to provide fingerprints and a facial image.
The revised requirements apply only to applications lodged on or after October 26 and do not affect visas already granted or applications submitted before the deadline. Australia’s Department of Home Affairs, which manages the country’s visa processes, will notify applicants if biometrics are required and provide instructions for completing the process. Notifications will typically be sent by email to applicants or their authorised agents.
Depending on individual circumstances, applicants may be asked to visit one of 16 Australian Biometrics Collection Centres across India, managed by VFS Global, or may be eligible to use the Australian Immi App. The digital option is intended to provide greater convenience for eligible applicants while aligning India’s arrangements with Australia’s established biometrics programme in nearly 60 countries.
The High Commission said biometrics help verify applicants’ identities, protect legitimate travellers against identity misuse, reduce fraud and strengthen the integrity of Australia’s migration system. The expansion comes amid growing links between the two countries, with increasing numbers of Indians travelling to Australia for tourism, education, employment and other opportunities. The government said the initiative is intended to support these movements while maintaining confidence in visa processing.
According to the High Commission, biometric collection is not expected to adversely affect visa processing times, provided applicants complete the requirements promptly after receiving notification. Applicants have been advised to wait for an official biometrics requirement letter from the Department of Home Affairs before booking an appointment or attempting to use the Australian Immi App. Following the instructions in the official notification is essential to completing the process correctly.
The Australian government also emphasised that biometric information will be managed in accordance with Australian legislation and applicable local laws. Personal information will be processed and transmitted through encrypted channels, with safeguards intended to ensure lawful and secure handling. Applicants have been advised to use official websites and follow instructions issued by the Department of Home Affairs when arranging collection. Optional services offered by service providers do not influence visa processing times or application outcomes.