Australia expanded biometric collection for certain new visa applicants in India from October 26, requiring fingerprints and facial images under a system already used in nearly 60 countries.
The Australian government expanded its biometric collection requirements for visa applicants in India from Monday, October 26, introducing fingerprints and facial images for certain new visa applications. The change is part of efforts to strengthen the security and integrity of Australia's migration system, according to a media release from the Australian High Commission in India.
The new requirements apply to applications lodged on or after October 26, 2026, and do not affect visas already granted or applications submitted before that date. The Department of Home Affairs will notify applicants if they are required to provide biometrics and issue instructions on how to complete the process, typically by email directly or through an authorised agent.
Depending on their 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. Applicants have been advised to wait for an official biometric requirement letter before booking an appointment or attempting to use the app.
The details above come from the High Commission's media release as reported by ANI, and a second ANI-carried report confirms the same start date, the 16 centres and the Immi App option. The release says biometric collection is not expected to adversely affect processing times if applicants complete the requirements promptly, and that optional services from providers will not influence processing times or outcomes.
The government said the expansion brings India's arrangements in line with established international practice, noting it already collects biometrics from applicants in nearly 60 countries. In the release it said people-to-people links between Australia and India have never been stronger, and that it wanted the visa process to remain secure, efficient and trusted as more Indians visit, study, work and build connections in Australia. The practical test will be whether applicants receive clear notifications and whether the new step adds delays in practice.