Australia Visa Biometrics Update 2026: New Requirements for Applicants in India
Australia has expanded its visa biometrics requirements for applicants in India from 26 October 2026. Learn who may need to provide fingerprints and facial images, where to complete biometrics, how the Australian Immi App works and what applicants should do next.
Planning to apply for an Australian visa from India? There's a new requirement you should know about before submitting your application.
From 26 October 2026, applicants lodging new Australian visa applications in India may be required to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a facial photograph.
The Australian Government has expanded its biometric collection arrangements to include India as part of its visa identity verification process.
However, this doesn't mean every applicant must immediately book a biometric appointment. The Department of Home Affairs will advise you if biometrics are required for your application.
Here's what has changed, who may be affected and what you should do next.
What Are the New Australian Visa Biometrics Requirements in 2026?
Australia's expanded biometric collection requirements for applicants in India took effect on 26 October 2026.
Biometrics are physical characteristics used to help verify a person's identity. For Australian visa applications, these can include:
- Fingerprints
- A digital facial photograph
Biometric information helps the Australian Government verify applicants' identities and strengthen the security of the visa application process.
The expansion brings India into Australia's wider biometric collection program, which covers nearly 60 countries.
The main point for applicants is that biometrics are required when the Department of Home Affairs instructs you to provide them.
You should follow the instructions issued for your individual visa application.
Who Is Affected by the New Australia Visa Biometrics Rules?
The expanded requirements apply to people lodging new Australian visa applications in India on or after 26 October 2026.
This may be relevant to people applying to visit, study, work or join family in Australia.
Applicants considering visa pathways such as a Visitor Visa (Subclass 600), Student Visa (Subclass 500) or eligible family and employment-related visas should be aware of the new arrangements.
However, the Australian Government has not stated that every application in these categories will automatically require biometric collection.
The Department of Home Affairs determines which applicants must complete this step.
What If You Applied Before 26 October 2026?
The newly expanded requirements do not apply retrospectively to applications lodged before 26 October 2026.
If you submitted your application before that date, this announcement does not introduce a new biometric requirement for your existing application.
You must still follow any biometric request separately issued by Home Affairs under the requirements applicable to your case.
Does This Apply to Indian Citizens Already Living in Australia?
The October 2026 announcement specifically concerns new visa applications lodged in India.
It should not be treated as a new blanket requirement for every Indian citizen living in Australia.
If you're applying for another visa while already in Australia, follow the biometric instructions relevant to your own application.
How Will You Know If You Need to Provide Biometrics?
After submitting your Australian visa application, the Department of Home Affairs may issue a request for biometric information.
The request will explain what information is required and how to provide it.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be instructed to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre or use the Australian Immi App.
Do not assume you need to attend a collection center before receiving an official request.
Keep checking your application correspondence and ImmiAccount for any outstanding requirements.
If a request is issued, read the instructions carefully and complete the process within the timeframe specified.
Where Can You Give Biometrics for an Australian Visa in India?
Australian visa applicants instructed to provide biometrics in person can attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC).
These centres are operated by VFS Global on behalf of the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Biometric collection locations listed by Home Affairs include:
- Ahmedabad
- Bengaluru
- Chandigarh
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
- Jaipur
- Jalandhar
- Kochi
- Kolkata
- Lucknow
- Mumbai
- New Delhi
- Pune
- Thiruvananthapuram
There are also listed collection arrangements in Panaji and Puducherry, with availability that may differ from regular centers.
Check the current center list, appointment availability and operating hours before travelling.
You can find the latest locations through the Australian Department of Home Affairs biometrics information.
How to Complete Your Australian Visa Biometrics Appointment
If Home Affairs directs you to attend a biometric collection center, the general process involves the following steps.
Step 1: Read Your Biometrics Request
Review the instructions issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
Check the required collection method, your personal details and any deadline mentioned in the request.
Step 2: Book Your Appointment
If an in-person appointment is required, follow the official booking instructions for the relevant Australian Biometrics Collection Centre.
Appointment availability may vary between locations.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Bring your valid passport or the travel document linked to your application, along with the biometric request and any other documents specified in your appointment instructions.
The collection center may be unable to complete the process without the required travel document.
Step 4: Attend Biometric Collection
At the appointment, the collection process may include taking your fingerprints and a facial photograph.
Follow the instructions provided by the authorized collection staff.
Step 5: Monitor Your Visa Application
After completing the required biometric collection, continue checking your application status and any further requests from Home Affairs.
Providing biometrics is one step in the visa assessment process. It does not mean your visa has been approved.
Can You Complete Australian Visa Biometrics Using Your Phone?
Some eligible applicants can use the Australian Immi App instead of attending a biometric collection centre.
The app allows eligible applicants to submit passport information and a live facial image digitally.
However, the option is available only when the applicant meets the requirements specified by Home Affairs.
To use the Australian Immi App, you must have:
- A biometric request letter containing a Visa Lodgment Number (VLN) beginning with AUI
- A valid passport
- A compatible smartphone with the required camera, internet and other device capabilities
If your VLN does not begin with AUI, Home Affairs instructs you to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre instead.
Eligible applicants can follow the app's instructions to scan their passport, take a facial photograph and submit their identity information.
The app does not replace biometric collection for every visa applicant.
For official instructions, visit the Australian Immi App information page.
How Much Does Australian Visa Biometrics Collection Cost?
If you're required to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre, a service fee applies.
The actual fee should be checked with the authorized service provider when arranging your appointment.
Eligible applicants who use the Australian Immi App can submit their required identity information through the app without a biometric collection fee.
These arrangements are separate from applicable Australian visa application charges and migration agent professional fees.
Will the New Biometrics Requirement Delay Australian Visas?
The Australian High Commission has stated that the expansion is not expected to affect visa processing times, provided applicants complete any biometric requirements promptly.
However, this does not guarantee a particular processing time or visa outcome.
The time required to assess an application can depend on the visa category, documentation, individual circumstances and other checks.
If Home Affairs requests biometrics, completing the requirement promptly can help avoid unnecessary delays caused by an outstanding request.
What Should Students and Families Applying from India Do?
The new biometric arrangements are relevant to people preparing Australian visa applications from India.
International Students
If you're planning to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500), prepare your enrolment and other required visa documents carefully.
After lodging the application, check whether Home Affairs requests biometric information.
CG Migration Services provides Student Visa Subclass 500 assistance for eligible applicants planning to study in Australia.
Visitors and Families
People applying to visit relatives or travel to Australia should also monitor their application correspondence.
If biometric collection is requested, follow the instructions issued for the application.
You can learn more about the Visitor Visa services available through CG Migration Services.
Partner and Family Visa Applicants
Applicants considering eligible partner or family visa pathways may also need to complete identity verification steps as part of their applications.
The requirements depend on individual circumstances and the instructions issued by Home Affairs.
CG Migration Services assists with Family and Partner Visa applications, including relevant eligibility and documentation matters.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Providing Biometrics
Biometric collection is generally straightforward when you follow the correct instructions.
A few practical checks can help prevent avoidable issues.
Don't book before checking your request. Wait for the instructions confirming whether you need an appointment or are eligible to use the Australian Immi App.
Don't assume everyone can use the app. Check the Visa Lodgment Number and eligibility conditions first.
Don't attend without your required documents. Confirm your passport and appointment requirements before travelling.
Don't ignore the deadline. If Home Affairs has requested biometrics, follow the timeframe stated in your letter.
Don't confuse biometric collection with visa approval. Completing the biometric step does not determine whether your application satisfies the visa requirements.
You should also be cautious of unofficial agents or websites claiming they can guarantee faster processing or visa approval through biometric services.
How Can Registered Migration Agents in Melbourne Help?
Applying for an Australian visa involves more than completing the online application form.
Depending on the visa category, applicants may need to demonstrate their eligibility, prepare supporting evidence and respond to requests from the Department of Home Affairs.
If you're looking for Registered Migration Agents in Melbourne, CG Migration Services provides advice and assistance across student, visitor, skilled and family visa pathways.
CG Migration Services is led by Registered Migration Agent Gurpreet Cheema (MARN 2217773), based in Caroline Springs, Melbourne.
The team can assist with understanding visa requirements, preparing applications and reviewing Home Affairs correspondence.
Applicants remain responsible for completing any personal biometric collection required by the Department.
You can explore the available Australian Migration Services or contact the team to discuss your situation.
Need Help With Your Australian Visa Application?
If you're preparing an Australian visa application from India, understanding the current requirements can help you plan the process more confidently.
CG Migration Services assists eligible applicants with student, visitor, skilled and family visa matters.
Whether you need help understanding visa eligibility, reviewing supporting documents or responding to application requirements, the team can provide professional migration guidance.
Speak With CG Migration Services
Contact Our Registered Migration Agent
CG Migration Services
Registered Migration Agent: Gurpreet Cheema (MARN 2217773)
Office: CS Hub, Office 7, Level 1/34 Commercial Road, Caroline Springs VIC 3023
Phone: +61 450 409 940
Website: www.cgms.com.au
Information current as at 28 October 2026. This article provides general immigration information and does not constitute personal migration advice. Individual biometric requirements and visa conditions should be confirmed with the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are biometrics mandatory for all Australian visa applicants from India in 2026?
No. From 26 October 2026, applicants lodging new Australian visa applications in India may be required to provide biometrics. Home Affairs will notify applicants who need to complete this step.
What biometric information does Australia collect?
Applicants may be required to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph for identity verification.
When did the new Australian visa biometrics requirements start?
The expanded arrangements for applications lodged in India took effect on 26 October 2026.
Can I use the Australian Immi App instead of visiting VFS Global?
Only if you're eligible. Home Affairs requires an appropriate biometric request letter with a Visa Lodgment Number beginning with AUI and a valid passport.
Do I need biometrics if I applied before 26 October 2026?
The new expansion does not apply retrospectively to previously lodged applications. However, you must comply with any biometric requirements already applicable to your individual application.
Does providing biometrics guarantee an Australian visa?
No. Biometrics help verify identity. The visa application must still satisfy the relevant eligibility requirements and undergo assessment by the Department of Home Affairs.