Key takeaways
- The requirement applies to Australian visa applications lodged in India on or after 26 October 2026. Earlier applications and granted visas are not affected.
- Not everyone is asked. Home Affairs tells you by letter if you need to give biometrics, usually by email after you lodge.
- You give fingerprints and a facial image at one of 16 Australian Biometrics Collection Centres run by VFS Global, or in some cases through the Australian Immi app.
- The Australian High Commission says biometrics should not slow processing if you complete them promptly.
On 26 October 2026 the Australian High Commission in New Delhi announced that biometric collection now extends to visa applicants in India. People in India who lodge a new Australian visa application on or after that date may be asked to provide fingerprints and a facial image. The announcement refers to new visa applications in general, so skilled, student, visitor and family applicants in India can all be asked.
How you will know if you need biometrics
You lodge your visa online in ImmiAccount as before. If biometrics are needed, the Department of Home Affairs sends a biometrics request letter, usually by email. Do not book an appointment or use the app until you have that letter, because the letter tells you which route you can use.
Two ways to give biometrics
| Route | Who can use it | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (VFS Global) | Anyone asked for biometrics | Book an appointment at one of 16 centres in India, including pop-up centres in Panaji and Puducherry. Take the passport you used in your application and your letter. VFS charges a service fee. |
| Australian Immi app | Only if the Visa Lodgement Number on your letter starts with AUI, you hold a valid passport and you have given biometrics at a centre before | Scan your passport chip with an NFC-enabled phone and take a live photo. No charge, and no centre visit. |
Practical points
- Use the same passport you used in your visa application.
- Each family member in the application may receive their own request. Children under 18 must attend with a parent or guardian.
- You can ask for a private room and a staff member of the same gender if you need to remove a religious head covering.
- Heavy mehndi on the fingertips can stop fingerprints from being read. Check with VFS before your appointment.
- Complete the request quickly. The High Commission says processing should not be delayed if you do.
- Paid optional services offered by providers do not speed up processing or change the outcome. Follow the instructions in your Home Affairs letter.
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General information only, not advice for your situation. Rules, fees and deadlines change; we confirm what applies at your consultation.
Frequently asked questions
When did biometrics start for Australian visa applicants in India?
Does everyone have to give biometrics?
Where do I give biometrics in India?
Can I use the Australian Immi app instead?
Is there a fee?
Will biometrics delay my visa?
I lodged before 26 October 2026. Am I affected?
Official sources
- Australian High Commission, India — Biometric collection requirements for Australian visa applicants in India
- Department of Home Affairs — Biometrics
- Department of Home Affairs — Australian Immi app
- VFS Global — Australia visa services in India
General information only, current at the date shown. It is not immigration advice for your circumstances. Information on this site is general guidance only and not legal, migration or investment advice. Rules, fees and occupation lists change frequently — always confirm current requirements with the relevant government authority before acting.
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Who will assist you
Sumit Kumar
Chartered Accountant & Australian Registered Migration Agent · MARN 1803385
I migrated from India to Melbourne as a skilled migrant in 2005 and became an Australian citizen in 2010, so I know first-hand what it takes to rebuild a career and a life in a new country — the paperwork and the waiting, and also the job search, the loneliness and the pressure of starting over far from home. Since 2013 I have advised individuals, families and businesses on migration and cross-border moves, combining migration casework with a Chartered Accountant's view of tax, funds and business structure.
