News · Australia · 28 Oct 2026
Australia Expands Biometric Collection Requirements for Visa Applicants in India from 26 October 2026
Published: 28 October 2026 Category: Visa & Immigration News Target Audience: Indian travellers, students, tourists and visa applicants Australia has expanded its biometric collection requirements for visa applicants in India, effective from 26 October 2026. Under the updated process, applicants may be required to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph as part of their Australian visa application. The Australian High Commission in New Delhi confirmed the change as part of the government's efforts to maintain a secure and reliable visa system. <Link url="https://india.highcommission.gov.au/ndli/vm_Biometric_collection_requirements_for_Australia_visa_applicants_in_India.html" title="Read the official announcement"/>.
What Has Changed?
Under the expanded requirements, the Australian Department of Home Affairs will notify applicants who need to provide biometrics and explain how to complete the process. Effective date: 26 October 2026. Biometric information: Fingerprints and a facial image. Who is affected: Applicants lodging new Australian visa applications in India on or after the effective date who are instructed to provide biometrics. Where to submit: An Australian Biometrics Collection Centre operated by VFS Global, or through the Australian Immi App if eligible. Existing applications: Applications lodged before 26 October 2026 are not affected by this change.
How Can Applicants Provide Biometrics?
Applicants will receive instructions from the Department of Home Affairs if biometric collection is required. Depending on their circumstances, they may be directed to attend an appointment at a designated centre or use the Australian Immi App if eligible. Eligible applicants who have previously provided biometrics at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre and hold a valid passport may be able to use the app free of charge. Applicants should wait for official instructions before booking an appointment or attempting to submit biometrics through the app.
Is There a Biometric Collection Fee?
Applicants attending a biometric collection centre may need to pay a service fee. The exact amount should be confirmed through the official VFS Global booking process. The fee of ₹1,425 shown in some promotional graphics should not be treated as a universally applicable charge without confirmation.
Will This Affect Visa Processing Times?
According to the Australian High Commission, visa processing times are not expected to be affected, provided applicants complete any required biometric procedures promptly. Applicants should monitor their ImmiAccount and follow all instructions issued by the Department of Home Affairs to avoid unnecessary delays.
Holymount Travel & Leisure Advisory
Holymount Travel & Leisure recommends that Indian applicants planning to travel to Australia carefully review their visa instructions and prepare to complete biometric requirements if requested. Before visiting a biometric collection centre, applicants should confirm their appointment requirements, service charges and accepted documents through official channels.
Official Resources
Australian High Commission: https://india.highcommission.gov.au/ Australian Department of Home Affairs: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/biometrics VFS Global: https://www.vfsglobal.com/ This article is based on the official Australian High Commission announcement available on 26 October 2026. Applicants should refer to official government instructions for individual requirements.