Australia has expanded its biometric collection program to include visa applicants applying from India, effective 26 October 2026. Under the new arrangements, certain applicants may be required to provide fingerprints and a facial image as part of the visa application process.

The change is intended to strengthen identity checks, reduce the risk of identity fraud and support the integrity of Australia's immigration system. It comes as travel, education, employment and family connections between Australia and India continue to generate demand for Australian visas.

The Australian High Commission in New Delhi said the requirements apply to new visa applications lodged on or after 26 October. Applications submitted before the effective date and visas already granted are not affected by the expansion.

Who may need to provide biometrics

Applicants will not necessarily be required to provide biometric information automatically. Australia's Department of Home Affairs will notify individuals who need to complete the additional step and provide instructions explaining what they must do.

Biometric information commonly includes fingerprints and a digital image of the applicant's face. These details can help immigration authorities verify identity and check information against relevant records.

The department will determine whether an applicant needs to provide biometrics based on the applicable requirements and individual circumstances. Applicants should therefore wait for an official notification rather than assume that every visa category follows exactly the same process.

Options for submitting biometric information

Applicants who receive a biometric requirement may be directed to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre in person. The centres in India are operated by service providers working with the Australian government.

Some applicants may instead be eligible to use the Australian Immi App to submit their biometric information digitally. Eligibility depends on the department's requirements and the applicant's circumstances.

The government has advised applicants not to book a biometric appointment or attempt to use the app until they receive official instructions. Following the notification is important because the required procedure may differ from one applicant to another.

Applicants should use official Australian government information and authorised service-provider websites when arranging any appointment. They should also be cautious about unofficial agents claiming that additional paid services can guarantee faster processing or a favourable visa decision.

Will visa processing take longer?

The Australian government has said the expansion is not expected to adversely affect visa processing times, provided applicants complete any requested biometric requirements promptly.

However, applicants who receive a notification should respond within the time specified in their instructions. Delays in providing requested information could affect the handling of an individual application.

The new requirements do not themselves guarantee approval or refusal. Applicants must continue to satisfy the relevant visa eligibility criteria, including any requirements concerning documentation, financial capacity, health, character or the purpose of their visit.

Privacy and identity protection

Biometric information is used to help confirm identity, prevent identity misuse and strengthen border security. Australian authorities say biometric information is managed under applicable legislation and privacy safeguards, with personal information securely processed and transmitted.

The expansion brings India into a program already operating across numerous countries. It represents a change to the visa application process for people applying from India, but the exact steps will depend on the instructions issued by the Department of Home Affairs.

Indian travellers planning to visit, study, work or join family in Australia should check the latest official guidance before applying. Applicants who receive a biometric request should follow the instructions carefully, provide the required information promptly and retain relevant correspondence for their records.