NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 31/INDIAN ABROAD NEWSDESK
People applying for Australian visas in India may be required to provide fingerprints and facial photographs under new biometric requirements introduced from October 26, 2026, by Australia’s Department of Home Affairs.
The new measures are aimed at strengthening identity verification, preventing identity fraud and improving the security of Australia’s immigration and border management systems.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, applicants who are required to provide biometric information will receive instructions by email explaining how to complete the process. Depending on their eligibility, they may be asked to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) or use the Australian Immi App.
Biometric collection involves taking a digital photograph of the applicant’s face and scanning all 10 fingerprints. The information is used to verify identity and may be compared with previously stored biometric records when a person applies for another visa or enters Australia.
The department said biometric information is stored in a secure database accessible only to authorised officers. It may also be checked with Australian and international agencies to verify an applicant’s identity, criminal history and immigration records.
The new requirements apply only to visa applications lodged from October 26, 2026. Applications submitted before that date will not be affected by the changes.
For applicants required to attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre outside Australia, appointments must be booked in advance. VFS Global operates these centres on behalf of the Australian Government in a number of countries and charges a separate service fee for biometric collection.
Applicants attending appointments must carry their valid passport or other specified travel document, along with the appointment letter where applicable.
The Department of Home Affairs has clarified that biometric collection for applications lodged within Australia is also conducted by appointment. Applicants receive an official invitation or letter explaining when and where they must attend.
The department’s biometric procedures also provide arrangements for applicants who have temporary injuries affecting their face or fingerprints, as well as those who require privacy or assistance during collection.
The changes form part of Australia’s broader immigration identity verification system, under which biometric information is collected, stored and used in accordance with the Migration Act and the Privacy Act.
