Visa and policy changes
Australia expands biometric checks for visa applicants in India
People applying for Australian visas in India from 26 October 2026 may be asked for fingerprints and a facial image. Home Affairs will contact affected applicants.
What to know
- The change covers new applications lodged in India from 26 October 2026.
- Earlier applications are unaffected by this expansion.
- Home Affairs will specify whether biometrics are needed and how to provide them.
What changed on 26 October
The Australian High Commission in New Delhi announced that new visa applicants in India may need to supply fingerprints and a facial image. Home Affairs will send instructions to applicants who need to complete this step.
A collection centre or the Australian Immi App
Some applicants will attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre. Eligible people who previously supplied biometrics at a centre and hold a valid passport may be offered the Australian Immi App at no cost.
Home Affairs lists India among the countries where eligible applicants can use the app. You need a valid passport and a biometrics request letter with a Visa Lodgement Number (VLN) starting with AUI. If your VLN starts differently, the Department directs you to a collection centre.
Completing the app identity check
The app asks you to enter your VLN, scan your passport, confirm its details and take a live facial photo. Complete every step, including submitting the identity check. Home Affairs says a successful submission means you do not need a centre visit unless it gives you further instructions.
Check your own request letter for the collection method and response period. Keep the passport linked to your application available when completing the identity check.