Australia has introduced new biometric rules for Indian visa applicants effective October 26, 2026. Under the updated Australia visa rules 2026, some people applying for a new Australian visa may need to provide their fingerprints and a facial image. The Department of Home Affairs will inform applicants if they need to complete this step.
What Are Australia’s New Visa Rules for Indians in 2026?
Australia has expanded its biometric collection process to India and nearly 60 other countries to maintain a secure, efficient and trusted visa system. Under the new Australia visa biometric requirements, some applicants will need to submit their fingerprints and a facial image. These details help Australian authorities confirm a person’s identity and help protect against identity fraud.
Applicants who need to provide biometrics will receive instructions on how and where to complete the process. The government wants to improve visa security while keeping the application process smooth for travellers.
Who Needs to Submit Biometrics for an Australia Visa?
The new Australia visa rules for 2026 apply to new visa applications lodged in India on or after October 26, 2026. However, this does not mean that every Indian applicant must provide biometrics. The Department of Home Affairs will inform applicants if they need to submit their fingerprints and facial image. They may receive an email directly or through their authorised agent.
Existing Australian visa holders are not affected by this change. The new rules also do not affect visa applications lodged before October 26, 2026. Indian travellers applying for visitor, student, work or other Australian visas should carefully check their application instructions to see whether biometric collection applies to them.
How Can Indian Applicants Submit Biometrics for an Australian Visa?
Indian applicants who receive a biometric request can complete the process through an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) or the Australian Immi App, depending on their eligibility.
Submit Biometrics at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre
Applicants who need to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre must follow the instructions in their biometric request letter. At the centre, authorised staff collect the required fingerprints and facial image for identity verification. Applicants must bring the valid passport linked to their visa application and any other documents mentioned in their instructions.
Applicants must book an appointment before visiting an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre and should follow the instructions in their biometric request letter.
Collection centres charge a service fee for biometric collection. Applicants should check the applicable charges and appointment requirements before visiting.
Submit Biometrics Through the Australian Immi App
Eligible applicants can use the Australian Immi App to submit their passport details and a live facial image digitally without visiting a collection centre. This option may be available to applicants who previously provided their biometrics at an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre and hold a valid passport.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, eligible applicants need a letter requesting personal identifiers (biometrics) containing a Visa Lodgement Number (VLN) that begins with AUI. Applicants whose VLN does not begin with AUI must attend a collection centre instead.
The app allows eligible users to scan their passport details, read their passport chip if available, capture a facial image and submit their identity information using a compatible smartphone. Applicants should follow the official app instructions and ensure their device meets the technical requirements.
Australia Visa Biometrics Fees: Is the Process Free?
The cost of Australia visa biometrics in India depends on how applicants submit their information. Applicants who visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre must pay the applicable biometric collection service fee. The amount depends on the applicable service fee.
However, eligible applicants who use the Australian Immi App can complete their biometric identity submission at no cost. It is important to remember that this free digital option does not mean the Australian visa application itself is free. Applicants must still pay the relevant visa application charges and any other applicable fees.
Travellers should refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website and authorised collection centres for the latest fee information.
Will Australia’s New Biometric Rules Affect Visa Processing Times?
The Australian High Commission has stated that the expanded biometric requirements are not expected to affect visa processing times if applicants complete the requested steps promptly. However, applicants who delay submitting their fingerprints or facial image may experience delays in processing their applications.
To avoid unnecessary delays, travellers should check their email, follow the instructions in their biometric request letter and complete the process as early as possible. Applicants can also track their visa application status through ImmiAccount, the Australian government’s online visa application system.
The new biometric requirements do not guarantee faster visa approvals. Processing times can still vary depending on the visa type, application details and individual circumstances.
Australia’s new visa biometric rules, effective October 26, 2026, may require selected Indian applicants to provide additional identity information. Travellers should follow official instructions and complete biometric requirements promptly to avoid unnecessary delays. For more information, applicants can visit the Australian High Commission’s official announcement or the Department of Home Affairs’ Australian Immi App guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are biometrics mandatory for all Indian Australian visa applicants in 2026?
No. Not every applicant must submit biometrics. The Department of Home Affairs will inform individuals if they need to provide fingerprints and a facial image.
When did Australia’s new biometric rules come into effect?
The expanded biometric requirements took effect on October 26, 2026, for new Australian visa applications lodged in India.
Do existing Australian visa holders need to submit biometrics?
No. The change does not affect existing valid Australian visas. It also does not apply to visa applications lodged before October 26, 2026.
Can Indian applicants submit Australian visa biometrics digitally?
Eligible applicants can use the Australian Immi App to submit passport information and a live facial image. Others must visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre if instructed to do so.
Is the Australian Immi App free to use?
Yes. Eligible applicants can use the Australian Immi App without paying an additional biometric collection fee. Regular visa application fees still apply.
What documents should applicants carry to a biometric appointment?
Applicants should bring the valid passport linked to their visa application and any other documents specified in their biometric request letter or appointment instructions.
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