Applicants for a new Australian visa in India may now be asked for fingerprints and a facial image. The step is simple if you are ready for it: watch your email, respond promptly and keep your application details accurate
The Australian High Commission in India has announced that, from October 26, 2026, people applying for an Australian visa in India may be required to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a facial image. The Department of Home Affairs decides who is asked, and applicants who are will receive instructions by email. The change applies only to new applications lodged on or after October 26, 2026.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Start date: October 26, 2026, for new visa applications made in India
- What is collected: Fingerprints and a facial image
- Who is asked: Applicants "may be required" to provide biometrics. The Department of Home Affairs decides who must and sends instructions by email to the applicant or their authorised agent
- How it is done: At an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (reported as 16 centres across India, run by VFS Global), or through the Australian Immi App for eligible applicants
- What is not affected: Applications lodged before October 26, 2026 and visas already granted
- Processing times: The High Commission says biometric collection is not expected to adversely affect visa processing times
- Why it was introduced: According to the High Commission, biometrics help verify identity, reduce fraud and support a secure and efficient visa system. It notes that Australia already collects biometrics from applicants in nearly 60 countries
- What has not been stated: The announcement and the reports reviewed do not say which visa types are covered, including whether student visa applicants will be asked, and do not mention any fee
What this means for applicants
For students, the practical point is timing. Biometrics are collected after the application is lodged and once Home Affairs sends its instructions, so a delay in responding could delay the application. The High Commission's statement that processing times should not be affected assumes applicants complete the step promptly.
Because the instructions go to the applicant's email or their authorised agent, the contact details on the application matter. An incorrect or rarely checked email address could mean a missed request.
Not every applicant will necessarily be asked, and the announcement does not say how Home Affairs decides. Students planning to apply for an intake in 2027 should expect that they may need to attend a centre or use the Immi App, and plan for it.
What you can do
- Use an email address on your application that you check daily, and tell your agent or consultant if you want to be copied on any Home Affairs messages.
- Wait for the official biometrics requirement letter from Home Affairs before booking an appointment or using the app.
- When the request arrives, complete it promptly and keep the letter and confirmation for your records.
- Keep your passport valid and with you, and keep your name and personal details consistent across your application and documents.
- Plan some extra time for travel to a collection centre if you do not live near one, and build that into your timeline for a visa decision.
- Do not rely on social media summaries. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the current biometrics instructions.
IRS Study Abroad, Kottayam, supports Australia-bound students from application to visa lodgement. Our team keeps your contact details accurate, tracks Home Affairs requests and helps you complete each step, including biometrics, on time.
Sources: Australian High Commission, India, announcement of October 26, 2026, as reported by The Statesman, Asianet Newsable and The Shillong Times. Details of who is asked and how are set by the Department of Home Affairs; check immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for current requirements.
