EdMIUMPlanning to study in Australia? There is an important update to the visa application process that you should know about.
Effective 26 October 2026, Australia has expanded its biometric collection requirements to visa applicants in India. This means students applying for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) may now be asked to provide fingerprints and a facial photograph as part of their application.
The announcement, made by the Australian High Commission in India, is part of Australia’s efforts to strengthen identity verification and improve the security of its visa system.
But does this mean every Indian student needs to submit biometrics? And what should you do if you receive a biometric request?
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the New Australia Visa Biometrics Update?
From 26 October 2026, applicants lodging new Australian visa applications in India may be required to provide biometric information.
Here are the key points:
- The expanded requirements apply to new visa applications lodged from 26 October 2026.
- Applications submitted before this date are not affected by this expansion.
- Not every applicant will necessarily be asked to provide biometrics.
- The Department of Home Affairs will inform applicants if biometric collection is required.
- Depending on eligibility, applicants may visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre or use the Australian Immi App.
Important: You should not book a biometric appointment until you receive official instructions requiring you to provide biometrics.
What Are Biometrics, and Why Does Australia Need Them?
Biometrics are unique physical characteristics that help authorities verify an individual’s identity.
For Australian visa applications, they may include:
- Fingerprint scans: Digital scans of your fingerprints.
- Facial image: A digital photograph used for identity verification.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs uses this information to help prevent identity fraud, verify applicants’ identities and strengthen border security.
Biometric collection is an identity verification process. It is not a visa interview and does not automatically determine whether a visa will be approved.
Is Biometrics Mandatory for Australian Student Visas?
Students applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) from India may be asked to complete biometrics as part of their application.
However, the requirement depends on the instructions issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
After submitting your visa application, check your ImmiAccount and registered email for a biometrics requirement letter.
If you receive one, you must follow the instructions within the specified timeframe.
According to the Department’s Student Visa guidance, applicants who are asked to provide biometrics are generally given 14 days to complete the requirement.
This makes it important to check your messages promptly and arrange any required appointment without unnecessary delay.
How to Complete Australia Visa Biometrics in India
The process is straightforward when you follow the official instructions.
Step 1: Submit Your Australian Visa Application
Complete and lodge your Student Visa (Subclass 500) application through ImmiAccount.
Step 2: Check for a Biometrics Requirement Letter
If biometrics are required, the Department of Home Affairs will issue a notification explaining what you need to do.
Step 3: Follow the Collection Method Assigned to You
Depending on your circumstances and eligibility, you may be instructed to:
- Attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) operated by VFS Global.
- Use the Australian Immi App to complete the identity verification process digitally.
Step 4: Complete the Requirement
If instructed to visit a collection centre, book an appointment and take the required documents, including your valid passport and biometric request letter.
At the centre, staff will capture your facial image and scan your fingerprints.
A service fee applies to collection at an ABCC.
Step 5: Monitor Your Visa Application
After providing your biometrics, continue checking your ImmiAccount for application updates or further instructions.
Completing biometrics does not guarantee visa approval.
Can Students Submit Biometrics Using the Australian Immi App?
Yes, but only eligible applicants can use the app.
The Australian Immi App allows qualifying applicants to provide their passport information and a live facial photograph through a compatible smartphone.
To use the app, you need:
- A biometrics requirement letter with a Visa Lodgement Number (VLN) starting with AUI.
- A valid passport.
- A compatible smartphone with camera access, NFC capability and internet connectivity.
If your VLN does not start with AUI, you must attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre.
Eligible applicants can use the app without paying an ABCC collection fee.
Read the official Australian Immi App instructions.
Where Can You Provide Australian Visa Biometrics in India?
The Department of Home Affairs lists biometric collection locations across India, including:
- Hyderabad
- Chennai
- Bengaluru
- Mumbai
- New Delhi
- Kolkata
- Kochi
- Pune
Additional locations are available.
For students in Visakhapatnam and across Andhra Pradesh, it is important to check the available centres and appointment options before planning travel.
There is currently no Visakhapatnam centre in the Department’s October 2026 published list.
Always confirm the latest centre locations, appointment availability and fees through the official biometric collection instructions.
Will the New Biometrics Requirement Delay Australian Student Visas?
The Australian High Commission has stated that the expanded biometric requirements are not expected to affect visa processing times, provided applicants complete their required biometric checks promptly.
However, individual visa processing times can vary.
Students should monitor their applications regularly, respond to official requests and avoid making non-refundable travel arrangements before their visa is granted.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is biometrics compulsory for every Indian student applying to Australia?
No. Applicants must provide biometrics when instructed by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
2. I applied before 26 October 2026. Will this new requirement affect me?
The expansion applies only to new applications lodged from 26 October 2026. Previously submitted applications are not affected by this expansion, although any existing requirements must still be completed.
3. Can I complete Australian visa biometrics from home?
Only if you are eligible and have been instructed to use the Australian Immi App. Other applicants must attend an authorised collection centre.
4. How much does Australian visa biometrics collection cost?
Australian Biometrics Collection Centres charge a service fee, which should be confirmed through VFS Global. Eligible applicants using the Australian Immi App can complete the process without an ABCC collection fee.
5. Does completing biometrics mean my Australia student visa is approved?
No. Biometrics are only one part of the visa application process. The Department of Home Affairs makes the final visa decision.
Planning to Study in Australia? Get Guidance from EdMIUM
Changes in visa procedures can feel confusing, especially when you’re preparing university applications, financial documents and travel plans.
At EdMIUM, we help students understand their study abroad options and navigate important stages of their Australia education journey.
Whether you’re exploring universities, choosing a course, preparing your application or trying to understand the latest student visa requirements, our team is here to guide you.
Your Australia study journey deserves clarity at every step.
Contact EdMIUM Today
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