New Delhi: Australia has expanded its biometric collection requirements for visa applicants in India, making fingerprints and a facial image part of the process for people who are notified to provide them.
The new rules came into effect on Monday, October 26, and apply to Australian visa applications lodged on or after that date. Visas already granted and applications submitted before October 26 will not be affected.
The Australian High Commission in India said applicants would be informed by the Department of Home Affairs if they need to provide biometrics. The notification will include instructions on how to complete the process and is generally sent by email to applicants or their authorised agents.
Applicants May Visit Centres or Use Immi App
Depending on their circumstances, applicants may be asked to visit one of 16 Australian Biometrics Collection Centres across India, managed by VFS Global. Some applicants may also be eligible to submit their biometrics through the Australian Immi App.
The High Commission advised applicants to wait for an official biometric requirement letter before booking an appointment or trying to use the app.
It also said the new requirement is not expected to adversely affect visa processing times, provided applicants complete the process promptly after receiving the notification.
Australia Says New Rules Will Strengthen Visa Security
According to the Australian government, expanding biometric collection will help verify applicants’ identities, reduce fraud and protect genuine visa applicants from identity misuse.
The move is part of Australia’s efforts to maintain a secure and reliable visa system as more Indians travel to the country for education, employment, tourism and other purposes.
Australia already collects biometric information from visa applicants in nearly 60 countries. The expansion to India brings the country’s arrangements in line with its existing international practices, while offering eligible applicants a digital option.
The Australian High Commission said biometric information would be handled in accordance with Australian legislation and applicable local laws. Personal information will be processed and transmitted through encrypted channels, with safeguards intended to ensure its secure and lawful handling.
Indian Community Has a Significant Presence in Australia
The Indian community is among the largest and fastest-growing diaspora groups in Australia.
According to figures cited in the supplied statements, around 9.76 lakh people in Australia traced their ancestry to India in the 2021 census. Indian students also form a major group among international students in the country, with 1,22,391 students recorded in September 2023.