Australia Expands Biometric Requirements For Indian Student Visa Applicants: What You Need To Know
Indian students may be asked to provide fingerprints and a facial image for the processing of visa applications submitted after October 26
NEW DELHI: Indian students eager to pursue higher education in Australia have to now comply with the biometric requirement rules introduced for the student visa from October 26, 2026.
As part of the revised norms, Indian students seeking Australian visa for higher studies may be asked to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a facial image, as part of the application process.
The biometric requirement is applicable for nearly 60 countries, including India. The Australian authorities say that the norms have been revised to strengthen the security and reliability of its visa system.
The new requirement will apply only to fresh visa applications submitted after October 26 and will not affect the applications already filed.
The Department of Home Affairs will inform the applicants if they need to provide biometrics and share instructions on how to complete the process.
Depending on individual circumstances, students may be required to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) in person or submit their biometric information digitally through the Australian Immi App, an official notification said.
To view the official notification, click here.
Applicants who have previously provided their biometrics at an ABCC and hold a valid passport may be eligible to use the Australian Immi App to complete the process at no additional cost.
The Department of Home Affairs has clarified that biometric information will be collected, stored and managed in accordance with Australian legislation and applicable local laws, with privacy and data protection safeguards in place.