By Anjali Sharma
WASHINGTON – The Australian government on Monday has announced the biometric requirements, such as fingerprints and a facial image, for visa applicants in India.
The announcement came after ongoing commitment towards maintaining a secure, efficient and trusted visa system.
Australia said that those registering a new Australian visa application in India might have to provide biometrics, including fingerprints and a facial image.
As per the official details, the new requirements will be applicable to applications lodged on or after October 26 and will not impact visas already granted or applications lodged before that date, Imedia reported.
Australian High Commission in India mentioned in a statement that “Visa applicants will be advised by the Department of Home Affairs, the authority that manages visa processes in Australia, if they are required to provide biometrics and will receive instructions on how to complete this step.”
“Depending on their individual circumstances, applicants may be asked to attend one of 16 Australian Biometrics Collection Centres across India, managed by VFS Global, or may be eligible to use the Australian Immi App. Typically, this advice will be provided to the applicant or their authorised agent via email,” it added.
As per the official statement, the expansion of the biometrics programme will help protect applicants while supporting the strong movement of people between India and Australia.
It added that the Australian government wants the visa application process to remain secure, efficient and trusted as an increasing number of Indians visit, study, work and build connections with Australia.
The biometrics provide a reliable way to verify the identity of a person, besides helping to protect legitimate applicants from misusing identity, reducing fraud and strengthening the integrity of Australia’s migration system.
The Australian High Commission in India said that biometric collection is not expected to impact visa processing time.
“Australia already collects biometrics from visa applicants in nearly 60 countries. Extending the program to India brings our arrangements into line with established international practice while providing eligible applicants with a convenient digital option through the Australian Immi App,” the Australian High Commission in India mentioned in a statement.
“Biometric collection is not expected to adversely affect visa processing times, provided applicants complete the requirements in their notification promptly. Applicants should wait until they receive an official biometrics requirement letter via email before booking an appointment or attempting to use the Australian Immi App,” it added.
