Australia Visa Rules Change: Indian Applicants May Need Biometrics From October 26; New Limits On Switching To Student Visas
Indian applicants may now have to give fingerprints and a facial image for Australian visas, and most temporary visa holders can no longer switch to a student visa onshore.
Photo: Drechmeria-RBGV / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Pune, 29th October 2026: If you’re in Pune and planning to study in Australia, or just visit, two recent rule changes are worth knowing about. From October 26, 2026, Australia has extended its biometric requirements to Indian visa applicants. And since October 2, most people on temporary visas can no longer switch to a student visa from inside Australia.
Biometrics
According to the Australian High Commission, Australia is extending biometric collection to nearly 60 countries, India among them. For applications lodged from October 26, you may be asked to give fingerprints and a facial image. Applications filed before that date aren’t affected.
Not everyone will be asked. The Department of Home Affairs will contact you if you need to do it and tell you how. Depending on your case, that could mean a visit to an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre, or doing it digitally on the Australian Immi App. If you’ve given biometrics at a collection centre before and your passport is valid, you may be able to use the app for free. Australia says processing times shouldn’t be affected as long as you complete the step quickly.
No more “visa hopping”
Since October 2, people on most temporary visas, such as Working Holiday Maker or Skills in Demand visas, generally have to apply for a student visa from outside Australia. There are exceptions for certain PhD and school students, government-sponsored students, and students who need more time to finish their current course.
Switching colleges has also become harder. Students now generally need to complete 12 months of their main course before moving to another provider, up from six months. That rule stays until June 30, 2027.
What students here should keep in mind
Apply well before your intake and keep a close eye on emails from Home Affairs. Choose your course and institution carefully, because changing later is no longer simple. And stick to official websites and registered agents; anyone promising a “guaranteed” visa is a red flag.
India is the second-largest source of international students in Australia after China, accounting for about 16% of the 6.88 lakh international students in the year to June 2026.
Also read: US midterm elections 2026 explained. For more on studies and careers, visit our Education section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian applicants need biometrics for an Australian visa?
From October 26, 2026, Indian applicants may be asked to give fingerprints and a facial image. The Department of Home Affairs will inform you if it is required.
Can I switch to a student visa while in Australia?
Since October 2, 2026, most temporary visa holders must apply for a student visa from outside Australia, with some exceptions.
How long must I study before changing colleges in Australia?
Students must generally complete 12 months of their principal course before transferring to another provider.
