Biometrics will be collected using a quick, discreet and non-intrusive process that captures a facial image with a digital camera and a 10-digit fingerprint scan with a digital finger scanner.

To view a short video on how biometrics are collected – please click HERE

Kindly note, clicking on this link, you would be leaving the VFS environment / site following which we would not be responsible nor accountable for the content you view on “You Tube”.

Your face must be clearly visible for a photograph to be taken. This means that you cannot:

	have hair that covers the eyes
	wear a hat or scarf or any other item that obscures the face, hair or neck (with the exception of religious head coverings detailed below).

If you wear a head or neck covering for religious reasons you must ensure your face is clearly visible, from the bottom of your chin to above your eyebrows including both cheeks. If possible both ears should also be displayed. You may also need to remove your glasses when the photograph is taken.

If you have cut or damaged your fingertips, you should visit the  Australian Visa Application Centre when the injury has healed.

If you have a temporary decoration, such as mehndi, you should advise the Australian Visa Application Centre  to determine whether a scan will be possible.

If you refuse to submit your biometric data, your visa application cannot be processed and you will be referred to the Australian mission.

Applicants who are under 15 years of age, persons incapable of providing consent, or those physically unable to provide a fingerprint scan, will only need to provide a facial photograph.

If an applicant is incapable or less than 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian will be asked to give consent and be present when biometrics is collected.

Biometric in Offshore Visa Processing

The Australian Government is introducing biometrics collection into the offshore visa application process.

From 6 December 2010 all clients, regardless of nationality, lodging paper-based visa applications in Zimbabwe will be need to attend an Australian VFS Visa Application Centre in Harare in person to lodge their application and provide their biometrics. A 10-digit fingerprint scan and a facial photograph will be collected.

Visa applicants who are eligible for and are granted an electronic visa will not need to provide biometrics

For a list of visa subclasses that require biometrics to be collected from visa applicants see:

Inclusions list

Some persons are exempt from providing biometrics, for example Heads of State and accredited diplomats. For categories of applicants exempt or excluded from biometric data collection, see:

Exemptions and exclusions

Please note: At this stage clients will not be charged an additional fee for the collection of biometrics.

Applicants under 15 years of age or an incapable person who is unable to provide a fingerprint scan, will only need to provide a facial photograph. If an applicant is incapable or less than 18 years of age, a parent or legal guardian will be asked to give consent and be present when biometrics are collected.

For more information, visit

Frequentely Asked Questions (FAQs)

Your personal identifying information

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