1. VFS Global India: Locations & Capacity
As of 2026, VFS Global operates 16 Australian Biometric Collection Centres (ABCC) across India. Due to the high volume of “July Intake” applicants, booking your slot at least 7 days in advance is highly recommended.
Key Hubs & Hours
| City | Location | Hours (Mon-Fri) |
| New Delhi | Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, Connaught Place | 09:00 – 16:00 |
| Mumbai | Mahalaxmi Chambers, Bhulabhai Desai Road | 08:00 – 16:00 |
| Bengaluru | Global Tech Park, Langford Town | 08:00 – 16:00 |
| Hyderabad | Banjara Hills, Road No. 12 | 08:00 – 15:00 |
| Chandigarh | Elante Offices, Industrial Area Phase 1 | 09:00 – 16:00 |
Other locations: Ahmedabad, Chennai, Cochin, Coimbatore, Goa, Gurugram, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Kolkata, Pune, and Puducherry.
2. 2026 Fees & Payment (India)
The biometric collection fee is separate from your visa application charge (VAC).
- Standard Service Fee: ₹2,000 – ₹2,500 (Varies slightly by city/center).
- Optional “Prime Time” Fee: +₹2,800 (For appointments before 08:00 or after 16:00).
- Payment Mode: Most centers are now Digital-First. Payment is made online during the booking process or via UPI/Credit Card at the center. Cash is being phased out in many metro hubs.
3. The “Evidence Level 3” Student Checklist
Under the 2026 integrity settings, VFS staff will strictly verify your identity before data collection. Bring the following:
- [ ] Original Passport: Must have at least 6 months validity.
- [ ] Biometrics Requirement Letter: The PDF from Home Affairs with your VLN number (Must be printed).
- [ ] Appointment Letter: The confirmation email from VFS Global.
- [ ] National ID: While the passport is primary, having your Aadhaar Card or PAN Card is recommended for secondary verification.
4. Critical Updates for 2026 Applicants
The Digital Shift: In early 2026, the Australian Immi App was expanded. If you have provided biometrics in the last 10 years and hold a chip-enabled passport, check your ImmiAccount to see if you are eligible to skip the VFS visit by using smartphone facial recognition.
- Henna & Injuries: In 2026, biometrics are cross matched with Interpol for EL3 applicants. If you have henna (Mehndi) or cuts on your fingertips, the scanner will fail. Wait until your hands are clear before booking, as a failed scan triggers a manual review that can take 30+ days.
- Minor Applicants: Students under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- Typo Alert: If the name on your Biometrics Letter has even a single letter mismatch with your passport, VFS cannot take your prints. You must request a corrected letter via ImmiAccount before your appointment.
5. Beat the July 2026 Intake Rush
- Lodge Visa: By April 15th.
- Book VFS: Within 24 hours of lodgement.
- Status Check: 48 hours after your visit, ensure your ImmiAccount status says, “Biometrics Received.”
