On 24 September 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs is launching an exciting new tool that promises to make visa applications smoother and faster: the Australian Immi App. This free mobile app offers a self-service option for applicants to submit their facial image and passport details directly from their phone, reducing the need to visit an Australian Biometric Collection Centre (ABCC) for subsequent visa applications.

Why Is This Important?

The Australian Immi App is designed to make the visa process more efficient and affordable by offering a digital alternative to in-person appointments. Instead of waiting for a biometric appointment and travelling to a collection centre, eligible applicants can now submit their biometrics as soon as they lodge their visa application. This new process has the potential to speed up visa processing times significantly.

In addition, using the app is completely free, eliminating the costs associated with travelling to an ABCC.

How Does It Work?

Once eligible applicants submit their visa application, they will receive correspondence from the Department of Home Affairs, offering the option to use the app or visit an ABCC. If they choose to use the app, they’ll be able to:

• Scan the biographic page of their passport

• Read the passport’s e-chip (where available)

• Capture a facial image and upload it instantly

The app simplifies the entire process, making it easier and faster for applicants to complete their visa requirements from the comfort of their home.

Who Can Use the Australian Immi App?

To use the app, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• They must have previously provided their biometrics at an ABCC

• They must hold a valid passport

Interestingly, even children under five years old—whether they have attended an ABCC or not—are eligible to use the app for facial biometrics and passport details.

Where Is the App Available?

The initial release of the Australian Immi App will be available to visa applicants in:

• Fiji

• Papua New Guinea

• Samoa

• Tonga

• Third-country nationals in New Zealand

After the app is evaluated, the Department plans to expand its use in early 2025 to all countries where biometrics are currently collected.

Why This Matters

This digital leap means fewer delays, less hassle, and lower costs for visa applicants. The app brings flexibility and efficiency to the process, allowing eligible applicants to manage their biometrics remotely and at their convenience.

Stay tuned for further updates as this innovative solution rolls out globally in 2025!

For the latest developments in Australian visa processes, keep following our blog at One Planet Migration Law—your trusted source for immigration insights and support.

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Note: The information provided in this article is meant for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and useful information, the nuances of Australian immigration law demand personalised advice from legal professionals. Given the dynamic nature of migration regulations, it is essential to consult with experienced immigration experts for up-to-date insights tailored to your individual circumstances. We strongly advise seeking professional guidance to navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law effectively and to achieve the most favorable outcomes for your immigration journey.