Applying for an Australian visa is an exciting step, and the Department of Home Affairs is continually improving the process to make it smoother and more convenient for applicants around the world. One of the newest tools supporting this effort is the Australian Immi App – a simple, secure way for eligible applicants to complete their biometric identity check using only a smartphone.

 

What Is Actually the Australian Immi App?

 

The Australian Immi App is a mobile application created by the Department of Home Affairs to help certain visa applicants complete their biometric identity check without visiting an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC).

 

Who Could Use the Australian Immi App to Complete the Biotetric Identity Check?

 

The Australian Immi App is available for eligible visa applicants to provide their passport details and a facial image in the following countries:

Algeria
Bahrain
Colombia
Egypt
Fiji
France
Greece
Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China)
Iran
Iraq
Jordan
Kuwait
Lebanon
Malaysia
Mexico
New Zealand (third-country nationals)
Oman
Pakistan
Papua New Guinea
Peru
Philippines
Qatar
Samoa
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Solomon Islands
South Africa
South Korea
Thailand
Tonga
Türkiye
Tuvalu
United Arab Emirates
Vanuatu

To provide your identity information using the Australian Immi App you need to have a:

  • Requirement to provide personal identifiers (biometrics) letter with a Visa Lodgement Number (VLN) commencing with AUI (If your VLN does not commence with AUI, you must attend an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) to provide your personal identifiers.)
  • valid passport.

 

How to Download the Australian Immi App?

 

You can download the Australian Immi App can be downloaded from the following stores:

‎Australian Immi App App – App Store

Australian Immi App – Apps on Google Play

 

Device Compatibility Requirements

 

Your smartphone (iOS/Android) device must have a steady mobile or Wi-Fi internet connection and be equipped with the following settings:

  • Allow the Australian Immi App to access your phone camera
  • Near-Field Communication (NFC) enabled
  • Location services made available for the Australian Immi App

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Identity Check

 

Step 1: Provide VLN

 

Your VLN is located on your Requirement to provide personal identifiers (biometrics) letter. The code starts with AUI and includes letters and numbers.

There are two ways you can provide your VLN: scan the barcode on your letter, or manually enter the code.

If you are submitting an identity check for multiple family members, each person will have their own VLN. Make sure you enter the correct VLN for each person.

 

Step 2: Scan passport data page and chip, where required

 

Before you begin using the Australian Immi App, you must enable the NFC capability of your device. You can do this in your phone’s settings.

 

 

  • Open your passport to the personal data page.
  • Position your mobile device over the passport.
  • Make sure you do not obstruct the camera with your fingers, and avoid any glare, reflection or shadows.
  • The red outline will turn green when the passport is in the right spot.
  • A successful scan will contain the entire page including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom.​

 

Read passport chip (if available)

 

 

The chip will be on the front or back cover of the passport depending on the nationality of your passport.

Place your device directly on top of the chip so that it is touching the passport.

 

 

Move your device slowly around the passport until the app recognises the chip. A reading chip message will display on Android devices and a progress bar will display on Apple devices.

At this point, do not move your device until the scan completes.

 

 

Step 3: Confirm passport information

 

 

The information collected from your passport will display on your screen.

You need to review it and confirm the information matches your passport. If it does not, you must rescan your passport.

 

Step 4: Take applicant photo

 

 

During the identity check process, you must take a photo of yourself.

Here are some tips to help you to successfully take a photo to support your identity check:

  • Stand in front of a light-coloured wall
  • Make sure there are no objects in the background
  • Frame your face in the highlighted oval on the screen
  • Face forward and look directly at the camera
  • Have your eyes open and visible
  • Remove your glasses, if practical
  • Avoid shadows on your face
  • Make sure there is nothing covering your face or eyes
  • Make sure there are no other objects or people in the photo

When the device is in the correct position, the red oval turns green, and the photograph is captured automatically.

You will have an opportunity to review your photo and retake it if required.

 

Step 5: Submit your identity check

 

 

  • If you would like to receive an email to confirm the submission of your identity check, enter your email address in the field provided.
  • The Australian Immi App will send your passport details and facial images to the Department of Home Affairs. Your data will not be stored in the Australian Immi App after submission.
  • If an error occurs and your information has not been sent to the department, the Australian Immi App will tell you that you need to capture this information again.
  • Once you have completed all required steps in the app, you will see a final screen confirms your information has been successfully submitted to the department. You do not need to attend an ABCC. If the department needs any more information after you submit your identity check, we will contact you with more instructions.
  • ImmiAccount will be updated within 24 hours of your submission.

 

Need Support With Your Application?

 

The Australian Immi App can make the biometrics process much easier, but it’s completely normal to have questions. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, experiencing technical issues, or simply want guidance to ensure everything is completed correctly, Southern Stone Migration is here to help.

Feel free to reach out to us for personalised assistance with your visa application. We’re committed to making your journey to Australia as smooth and stress‑free as possible.

 

 

 

The information in this article is based on guidance published by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.