Just A Click Away.
Indian passport, visa and consular services have resumed across Australia through six upgraded Indian Consular Application Centres.
From 23 July 2026, VFS Global began operating the new centres on behalf of the High Commission of India and Indian Consulates. The centres are located in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
The change follows a temporary disruption after the previous service provider stopped accepting public applications on 30 June 2026.
What Services Are Available?
The new Indian Consular Application Centres provide access to services including:
- Indian passport applications and renewals
- Police Clearance Certificates
- Overseas Citizenship of India applications
- Indian visa services
- Document attestation and other consular services
The application process and attendance requirements vary depending on the service. Applicants should check the official VFS Global instructions before booking an appointment or submitting documents.
Who May Be Affected?
The return of these services is particularly relevant to Indian nationals in Australia who need to renew passports, obtain police clearances or access other official documents.
This may include:
- Subclass 500 Student visa holders
- Skills in Demand visa subclass 482 holders
- Permanent visa applicants
- Family members included in Australian visa applications
- Indian nationals planning international travel
This is not a change to Australia’s Student or Skills in Demand visa requirements. However, delays in obtaining a passport or other required documents may affect the timing of an Australian visa application.
Why Does This Matter for Visa Applicants?
Australian visa applicants may be asked to provide current identity, character or civil-status documents, depending on the visa subclass and their individual circumstances.
For example, an applicant may need a current passport or an Indian Police Clearance Certificate before their visa application can be finalised.
Applicants who receive a new passport while an Australian visa application is being processed should update their passport details through ImmiAccount.
Students and sponsored workers whose passports are approaching expiry should also review the renewal process early, particularly if they are planning to travel or lodge another visa application.
Where Are the Six Centres?
The upgraded Indian Consular Application Centres are located in:
- Adelaide
- Brisbane
- Canberra
- Melbourne
- Perth
- Sydney
Applicants should confirm the centre address, appointment availability, required documents and current processing arrangements through the official VFS Global website before attending.
What Should Applicants Do Now?
Applicants who need Indian consular services should:
- Confirm which service and documents are required.
- Locate the nearest Indian Consular Application Centre.
- Review the relevant VFS Global document checklist.
- Book an appointment where required.
- Allow enough time for processing before travelling or lodging a visa application.
A VFS Global service fee may apply in addition to the relevant government application fee.
Key Takeaway
The reopening of Indian consular services is welcome news for Indian nationals living, working or studying in Australia.
Although this is not an Australian visa policy change, restored access to passport renewals, police clearances and other consular documents may help reduce delays for people preparing or progressing Australian visa applications.
Applicants with an upcoming visa lodgement, passport expiry or travel date should review the new arrangements early and ensure their Australian visa records remain up to date.
The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.
Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer
As a regulated Australian migration law practice, Riverwood Migration provides precise, personalised advice on visa strategy, compliance, and application preparation. Speak with our expert legal team. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.
Stay Informed on Australian Immigration Law
- YouTube: Johnny Kong | Migration Lawyer
- Instagram: @johnny_migrationlawyer
- Facebook: Riverwood Migration
- TikTok: @johnny_migrationlawyer
- Linktree: linktr.ee/johnny_lawyer
