“The Australian Biometric Collection Centre in Phuket makes it easier and more convenient for visa applicants,” explained Australian Ambassador to Thailand Dr Angela Macdonald in a statement on Tuesday (Apr 22).
“Previously people needed to travel to Bangkok or Chiang Mai to provide biometrics, so this is excellent news,” she said.
"The Australian Biometric Collection Centre in Phuket is operated by VFS Global, and from today (Apr 22), VFS Global are accepting bookings for biometric collection appointments occurring on or after Apr 29," the statement read.
To make an appointment at the centre, visit the VFS Global website.
The centre is located at the office of the Australian Consulate-General in Phuket:
Australian Biometric Collection Centre
CCM Complex Building
77/77 Moo 5, Chalerm Phrakiat Rama 9 Road (bypass road)
Ratsada, Muang District, Phuket, Thailand 83000
Facilities are available at all VFS Global offices for visa applicants to lodge and pay for their Australian visa application online.
At the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit last month, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced an AUS$1.1 million package to improve visa access to Australia from Southeast Asia, including from Thailand.
For Thai travellers, Business Visitor visa validity has been extended to up to five years. Later this year, the Frequent Traveller stream will also include Thailand, providing for 10-year visas for business and leisure purposes.
“These measures send a clear signal that Australia is open for business, tourism and trade,” Ambassador Macdonald said.
The announcement on Tuesday came just one day before Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong confirming the posting of Kirsten Fletcher as the new Australian Consul-General for Phuket and nearby provinces.