Australia ETA: photo rejected & NFC failing

Problem 1: the photo/selfie is rejected

Usually about lighting, background or framing. Fixes:

• Even light from the front (avoid shadows and backlight).
• Plain, light background, no objects.
• Face centred, no glasses, cap or big smile; eyes visible.
• Remove screen filters or cases that affect the camera.

Problem 2: the NFC scan fails

The chip is not where people think and phone placement matters. Fixes:

• The chip is usually in the cover or the data page: move the phone slowly over it.
• Remove the case from both phone and passport.
• Hold both still for a few seconds until it confirms.
• On iPhone the NFC reader is at the top back; on Android it is usually in the centre.

If it still fails

• Restart the app and try in good light away from metal.
• Check your passport is biometric (chip symbol on the cover).
• Update the app to the latest version.

Frequently asked questions