Biometrics collection is now easier within’ Canada

Foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa, work or study permit will now be able to give their biometrics within’ Canada. Applicants can have their fingerprints and photo taken at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country.

“Fingerprints and photo collection are recognized as one of the most reliable ways to identify people and are used by more than 70 countries worldwide. We will enhance the efficiency and integrity of the immigration system in Canada,” said Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Marco E. L. Mendicino.

The government is now in the final phase of its biometrics collection program, a process that began in December last year. 

As part of the program, if applicants receive a biometrics instruction letter, they can apply online or by paper and schedule an appointment at Service Canada via canada.ca/biometrics.

Applicants, including those in Canada, who will be traveling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter. Worldwide, Canada has 160 VAC locations in 108 countries.

While most applicants do have to submit their biometrics, there are some exemptions to the requirement, including applicants under 14 or over 79 years of age; U.S. nationals coming to visit, work or study temporarily in Canada; and lawful permanent residents of the U.S. coming to visit only.

For further information about having biometrics collected, visit Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Further reading “First candidates selected under Express Entry become permanent residents“

* (Featured image: IRCC)