Biometrics Collection: Frequently Asked Questions
When you apply for a visitor visa, work or study permit, permanent residence, refugee or asylum status, or extension of visitor record in Canada, you are typically required to give your biometrics to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
There are a few exceptions on the requirement to give biometrics for a Canadian visa application. For example, children under the age of 14 do not need to give their biometrics.
There are also other exemptions that are specific to your local visa office or certain situations. Find out if you need to give your biometrics for your application by using this online tool: https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp
IF you are required to submit your biometrics, make sure to have it done as soon as you can. Normally, IRCC will not start processing your application until you give your biometrics. To avoid delays on your application, complete biometrics requirement right away.
Here is a step-by-step list on the biometrics submission process laid out for you:
1. Find out if you need to submit biometrics. If you are, proceed to the next step.
2. At the time you submit your application, pay the biometrics fee along with the application fee. The biometrics fee per person costs CAD 85. There are rates specific to families and for groups. For more information, consult this IRCC page please visit: https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/fees/fees.asp
3. After paying the biometrics fee and submitting your application, you will receive a biometrics instruction letter from IRCC. This letter will serve as confirmation that you paid the biometrics fee.
4. Once you receive your biometrics instruction letter, you can book an appointment with an IRCC designated biometrics collection site. These biometrics collection sites usually have an online booking platform for your convenience. You can find the full list of those collection sites using the link below:
https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/where-to-give-biometrics.asp
5. On the day of your biometrics collection appointment, you must bring your biometrics instruction letter and your passport or travel document.
6. The biometrics collection should not take longer than a few minutes. After you have your photo taken and your fingerprints scanned, you should be good to go.
I Already Gave My Biometrics Before – Do I Have to Do It Again?
· Generally, you do not need to give your biometrics if you already gave it within the last ten (10) years. There are exceptions. Consult the IRCC website for more information.
If I’m in A Country Other Than My Country of Citizenship or Residence, Can I Do It There?
· Yes. You can give your biometrics to any of IRCC’s designated biometrics collection sites. Visit https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/where-to-give-biometrics.asp to find biometrics collection sites near your location.
Giving your biometrics to the IRCC is an important part of your application. You can read more on IRCC’s biometrics collection process here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/how-to-give-biometrics.html