Biometrics for Canada Immigration
Biometrics is the process of taking a photo and fingerprints of candidates that are applying to become Permanent Residents in Canada.
It must be scheduled and done on authorized facilities, as explained below.
Who needs to do the biometrics
Anyone applying to a permanent residence in Canada needs to give biometrics.
Main applicant and all dependents of age between 14 and 79 years, that are also traveling to Canada will need to do it too.
There are some exemptions, but these are for very specific cases, such as head of state and governments.
The need to do biometrics will most likely apply to you.
When to do the biometrics
When you submit your application for permanent residence, you will be asked to pay the biometrics fee.
After that is paid, you will get a letter from IRCC asking you to do the biometrics.
You must then do it within 30 days after you receive the letter.
Where to do the biometrics
If you are outside Canada, you need to go to one of the available Visa Application Centers (VACs) close to you.
This IRCC page has a list of all official locations that can take your biometrics. Use the search tool to look for the ones close to you.
How to do the biometrics
This are the major steps you need to follow to get the biometrics done:
- Pay the biometrics fee when you submit your permanent residence application.
- Receive a letter asking you to do the biometrics. It will be on your IRCC profile (online), and you will get an e-mail alerting you for the new message there.
- Locate a VAC close to you (and that is open) using This IRCC page.
- Call or visit the chosen VAC website and schedule your biometrics.
- Go there on the scheduled day. Take the letter you received asking for biometrics with you. Follow any specific instructions that VAC might have given you.
Biometrics Costs
The biometrics fee costs $CAN 80 for each person. But if your family has more than 2 people (including you), the full price is $CAN 170, no matter how many people are on the family.
Glossary
IRCC - Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. It is the Canadian Government department responsible for all matters related to immigration.
VAC - Visa Application Center. These are offices all around the world that are authorized by the Government of Canada to process visa applications, stamp passports, take biometrics, etc.
Permanent Residence Application - The process of submitting all your documents (ECA, IELTS, proof of funds, etc.) and filling up the online forms to apply for permanent residence in Canada. This can only be done after you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
ITA - Invitation To Apply - After you submit your Express Entry profile, if you have enough points, IRCC will invite you to apply for permanent residence. This invitation is called ITA.
Sources
https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/biometrics.asp
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/biometrics/facts.html
https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/where-to-give-biometrics.asp
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