Do You Need to Submit Biometrics to Stay in Canada?

Who Needs to Provide Biometrics?

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires biometrics from applicants aged 14 to 79 who are applying for or requesting:

• Canadian temporary residence (excluding U.S. nationals)
• Canadian permanent residence (including U.S. nationals)
• Refugee protection
  
  

What are Biometrics?

Biometrics are used to confirm your identity and include:

• Biographic Data: Your name, date of birth, and other details from your passport or travel document.
• Fingerprints: Captured electronically during your biometrics appointment.
• Photograph: A digital photo taken during the appointment.
  
  

Who Needs Biometrics?

1. Permanent Residence Applicants:

You need to provide biometrics each time you apply for permanent residency, even if you've given them before. This applies if you are:

• Applying for a permanent resident visa.
• Requesting to stay in Canada as a permanent resident.
• Applying for a new permanent resident card for the first time if you were exempt from biometrics when you were under 14.
  
  

2. Temporary Residence Applicants:

Temporary residents need to provide biometrics if they are applying for:

• A temporary resident visa.
• An extension to remain in Canada as a temporary resident.
• A temporary resident permit.
• Restoration of temporary resident status.
• A work permit or study permit (including renewals).

If you've previously given your biometrics, you might not need to do so again for temporary residence applications. However, since IRCC cannot issue visas or permits beyond 10 years from your last biometrics submission, you may voluntarily provide them if you plan to extend your stay past this period.

Biometrics Fees:

• Individual: $85
• Families applying together: Maximum of $170
• Groups of 3 or more performing artists and staff: Maximum of $255
• No fee for transit visas.
  
  

Where to Submit Biometrics:

Biometrics are collected in person by appointment at:

• Visa Application Centres (VAC)
• Service Canada Centres (inside Canada only)
• U.S. Application Support Centres (ASC) (inside the U.S. only)

Make sure to use the official IRCC website to book your appointment to avoid fraud. Appointments are free after paying your application fee.

Exemptions from Biometrics:

Some people are exempt from providing biometrics, including:

• Canadian citizens or those applying for citizenship (including passport applicants)
• Existing permanent residents
• Visa-exempt nationals visiting Canada
• Heads of state or government
• Applicants for diplomatic or official visas
• U.S. visa holders transiting through Canada
• Children under 14 and applicants over 79 (unless seeking asylum)
  
  

How is Your Biometric Data Used?

Your biometrics will be encrypted and sent to a secure government database, shared with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and used by the Canada Border Services Agency to verify your identity. IRCC may also share this data with Canadian and foreign law enforcement, in accordance with privacy laws.

What if You Can’t Submit Biometrics on Time?

If you can't get an appointment within the 30-day deadline after receiving your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), use the IRCC web form to request an extension. You’ll need to provide a screenshot of your appointment confirmation and explain why you couldn’t book an earlier slot. Extensions are not guaranteed, so plan accordingly.