What are Biometrics for Canadian Immigration ?

Immigration Lawyer

UPDATE: Everyone applying for a Visitor Visa, Study Permit, Permanent Residence and Refugee case needs to apply for Biometrics starting December 31, 2018

 

Depending on your nationality, you may already need to give your biometrics.

  • Since July 31, 2018 – applicants from Europe, Middle East and Africa

  • Starting December 31, 2018 – applicants from Asia, Asia Pacific and the Americas

Who needs to give their fingerprints and photo (biometrics)

Generally, you need to give biometrics if you apply for:

  • a visitor visa
  • a work or study permit (excluding U.S. nationals)
  • permanent residence
  • refugee or asylum status

How often you need to give your fingerprints and photo

Visitor visa, study and work permit applicants

You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years. You don’t need to give your biometrics again until the 10-year period expires.

If you gave biometrics in the past as part of an application for a visitor visa, work or study permit and they’re still valid, you don’t need to give them again.

Find out if your biometrics are still valid and when they expire by using the Check Status Tool.

As of December 31, 2018 the Biometrics fees is :

 

Biometrics Fee

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Biometrics-Factsheet-EN
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