What Is the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)?

The Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) — sometimes called a Biometrics Collection Letter — is an official document issued by IRCC after you submit a qualifying immigration application and pay the biometrics fee. It serves as your authorization to visit a designated collection site and have your fingerprints and photo taken. Without this letter, collection sites cannot process you, so it is a critical document in the biometrics enrollment process.

Step 1: Read Your Letter Carefully

Your BIL will include:

  • Your personal information as it appears in your application
  • The deadline by which you must complete biometrics enrollment (typically 30 days from the letter date)
  • Instructions on which type of collection site you should visit based on your location
  • A unique reference number used at the collection site

Confirm all personal details are correct. If there are errors (misspelled name, wrong date of birth), contact IRCC before attending your appointment.

Step 2: Locate Your Nearest Collection Site

Depending on where you are located, you will attend one of the following:

  • Visa Application Centre (VAC) — operated by third-party service providers (such as VFS Global or BLS International) on behalf of IRCC. These are located in countries around the world.
  • Application Support Center (ASC) — operated by USCIS for applicants physically present in the United States.
  • IRCC-designated office — in some cases, applicants within Canada may complete biometrics at a designated location.

Use the official IRCC biometrics collection site finder on Canada.ca to identify the correct and closest location for your situation.

Step 3: Book Your Appointment

Most VAC locations require you to book an appointment in advance — walk-ins may not be accepted or may face long waits. Visit the VAC website for your country to schedule your session. Book as early as possible, especially in busy cities, as appointment slots can fill up quickly and you have a strict deadline to meet.

Step 4: Gather Your Required Documents

Bring the following to your biometrics appointment:

  1. Your Biometric Instruction Letter — printed copy or digital version (confirm with your specific collection site whether digital is accepted)
  2. Valid passport or travel document — must be the same passport used in your immigration application
  3. Any additional documents specified in your BIL or by the collection site

Do not bring children or additional guests unless they also have their own BIL and appointment.

Step 5: Attend and Complete the Biometrics Session

The biometrics collection process is straightforward and usually takes 15–30 minutes. A trained officer will:

  • Verify your identity documents and BIL
  • Scan all ten fingerprints digitally
  • Take a digital photograph

You will receive a confirmation receipt upon completion. Keep this receipt — it is proof that you attended and your biometrics were collected.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the deadline: If you cannot attend within 30 days, contact IRCC immediately. Processing of your application may be suspended or refused if biometrics are not submitted on time.
  • Attending without the BIL: Collection sites will not accept you without the official letter. Never assume you can attend without it.
  • Bringing the wrong passport: Your identity documents must match your application exactly.
  • Assuming previously collected biometrics are still valid: Always check your biometrics expiry before assuming enrollment is unnecessary.

After Your Biometrics Are Collected

Once collected, your biometric data is transmitted securely to IRCC and added to your application file. You do not need to do anything further related to biometrics unless IRCC contacts you. Continue monitoring your IRCC account for updates on the overall status of your application.

Summary

Receiving your BIL means your application is progressing — act on it promptly. Book early, bring the right documents, and meet your deadline. This one step can make a meaningful difference in how smoothly the rest of your immigration process unfolds.