What Are Biometrics in the Canadian Immigration Context?
Biometrics refer to the collection of fingerprints and a digital photograph as part of the Canadian immigration and visa application process. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses biometric data to verify identity, strengthen border security, and reduce identity fraud.
Since the full rollout of Canada's biometrics program, most foreign nationals applying for a visa, work permit, study permit, or permanent residence are required to provide this information before arriving in Canada.
Who Is Required to Provide Biometrics?
Most applicants aged 14 to 79 must provide biometrics. However, there are notable exceptions:
- Canadian citizens — including dual citizens — are exempt.
- Permanent residents of Canada do not need to enroll.
- Children under 14 and adults 80 and older are exempt from fingerprinting.
- Citizens of the United States are currently exempt from the biometrics requirement for most visitor visa applications.
- Applicants for refugee protection from within Canada have separate procedures.
Which Applications Require Biometrics?
Biometrics are required for the following application types:
- Visitor visas (Temporary Resident Visas)
- Study permits
- Work permits
- Permanent residence applications (most streams)
- Refugee and asylum claims
Note that Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) applicants are generally not required to provide biometrics unless they are also applying for another permit.
How Long Are Your Biometrics Valid?
Once you provide biometrics, they are valid for 10 years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. This means you will not need to re-enroll for every new application during that period, as long as your biometrics are still on file and valid.
How and Where to Provide Biometrics
After submitting your immigration application and paying the biometrics fee, IRCC will send you a Biometrics Collection Letter (also called a Biometric Instruction Letter or BIL). You must bring this letter — along with valid identity documents — to an authorized biometrics collection point, such as:
- A Visa Application Centre (VAC)
- An Application Support Center (ASC) if you are applying from the United States
- Certain Canadian immigration offices abroad
You typically have 30 days from the date of your Biometrics Collection Letter to complete enrollment. Missing this deadline can cause significant delays or refusal of your application.
The Biometrics Fee
As of the most recent fee schedule, the biometrics fee is CAD $85 per person, with a family maximum of CAD $170 for two or more family members applying at the same time. Always verify the current fee on the official IRCC website before applying, as fees can change.
Key Takeaways
- Most applicants aged 14–79 must provide biometrics for Canadian immigration applications.
- You must wait for your Biometrics Collection Letter before booking a collection appointment.
- Biometrics are valid for 10 years — you don't need to re-enroll with every application.
- Missing your enrollment deadline can delay or jeopardize your application.
Always consult the official IRCC website or a regulated immigration consultant for the most up-to-date instructions specific to your situation.