When you think of immigration, passports, visas, and endless paperwork usually come to mind. But did you know that something as simple as Canada Biometric Requirements?
Biometrics have become a key step in Canada’s security and immigration process, ensuring identity verification and faster, safer application handling.Whether you’re applying for a study permit, work visa, or permanent residence, understanding biometric requirements is the first move toward a smooth entry into Canada. And here’s the blog that covers all you need to know about biometric requirements for Canada immigration, let’s go!
Table Of Content
1Canada Biometric Requirements2Who Needs to Provide Biometrics for a Canada Visa?3Canada Biometric Service Points4Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Biometrics Appointment5Conclusion6Frequently Asked Questions
Canada Biometric Requirements
Canada biometrics requirements are essential for most visa and permit applications. Biometrics include your fingerprints and a digital photograph, collected to confirm your identity, detect fraud, and maintain the integrity of the immigration system.
1. Your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
After you pay the biometric fees for Canada in India and submit the visa application, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will send you a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).
This letter confirms you need biometrics, provides instructions on how and where to book biometric appointment for Canada, and must be presented at your appointment.
Each BIL is tied to the specific application; using a BIL from an old application may cause delays or rejection of your current application.
2. A Valid Passport or Travel Document
You must show your current valid passport at your biometrics appointment.
Asylum claimants or protected persons without a passport may present a refugee protection identity document or a certified copy of their passport with a photo.
3. Any Other Documents Specified in Your BIL
Your BIL may list additional, case-specific required documents (such as invitation letters or legal documents) that you must bring to the appointment.
4. Proof You Booked the Appointment
Most Visa Application Centres (VACs) require an appointment booking confirmation, either printed or on your mobile device.
5. VAC Service Fee Receipt (if applicable)
Some centres charge a service fee for biometric application processing, which is separate from the government biometric fee.
You may need to show your payment receipt at the VAC.
6. Government-Issued ID
Some VACs also require another official government photo ID in addition to your passport (check your BIL for this requirement).
7. Previous Biometrics Confirmation (if applicable)
For temporary visas (visitor, study, work), biometrics are valid for 10 years. If you have already provided biometrics during this period, you generally don’t need to give them again, unless you apply for Canada PR, which always requires fresh biometrics.
Who Needs to Provide Biometrics for a Canada Visa?
Unless you fall under an exemption, you’ll need to submit your Canada biometric requirements, like fingerprints and photo, when applying for:
- A visitor visa
- An initial work or study permit or an extension (except for U.S. nationals)
- An extension of your stay in Canada (visitor record), unless you’re from a visa-exempt country
- If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you don’t need biometrics when extending your stay.
- Permanent residence
- A new PR card, if you were exempt earlier because of your age (e.g., you were 13 or younger at the time of your PR application)
- Refugee or asylum status
- Temporary resident applications
If You’ve Already Given Biometrics
- You might not need to provide biometrics again when reapplying.
- Canada cannot issue a visa or permit valid for more than 10 years from the date you last gave biometrics.
- If you’d like your visa or permit to extend beyond the validity of your current biometrics, you can voluntarily submit them again, even if they are still valid.
Applicants Using Travel Documents Other than Passports
If you’re planning to Migrate to Canada from India and applying under any of the following categories, you must provide biometrics, no matter which country issued your documents.
- A refugee travel document
- A certificate of identity
- A valid U.S. Refugee Travel Document (alien’s passport) with proof of lawful permanent resident status (for U.S. green card holders only)
Who is Exempt from Biometrics?
You do not need to give biometrics if you are:
- A Canadian citizen or applying for citizenship (including passport applicants)
- An existing permanent resident
- A visa-exempt national visiting Canada
- A head of state or government
- An applicant with a diplomatic or official visa
- A U.S. visa holder transiting through Canada
- An applicant for a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit who has already provided biometrics for a PR application that is still in process
- A child under 14 years of age
- An applicant 80 years or older (note: this exemption does not apply to asylum claimants)
Age Considerations
Canada biometric requirements follow the Canada biometrics age limit, which is determined by your age at the time you submit your application.
- Children aged 13 or under do not need to give biometrics.
- If you were 79 or younger when you applied but have since turned 80, you still need to provide biometrics.
Canada Biometric Service Points
You can schedule your VFS Canada biometric appointment at designated service points, making the process simple and accessible.
Here is the list of canada biometric service points:
| City | Key VAC Location & Info |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | Shivaji Stadium Metro Station, biometric by appointment |
| Mumbai | Urmi Axis Building, biometric by appointment |
| Chennai | Fagun Mansion, biometric and passport services |
| Bengaluru | Sobha Pearl, biometric enrolment available |
| Ahmedabad | Bhikubhai Chambers, biometric enrolment by appointment |
| Hyderabad | Banjara Hills, biometric and passport services |
| Chandigarh | Elante, biometric enrolment available |
| Jalandhar | Aman Plaza, biometric services |
| Kolkata | Rene Tower, biometric enrolment available |
| Pune | Wanowarie (Sohrab Hall), biometric enrolment available |
Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Biometrics Appointment
Failing to properly prepare for a Canada biometrics appointment often results in delays and complications with Canadian visa processing. Following the Canada Biometric Requirements will always help you. And here are the most common mistakes to avoid:
Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing documents – Always carry your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), passport, and proof of fee payment.
- Wrong BIL – Using an outdated or someone else’s letter will get you rejected.
- Late or missed slots – Arriving late or not booking early enough can delay your visa.
- Unprepared hands/face – Cuts, henna, sunglasses, or covered facial features can interfere with capture.
- Ignoring centre-specific rules – Some VACs ask for extra IDs—check requirements in advance.
- No appointment confirmation – Bring your booking slip and confirm location/time.
- Skipping follow-ups – If IRCC asks for repeat biometrics, don’t delay.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Double-check your appointment details and required documents. You can also track your application through a Canada biometric status check.
- Keep hands clean and free from henna or ink.
- Wear only religious/medical head coverings, ensuring your face is visible.
- Respond quickly to any IRCC requests for repeat biometrics.
Conclusion
Biometrics may seem like a small step in the Canada immigration process, but they carry big importance. From proving your identity to ensuring secure and smooth visa processing, this requirement is one you can’t afford to overlook. By knowing who needs to give biometrics, where to go, and how to Book Biometric Appointment for Canada, you can avoid unnecessary delays and move forward with confidence. With the right preparation, your biometrics appointment becomes a quick, simple milestone on your journey to Canada.
For the most accurate and updated details, always refer to the official IRCC page on Canada biometric requirements.
