WHATSAPP
As announced earlier, Canada will make it mandatory to submit biometrics information including fingerprints and photo for people from Asia, Asia Pacific and the Americas. Canada introduced the biometric rule in July 2018 and in the first phase, the rule was implemented for people from Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The Canada biometrics rule is being expanded to people from Asia, Asia Pacific and the Americas as part of implementing the second phase.
The biometrics rule is applicable for those applying for a Canadian visitor visa, work permit, study permit, permanent residence (including through Express Entry) and for asylum seekers. As per the rule, all applicants in the ages of 14 and 79 must submit biometric information. But in the case of asylum seekers, there is no upper age limit.
Purpose of Canada biometrics rule
Canada introduced the biometrics rule with an aim to confirm the identity of low-risk travellers and simplify the application process.
The other benefits of biometrics are:
- It makes impossible to forge, steal or use another person’s identity
- Resolve the problems that arise when name, date of birth and/or place of birth of more than one person are similar
- Confirm the identity of a person when they apply to enter Canada next time, thus simplifying the re-entry.
Biometrics identification helps the Government of Canada prevent known criminals from entering the country. It also helps prevent re-entering of deportees without permission and of failed refugee claimants with false documents.
Submitting biometrics information
Those who apply to enter Canada can submit their biometric information at their nearby authorized Visa Application Centers (VACs). By November 2019, Canada is planning to have at least 149 VACs located across 99 countries. Those who apply for visitor visa, study or work permit must submit the biometrics once in every 10 years.
Privacy and security
Canada keeps the fingerprints information for 15 years after which it will be deleted. The biometric information is kept encrypted and is handled with high level of security and privacy. Canada may disclose biometric information to the United States, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom in accordance with Canada’s privacy laws and civil liberties and human rights commitments.
Contact us for any more information on Canada biometrics rule or Canada immigration
