Canada has recently implemented biometrics requirements for visa applications. This includes providing your fingerprints and a photo in order to obtain a visa. Canada’s biometrics requirements help to improve the security and accuracy of visa applications. As well as verifying the applicant’s identity in a secure manner.
Biometrics are also used in the immigration system of Canada to maintain its integrity. All applicants must first submit their application online and then attend an application center to provide their fingerprints and photo. This biometric data is then securely stored in the Canadian visa database. By using Canada’s biometrics requirement, applicants can be sure that their visa application will be securely processed.
Collection of biometrics information at visa application centers
A Visa Application Centre designated by the Government of Canada is required for the first time to obtain biometric information from applicants when applying for a visa outside of Canada.
If the traveler has a current Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and is entering Canada on a tourist visa, they will not be required to submit biometric data.
Canada’s biometrics requirements for PR Applications
In spite of the fact that they may have previously submitted biometrics to support a guest visa, study permit, or permanent residency application, the Government of Canada says everyone who wishes to apply for permanent residency must provide biometric information and pay the fee (unless they meet the exemption requirements listed below).
Application Delay Reduction
The following suggestions are offered by the Canadian government to shorten application wait times:
- You shouldn’t send your application by mail. If you wish to apply for a visa in person, you can visit a visa office or submit your application electronically.
- The application fee and biometrics charge must both be paid when you submit your application.
- If you receive a Biometric Instruction Letter, you should submit your biometrics within a few days of receiving the letter, or at the same time, you are submitting your application at the visa application center.
- If you are applying from the United States, take into consideration the travel time needed to get to a VAC or Application Support Center (ASC).
- You should have everyone in the family providing biometrics at the same VAC or ASC if possible.
- Make sure any temporary adornment or wound on your face or hands has fully healed before removing it.
- There are several types of temporary injuries or medical conditions, including:
- Because of small burns or wounds, bandaging the face or fingers.
- Temporary skin conditions such as rashes.
- Visit a Veterans Affairs Canada or Assistance Services Centre to have your photograph taken and your fingerprints recorded if you have a permanent injury or condition affecting your face or hands. Permanent illnesses or injuries won’t improve or heal over time. Bring your medical history and records with you.
- Candidates who have just turned 80 years of age or older cannot provide biometric data to VACs. If you are 79 years old when you submit your application and you become 80 before providing your biometrics, you must organize an appointment to give them at the Canadian visa office. The nearest US Application Support Center can still take your biometrics if you are in the country.
Canada’s biometrics requirement for Multiple-Citizenship Applicants
Citizenship applicants involving more than one travel document (such as a passport) must be completed using the same travel document. If you are applying for a visa from within the US, you must use the same document when submitting your application at a Visa Application Centre or Applicant Support Centre.
The applicant must submit a request to withdraw their application if they wish to alter their citizenship. You can do this by contacting the visa office for your region or nation. A new application and the appropriate fees may then be submitted by such applicants.
Biometrics requirements within Canada
It is mandatory for foreign nationals aged 14 to 79 to submit their biometrics through the Canadian government. To apply, they must choose from the following categories:
- Student from abroad (study permit extension).
- Overseas students
- International employee (extension of work permit).
- Visitors who demand visas (staying extension).
In order to extend a visa or permit, a candidate will reportedly need to provide new biometrics if his previous ones are deemed invalid.
Furthermore, candidates who apply for PR based on family, economic, or refugee status must provide their biometrics.
Exempt categories from the biometric collection
Biometrics are not required for applicants in the following categories:
- A Canadian citizen, a citizen who is applying for citizenship (including a passport application), or an existing permanent resident.
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) holders migrating to Canada as tourists without a visa.
- Candidates who are in the under-14 age group
- Individuals more than the age of 79 (There is no upper age limit exception for those seeking asylum).
- Leaders of states and governments.
- Official visitors to Canada, including cabinet ministers from other countries and accredited diplomats from the United Nations.
- Travelers with U.S. visas pass via Canada.
- Individuals who have previously given their biometric information and are applying for a study or employment permit as refugees or other protected individuals.
- Biometrics are already provided by temporary resident applicants supporting a permanent resident application that is waiting for approval.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canada’s biometrics visa requirements are an important security measure for ensuring the safety of its citizens. By requiring applicants to submit fingerprints and a photo, the Canadian government is able to effectively identify and track those entering the country. The biometrics visa requirements are a necessary step in the visa application process, and they ensure that Canada remains a safe and secure country.
