Biometrics for Canadian Immigration: Fees, Timing, and What to Expect

Everything you need to know about biometrics before and after submitting your Canadian immigration application.

Biometrics are a mandatory part of nearly every Canadian immigration application. They include fingerprints and a digital photograph, collected in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC), Application Support Center, or designated biometrics collection location. Missing or delayed biometrics is one of the most common causes of application processing delays.

Who needs to provide biometrics

Most foreign nationals applying for the following need biometrics:

• Visitor visa (temporary resident visa)
• Work permit (except US citizens for certain categories)
• Study permit (except US citizens for certain categories)
• Permanent residence (all economic class, family sponsorship, and refugee applications)
• Extension of status in Canada (in some cases)

Exemptions

You typically do not need biometrics if you are:

• Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• US citizen (for work/study permits, visitor visas, and eTA)
• Under 14 or over 79 years of age (for most application types)
• A diplomat
• Already provided biometrics in the past 10 years for a valid application
• Transiting through Canada under specific conditions

Biometrics fees

• Individual: CAD $85
• Family (2 or more people applying together): CAD $170 maximum
• Group of performing artists (3+): CAD $255 maximum
• Paid online when you submit your application

How the biometrics process works

• Submit your application and pay biometrics fees online
• Receive your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) by email within 24 hours
• Book an appointment at a designated biometrics collection point
• Attend your appointment within 30 days of receiving the BIL
• Provide fingerprints and a digital photo (takes about 10-15 minutes)
• Your biometrics are linked to your application automatically

Where to give biometrics

Outside Canada

• Visa Application Centres (VACs) in most countries
• US Application Support Centers (ASCs) if you are in the United States
• Some locations require advance booking while others accept walk-ins

Inside Canada

• Service Canada biometrics locations (limited offering)
• Designated Service Canada centers in most major cities
• Free to book but appointment availability can be limited

How long biometrics are valid

Biometrics you provide are stored by IRCC for 10 years. If you apply again within that window, you typically do not need to provide them again. IRCC will verify this automatically when you submit a new application.

What to bring to your appointment

• Your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) printed or on your phone
• Your valid passport
• Any additional identification requested in your BIL
• Arrive 15 minutes early to account for check-in

Common biometrics mistakes and how to avoid them

Waiting too long to book

You have 30 days from the date of your BIL to provide biometrics. If you miss this deadline, you can still provide them but your application processing will be delayed. Some VACs have 2-4 week appointment backlogs, especially in large cities.

Going to the wrong location

Not all Service Canada offices offer biometrics services. Always check the specific location listed on your BIL or on the official IRCC website before traveling.

Forgetting your BIL

You cannot provide biometrics without your Biometric Instruction Letter. Print a copy even if you plan to show it on your phone, as some VACs have restrictions on mobile devices.

Passport mismatch

The passport you bring must match the one listed in your application. If you renewed your passport after submitting, notify IRCC before your appointment.

How biometrics delays affect your application

IRCC will not begin substantive processing of your application until your biometrics are received. For time-sensitive applications like study permits before a school start date, this delay can be costly. If you have an upcoming deadline, book your biometrics appointment as soon as you receive your BIL.