This temporary policy was introduced during the COVID, exempting foreign nationals applying for permanent residency (PR) from providing biometrics.
This was only applicable to applicants who already have previously given their biometrics while making any other immigration/visa application in last 10 years.
PR applications submitted prior to June 14, 2023 and meeting the above requirement will continue to be processed with biometrics exemption.
So all the foreign nationals applying for permanent residency (PR) will now have to submit their biometrics.
What are biometrics?
Biometrics are unique physical or behavioral characteristics that can be used to identify an individual. Common biometrics include fingerprints, facial scans, and iris scans.
Why does Canadian immigration take biometrics?
Canadian immigration takes biometrics to help verify the identity of applicants and to prevent identity fraud. Biometrics can also be used to track the movements of individuals who have entered Canada illegally.
I am on work permit in Canada. Do I need to give biometrics if I am applying for PR after June 14; although, I gave my biometrics 4 years ago?
Yes, you will need to give biometrics again if you are applying for permanent residence after June 14, 2023, even if you gave your biometrics 4 years ago. This is because the biometrics that you gave 4 years ago may no longer be valid.
Here are the steps on how to give your biometrics for Canadian PR:
- Pay the biometrics fee.
- Book an appointment at a designated biometrics collection service point.
- Bring your appointment letter, passport, and any other supporting documents.
- Give your fingerprints and a facial scan.
The biometrics collection process is usually quick and easy. You should expect to spend about 15 minutes at the biometrics collection service point.
If you have any questions about the biometrics requirement for Canadian PR, you can contact Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Here are some of the benefits of using biometrics in immigration:
- Increased security: Biometrics can help to prevent identity fraud and other security threats.
- Streamlined processing: Biometrics can help to streamline the immigration application process by verifying the identity of applicants and reducing the need for manual reviews.
- Improved accuracy: Biometrics can help to improve the accuracy of immigration records by providing a more reliable way to identify individuals.
Overall, the use of biometrics in immigration can help to improve security, streamline the process, and improve accuracy. If you are applying for permanent residence in Canada, you should be prepared to provide your biometrics.thumb_upthumb_downuploadGoogle itmore_vert
