Complete guide to Canada Visitor Visa biometrics

Biometrics collection has become an essential part of Canada's visa application process.

We understand that providing biometric information can seem complex, which is why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the requirements and procedures smoothly.

Keep reading to find out more.

What are biometrics, and why are they required for the Canada Visitor Visa?

Biometrics are currently collected at the visa application stage and checked at the moment of entry in Canada. The biometrics you must submit for the visa application consist of:

• Applicant photo
• Fingerprints

This is done for almost every type of Canadian visa application process, including a temporary resident visa. The primary purpose is to:

• Verify your identity accurately.
• Enhance border security measures.
• Streamline the immigration process.
• Prevent identity fraud.

iVisa Pro Tip: Based on customer feedback, we recommend scheduling your biometrics appointment as soon as you receive your instruction letter to avoid visa processing delays.

Understanding the Canada visa biometrics collection process

It is only necessary to provide your biometrics every 10 years in Canada. Your biometrics do not need to be updated until the 10-year period is over.

You don't need to submit biometrics again if you have already provided them as part of an application for Canadian visas, such as a visitor visa, work permit, or study permit in the past.

We've noticed that many applicants have questions about the biometrics collection centers. Biometrics are collected at Canada-authorized Visa Application Centres (VACs), available in over 180 countries. You'll be notified of the closest location near you when you apply.

Key requirements and exemptions for the Canada visa biometrics

Below is a list of exemptions to providing biometrics for Canada:

• Canadian citizens and current permanent residents.
• Citizenship applicants (passport applicants).
• Visa-exempt nationals applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization.
• Children under the age of 14 and people over the age of 79.
• Heads of state and government.

Essential documents and preparation for your biometrics appointment

When attending your biometrics appointment, you'll need to bring several important documents:

• Valid passport.
• Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL).
• Appointment confirmation.
• Payment receipt for the biometrics fee.
• Any additional documents specified in your instruction letter.

iVisa Pro Tip: Based on customer feedback, we recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early for your appointment and bringing both digital and printed copies of all documents.

Understanding biometrics processing times and tracking your Canada visa application

Processing times for applications after biometrics submission vary based on several factors:

Factors affecting processing time:

• Application volume
• Completeness of submission
• Additional verification needed
• Country of application

iVisa Pro Tip: Our customers report that applications submitted early in the week tend to begin processing faster than those submitted on weekends.

We don't currently offer the Canada Visitor visa, we recommend visiting the Canada government website for more information and application.

Find out if you are eligible for the Canada ETA, and apply with us.

Contact us for more information about traveling to Canada

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about Canada or the visa biometrics application. Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.