Expansion of Canada’s biometrics program

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship announced that Canada intends to expand its biometrics program to all foreign nationals applying for a visitor visa, a study or work permit (excluding U.S. citizens), and to all those applying for permanent residence.

Starting in the summer of 2018, when foreign nationals (with the exception of U.S. citizens) apply for a visitor visa, a study or work permit, they will need to have their fingerprints and a photo taken. To facilitate repeat travel to Canada, applicants for a visitor visa, study or work permit will only need to give their biometrics once every 10 years. Similarly, all permanent residence applicants will be required to give their biometrics.

Currently, Canada collects biometrics from in-Canada refugee claimants, overseas refugee resettlement applicants, individuals ordered removed from Canada, and individuals from 30 foreign nationalities applying for a temporary resident visa, work permit, or study permit.

The process is intended to strengthen Canada’s immigration programs through effective screening (biometric collection, verification, and information-sharing with partner countries).