What is Biometric for Canada Visa- A helpful guide

Embarking on an educational journey to explore Canada's opportunities is a dream for many aspiring students. Canada has an irresistible allure with its breathtaking landscapes, thriving cities, and vibrant multiculturalism. However, before setting foot on Canadian soil, one must navigate the intricate web of visa requirements, ensuring the journey is seamless and hassle-free. 

In recent years, the Canadian government has introduced an innovative and secure system known as biometrics to enhance the immigration process. Biometric data, consisting of unique physical attributes such as fingerprints and facial features, provides an extra layer of identity verification, improving the accuracy and efficiency of visa processing. From understanding the significance of biometric data to demystifying the application process, this article aims to equip you with the knowledge you need to know about biometrics for a Canada visa. 

Requirements for Biometric Enrollment 

People who have to provide their photographs and fingerprints: 

You will have to provide your biometrics if you are applying for the following: 

1. Visitor Visa
2. Study/work permit (U.S. nationals are excluded)
3. Permanent residency
4. Asylum/refugee status
5. Extension of Canadian stay or visitor record
6. Study permit/work extension 

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Exemptions

Anyone who is present in Canada and applying for temporary residence status will be exempted from providing biometrics. Some exemptions include the following: 

1. Already in Canada
2. Applying or have applied for the following- 
3. Extension of stay for workers, students, and visitors. 
4. Study/work permits. 
5. Restoration of status as workers/students/visitors. 
6. Visitor visas.
7. Temporary residence permit. 

Those who have furnished biometric details anytime in the last decade for study, work, or visitor visa permits (if they are valid) do not need to furnish the same once again. The Check Status option may be used to find out the validity of the same. Those with alien passports will have to give biometrics irrespective of the passport-issuing country. 

Here are some other points to keep in mind: 

• When to provide photographs and fingerprints- To be provided as part of the application (visitor visa, study/work permit, etc.) 
• Frequency of providing biometrics- Once in ten years. 

Way to Enroll/Provide Biometrics 

1. First-time applicants need to furnish biometrics. 
2. Those who have given them before should check their validity with the tool mentioned above. 
3. Pay the fee while submitting the application. Those applying for transit visas do not have to pay any fees for biometrics. 
4. Get the confirmation letter on providing biometrics. Carry it with you on the scheduled date. 
5. Visit the official site of collection. Make an appointment swiftly after receiving the letter. 
6. Let temporary wounds, injuries, cracks, and cuts on your hands heal completely before visiting to give your biometrics. 
7. Do not apply henna or other things on your hand for this appointment. 
8. Avoid headgear and light-colored clothing if possible. Headgear is only allowed for religious reasons. 

Post-Biometrics Requirements for a Canada Visitor Visa. 

Once you have provided these details, you may have to wait for eight weeks to get the visa, provided everything is approved by the authorities. 

Fees

The biometric fees for Canada student visas or other applications are the following: 

1. CAD $85 for individuals. 
2. CAD$170 for families applying simultaneously. 
3. CAD $255 for groups of three or more members who are performing artists and also their staff members. They should be applying simultaneously for their work permits. 

These details will help you out with the biometrics process for your Canadian visa.

Validity of Biometrics 

The biometrics are valid for up to 10 years. Students need to give their biometrics again until the 10-year period expires.

If you gave biometrics in the past as part of an application for a visitor visa, work, or study permit, and they’re still valid, you don’t need to give them again.