Biometrics rule now applies to ‘in Canada’ PR applicants

Biometrics rule now applies to ‘in Canada’ PR applicants

By Ysh Cabana
The Philippine Reporter

Canada’s biometric program has been expanded to include not only immigration candidates applying from outside the country but also those applying for various programs within Canada.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has advised in a recent press release that in December 2019, in-Canada biometric services will be available in 58 Service Canada and Passport Canada sites.

Prior to Dec. 3, only immigration candidates applying from outside of Canada had to submit their biometrics information — basically their fingerprint and photo — the press release added.

The expanded biometrics program “will enhance the efficiency and integrity” of Canada’s immigration system,” according to Canada’s new Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino in the same press statement.

“Fingerprints and photo collection are recognized as one of the most reliable ways to identify people and are used by more than 70 countries worldwide,” he continued.
Who needs to give biometrics?

IRCC provides an online tool where users fill out a questionnaire to determine if they need to give their biometrics for an application.

Those between age 14 and 79 years old need to give fingerprints and photos for all permanent resident applications in the family class, economic class, and refugee class.

This applies even to those who gave their biometrics in the past in order to support a visitor visa, study or work permit application, or a different permanent resident application.
Unless they are exempt, biometrics are required for those who are applying from within Canada for:

• a work permit (including extensions) • a study permit (including extensions) • a visitor visa (including extensions) • permanent residence

Canadian citizens and existing permanent residents do not need to give their biometrics.

Sequence of operations

Applicants must book an appointment in advance to provide their fingerprints and have their photos taken.

They will then get a biometric instruction letter (BIL), which will provide a list of biometric collection service points to choose from.

It is required to bring the BIL to the service point in person within 30 days in order for the biometrics to be processed.

Applicants, including those in Canada who will be traveling outside the country, can also give their biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) in any country that they are legally allowed to enter.

In 2018, biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) became compulsory for citizens from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Asia-Pacific and the Americas applying to enter Canada. Biometrics are collected once every ten years at a cost of CAD $85 per person.