COVID-19 update: New public policy on biometrics collection exemption for temporary residence applicants from within Canada in effect until further notice

Ottawa, July 15, 2020Due to public health concerns related to COVID‑19, Service Canada closed its centres on March 27, 2020. Although Service Canada is starting to gradually reopen its offices to the public, biometrics collection services will resume at a later date.

Recognizing the impact this ongoing service disruption has on applicants in Canada, IRCC has put in place until further notice a public policy to exempt temporary residence applicants applying from within Canada from having to give their biometrics. This means we will be able to fully process and make decisions on applications.

With the public policy in place, IRCC is now able to help many temporary residence applicants in Canada to move forward with their plans, for example, to study, work or extend their stay as a visitor in the country.

We will continue to screen applicants through other means to ensure the safety and security of all Canadians.

The department is also looking at potential options to help permanent residence applicants in Canada.

Who is covered under the public policy

You’re covered under this public policy if you’re in Canada and are applying for one of the following:

What to do if you’re in Canada and applying for temporary residence

What do to if you’re in Canada, and you have a pending temporary residence application for which you’ve paid the biometric fee

For the latest information on biometrics, please keep checking our COVID-19 biometrics Web page and Canada.ca/biometrics.

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