Biometrics

Biometrics are your fingerprints and photo. We collect your biometrics so we can confirm your identity. This information is also used to help assess your application.

Unless you’re exempt, you need to give your fingerprints and a photo when you apply for any of the following:

temporary residence (except US nationals)
permanent residence
to extend your stay in Canada, unless you’re from a visa-exempt country
refugee or asylum status

Exemptions

Canadian citizens, citizenship applicants (including passport applicants), or existing permanent residents
those coming to visit Canada only and applying for an eTA
children under the age of 14
applicants over the age of 79 (there is no upper age exemption for asylum claimants)
heads of state and heads of government
applicants who qualify for or hold a diplomatic or official visa
US visa holders transiting through Canada
applicants applying for a visitor visa, a study permit or a work permit who have already provided biometrics for a permanent resident application that’s still being processed

Fees

Individual applicant: CAN$85

Families applying at the same time: maximum total fee of CAN$170

Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of CAN$255

There is no fee to give biometrics for a transit visa.

Sections

Who needs to give their biometrics: Answer a few questions to find out if you need to give biometrics
When to give your biometrics: How often you need to give biometrics as a temporary resident applicant, including extensions, and as a permanent resident applicant
How to give your biometrics: What to expect when you go to your biometrics appointment
Where to give your biometrics: Find a collection point near you
What happens after you give your biometrics: What we do with your fingerprints and photo and how they may be used

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Date modified:: 2024-10-25

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Biometrics

Fees

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