Ask an RCIC: Why Do I Have to Give My Biometrics (Fingerprints & Photo) When I Apply?

Think of biometrics as a one-time investment that pays dividends over time.

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When you apply for a Canadian visa (travel document) or permit (status document), giving your biometrics—your fingerprints and a photo—plays an important role in the application process. These biometric details are not just about verifying your identity; they serve multiple purposes that are important for both applicants and the Canadian government.

Why Biometrics Matter

Security and Fraud Prevention

Biometrics help ensure that the person applying is who they claim to be. It's a way for the Canadian government to confirm your identity, which helps prevent identity theft and fraud. This means that even if someone has false documents, they can't bypass the biometric requirement.

Simplifying Travel and Re-entry

Once you’ve provided your biometrics, they remain on file for 10 years (for temporary residence applications). That way, you won’t need to provide biometrics for any future trips to Canada as long as they are still valid. When you travel to Canada, the biometrics also facilitates quicker identity checks at the border, potentially making your entry smoother.

Efficient Processing

Biometrics are also used to support background checks and criminal records assessments. This means your application can be assessed more accurately and thoroughly, contributing to a faster decision-making process. When necessary, Canadian authorities can also cross-reference this information with other countries' databases to address any security concerns that might arise.

My Take on Biometrics

As an immigration consultant, I recognize that the biometrics requirement might initially seem like an extra hurdle in your application process. However, I've seen firsthand how this step ultimately benefits applicants by:

• Creating a more secure immigration system that protects your identity

• Establishing a foundation for smoother processing of future applications

• Reducing documentation requirements for subsequent applications

• Adding credibility to your application through verified identification

Think of biometrics as a one-time investment that pays dividends throughout your interactions with the Canadian immigration system over the next decade.

Think of biometrics as a one-time investment that pays dividends any time you need to submit documents and verification information.

Practical Tips for Applicants

• Book Appointments Early: Biometrics must be provided at designated collection points, which typically require scheduled appointments. These slots fill quickly, particularly during during peak application seasons. I strongly recommend booking your appointment immediately after receiving your biometric instruction letter to avoid unnecessary delays in your application processing.

• Keep a Copy of Your Biometric Instruction Letter: Always keep a copy of the letter you receive instructing you to provide your biometrics as well as any documents and receipts you receive during the appointment. These records are invaluable if questions arise about your compliance with the biometrics requirement or if there are system errors that need to be resolved.

• Check Validity Periods: Before starting a new application, check if your previously submitted biometrics remain valid. You can verify this through your online immigration account or by contacting Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If your biometrics are still current, you'll save both the fee and the time required for another biometric appointment.