Canada is arguably one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Holding a gigantic stretch of land, this country offers amusement in every region and sector. The beautiful spread of diverse lands, miles of stunning coastlines, rugged mountain peaks, majestic Alps, vibrant culture, food inspired by various regions, glorious history, the list never ends. It is one of those lands housing some of the most astounding spectacles of nature making it a haven for any traveling enthusiast.
On the opposite hand, Canada additionally boasts of being one of the fantastic hubs for numerous business and commercial opportunities. The well-maintained and developed infrastructures and all the amenities create a splendid environment for commercial enterprise, work possibilities, and to pursue education in one of the pinnacle universities inside the international.
With all these, comes your Canada Visa, a mandatory travel document similar to any other country in the world. However, when applying for a visa to Canada, especially a Canadian tourist visa, you should remember to check your eligibility criteria as to whether you can enter Canada without a visa or must mandatorily go through the entire process of visa application.
The visa application comes with a number of steps to get entry into Canada which you want to finish with utmost precision. From knowing your visa kind, collecting the documents, attending the interview, and finally getting your visa application authorized, you need to be cautious about what you put up and how accurate your files are. One of the major steps in the Canada visa application involves you to submit your details known as the process of appointment for Canada biometrics.
Now this is a crucial step in the process and you have to make sure that you are well-known with the formalities. So, that is why we have curated a detailed article on the entire process of appointment for Canada biometric.
Biometrics is usually collected at the visa application stage and verified at the time of entry in Canada. You will have to give your biometrics if you choose or want to apply for:
A Canada visitor visa or Canada tourist visa
A Work visa or study permit excluding the national United States
A Permanent Residence
An extending your stay in Canada usually known as a visitor record
A work or study permit extension
A refugee or asylum status
Please note that there are some exceptions given and also some temporary measures for your biometric collections. Below is a list of exceptions for submitting the biometrics for Canada visa:
Citizens of Canada and current permanent residents
Citizenship applicants or passport applicants
Nationals of countries who come under visa-free entry and who applied for an Electronic Travel Authorization (Canada ETA)
Children below the age of 18 and people who are above 79 years of age.
Heads of state and government
Ministers and diplomats travelling to Canada for official purposes including business
The United States visa holders who will be transiting through Canada
Refugee claimants or protect persons who have provided their biometrics in the past and currently are applying for a work or study permit to Canada.
Temporary resident applicants who have provided their biometrics (photo and fingerprints ) in the past in support of a permanent residence to Canada that is still in progress.
The biometrics you need to submit for the visa application include:
Applicant photo
Applicant fingerprint
The biometric service for Canada Visitor Visa
Before you hop on to any conclusion, it is important to understand the significance of each step and learn how it actually works.
The biometrics appointment is a necessary procedure every ten years in Canada. Once given, your biometrics need no updates until the ten-year period is over.
There is no requirement to submit the biometrics again if you have already provided them during the previous visa application for Canada such as Canada tourist visa, work or study permit in the past.
The provided biometric information such as your fingerprints and photos will be encrypted which means secured and sent electronically through an advanced and secure database. This database is controlled and managed by the Government of Canada.
Where can I submit my biometrics?
As you are applying for a Canada visa outside of the country, your (foreign nationals) biometrics are secured at a Canada-authorised Visa Application Centre (VAC) which is found in over 180 countries across the world. To book your biometric appointment and get assistance with the process, contact the nearest VAC.
If you choose to apply for the Canada visitor visa through any authorised visa agent, you will be provided will a detailed guide and all the information on your nearest application centre location. The information includes on what to bring such as the necessary documents and a valid passport and how to make an appointment.
Steps to submit your biometrics
Following are the essential steps that you need to follow when submitting the biometrics for a Canada visa:
1. Pay the biometric fee
You will have to complete the payment for your biometric submission. The fee structure for a biometric process depends on your nationality, visa type, and various factors including if you are applying with your family members.
For individual applicants: $85
For families applying at the same time: a maximum total fee of CAD $170
For a group of three or more performing artists including their staff: a maximum total fee of CAD $255
2. Get your biometric instruction letter
After you complete the payment for the biometric fee, you will be given a letter that confirms your requirement to submit biometrics and will tell you where you can go to do so.
You will have to carry the letter when you give your biometrics with a valid passport. The speed of getting the letter depends on how fast you apply and when you pay for your biometric fees.
3. Visit the official biometric collection site
You will have to give your biometrics in person and this requires you to schedule an appointment to submit them. you can book your appointment as soon as you get your biometric instruction letter.
This is all you have to do to complete your biometric appointment process without any complications.
Tips to get the best fingerprints and photos during your biometric appointment
Following are a few tips that will help you to get a biometrics appointment done:
Make sure to keep your hands henna-free
If you have any temporary injuries, wounds, or cuts let them heal before giving your biometrics
Avoid wearing any light-coloured clothing or any type of headgear. Headgear is allowed to be worn only for religious purposes. But while taking the photo make sure your headgear does not disrupt the features of your face.
Your face must be completely visible in the photo and cover your full face with a neutral expression.
Canada is a splendid country to explore and without a doubt welcomes millions of people across the world for various purposes. The country offers numerous attractions with well-connected networks and amenities that make every visit worthwhile.
So, in case you are applying for a Canada tourist visa and are uncertain about the process of appointment for Canada biometrics, you can absolutely follow our guide to get your biometrics done right away. However, you are continually cautioned to consult a professional for in-depth information.
Comments