- Biometrics, in this context, mean your fingerprints and a digital photo.
- Most permanent residence applicants need to give biometrics as part of their application.
- Where you attend depends on where you're living when IRCC asks for them: Your instruction letter will tell you exactly which locations are available to you and how to book, so treat it…
If you've applied for permanent residence, you've likely received — or are about to receive — instructions to give biometrics. For most applicants, this means a short appointment to have fingerprints and a photo taken, but the logistics around booking it, paying the fee, and knowing what to bring can feel more confusing than the appointment itself.
Here's what biometrics actually are, who needs to give them, and what happens once you're in the chair.
What Biometrics Are and Why IRCC Collects Them
Biometrics, in this context, mean your fingerprints and a digital photo. IRCC uses them to confirm your identity throughout the application process and to support background and security screening, working alongside the other checks already built into your file.
Who Needs to Give Biometrics
Most permanent residence applicants need to give biometrics as part of their application. Certain groups — generally based on age or a recent prior biometrics collection — may be exempt or may not need to repeat the process. Because exemptions can change, check the current rules that apply to your specific application rather than assuming based on someone else's situation.
Where You Give Biometrics
Where you attend depends on where you're living when IRCC asks for them:
| Your Location | Typical Collection Point |
|---|---|
| Outside Canada | A designated Visa Application Centre in or near your country of residence |
| Inside Canada | An approved Service Canada location or other designated site |
Your instruction letter will tell you exactly which locations are available to you and how to book, so treat it as the authoritative source rather than guessing based on a previous application.
The Biometrics Fee
| Applicant | Fee (as of mid-2026 — verify before relying on it) |
|---|---|
| Individual applicant | $85 CAD |
| Family submitting biometrics together | Capped at $170 CAD total for a family of two or more |
This fee is billed separately from your main application processing fee, so don't expect it to appear as a single combined charge.
Booking and Attending Your Appointment
- Wait for your biometric instruction letter. IRCC will tell you when and how to proceed.
- Book an appointment at a designated collection point — typically a Visa Application Centre, or an approved location if you're already inside Canada.
- Bring the required documents, including your instruction letter and valid passport or other accepted ID.
- Attend the short appointment. Fingerprints and a digital photo are captured electronically; the process itself usually takes only a few minutes once you're called in.
After You've Given Biometrics
Your biometric information becomes part of the identity and background checks supporting your application. It remains valid for a period of time set by IRCC — if your application takes longer than that window, you could be asked to provide biometrics again before a final decision is made.
Once your biometrics have been collected, there's generally nothing further for you to do on this particular step; it becomes one input among several that IRCC uses alongside your documents while your file moves through processing. You don't need to follow up separately to confirm receipt — if there's an issue, IRCC will typically contact you directly.
Frequently asked questions
How long are my biometrics valid for?
They remain valid for a period IRCC sets, not indefinitely. If your case is still being processed once that window closes, you may be asked to give biometrics again — check your current correspondence from IRCC for specifics.
Do I need to give biometrics again if I already gave them for a work or study permit?
Possibly not, if you're still within the valid window from that earlier collection. Rules around reuse can change, so confirm your specific situation rather than assuming.
What happens if I miss my biometrics appointment?
Missing it without rebooking can delay processing of your application. If something comes up, rebook as soon as possible and pay attention to any deadline stated in your instruction letter.
Is the biometrics fee separate from my application fee?
Yes. It's billed and paid on its own, separate from whatever fee applies to your underlying application.
Do children need to give biometrics too?
Age-based exemptions can apply, and the specific age thresholds are set by IRCC and can change. Check your family's instruction letters carefully rather than assuming every family member is treated the same way.
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