Biometrics (fingerprints and photo): how they work for your Canadian application

For most visit, study, work or permanent residence applications, Canada requires biometrics: all ten fingerprints and a photo. It’s a routine step meant to confirm your identity.

Who has to give biometrics?

• Most applicants from outside Canada in the categories above.
• There are some exceptions (based on age or application type) — check the canada.ca page for your case.

Where and when to give them

1. After you submit your application, you usually receive a Biometric Instruction Letter.
2. You book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or the authorized body in your country.
3. You attend in person for the fingerprints and photo.

Important points

• A fee usually applies for biometrics; we don’t state an amount here because it can change — check the official fees on canada.ca.
• Biometrics have a validity period; you may not need to redo them if they are still valid from a previous application.
• Submit your application yourself safely: see how to create a secure IRCC account, and if you use a consultant, verify their licence as in the new rules for consultants.

This article is general information, not legal advice. Information dated July 18, 2026: always verify on canada.ca, the only official source.