Canada Expands Visa Application Centres for Enhanced Biometrics Program
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Strengthening Immigration Through Expanded Biometrics
Canada is set to enhance its immigration system in 2018 by expanding its biometrics program. This initiative aims to improve screening processes, expedite application handling, and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration framework.
Currently, biometrics are collected from in-Canada refugee claimants, overseas refugee applicants, individuals facing removal orders, and nationals from 30 countries applying for visas and permits. Starting July 31, 2018, nationals from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East will also need to provide biometrics when applying for various Canadian visas or residence.
New Visa Application Centres Opening Worldwide
To meet the rising demand in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Canada will open new Visa Application Centres (VACs) in several locations:
- Kigali, Rwanda; Stockholm, Sweden; and Tel Aviv, Israel by mid-September 2018
- Athens, Greece; Berlin, Germany; Lyon, France; and Vienna, Austria in early November 2018
- Antananarivo, Madagascar and Cape Town, South Africa in early December 2018
More VACs are slated to open in 2019, with announcements to come.
Interim Biometrics Services
Before these VACs launch, Canadian embassies in Europe will temporarily collect biometrics from applicants who have a Biometrics Instruction Letter. Applicants can also visit nearby VACs:
- From July 31 to mid-September 2018: At the Canadian Embassy in Stockholm for Sweden and nearby regions.
- From July 31 to early November 2018: Canadian embassies in Athens, Berlin, and Vienna for Greece, Germany, Austria, and neighboring areas.
- From July 31 to early November 2018: In Lyon, France, for France and neighboring countries.
These temporary service points will exclusively collect biometrics, and applications will not be processed at these locations. Applicants must first apply online or by mail and receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter.
Minister’s Statement
“Canada welcomes millions of visitors annually and hosts hundreds of thousands of students, workers, and permanent residents. Visa applicants abroad use Visa Application Centres to submit biometrics and applications. To manage increased demand, Canada is expanding its VAC presence over the next two years. By November 2019, 157 Centres will operate in 105 countries.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Information About VACs and Biometrics
- VACs are privately managed and authorized to support visa applicants for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- They assist applicants at various stages and can be contacted via phone, email, or in person.
- VACs have extended hours and locations, facilitating easier visa applications and biometrics collection.
- VACs provide cost-effective and sustainable services for the Government of Canada.
- Biometrics:
- Involves measuring unique physical traits, including fingerprints and facial photographs.
- Biometrics exemptions:
- Exemptions include Canadian citizens, children under 14, applicants over 79 (except asylum claimants), and others in specific categories.
Associated Resources
Media Contacts
Media Inquiries
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQ about Canada’s Biometrics Expansion
What is the purpose of expanding Canada’s biometrics program?
The expansion enhances immigration screening, expedites processing, and maintains public confidence in immigration systems.
Who needs to provide biometrics starting July 31, 2018?
Nationals from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East applying for various Canadian visas or permanent residency.
Where can applicants provide their biometrics before the new VACs open?
Temporary biometrics collection points will be available at select Canadian embassies for eligible applicants.
Are there exemptions to the biometrics requirement?
Yes, exemptions include Canadian citizens, children under 14, and other specific categories.
How does Canada plan to manage increased biometrics demand?
By opening more VACs globally, ensuring efficient and accessible services for applicants.
