From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Canada is enhancing the application process for those seeking temporary or permanent resident status. This initiative aims to streamline procedures for foreign nationals applying from within the country.<\/p>\n December 3, 2019 \u2013 Ottawa \u2013 <\/strong>In a significant move, Canada has completed the final rollout phase of its biometrics collection program. Now, foreign nationals applying for temporary or permanent residence, or renewing their visas, can submit their fingerprints and photos at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations nationwide.<\/p>\n This advancement saves applicants time and money by allowing biometrics submission within Canada. Since December 31, 2018, Canada has required biometrics from most foreign nationals seeking residency.<\/p>\n Biometrics are crucial as they help immigration officers verify identities, streamline application processing, and enhance security by identifying potential risks.<\/p>\n Applications can be submitted online or on paper. Those receiving a biometrics instruction letter should schedule an appointment at a Service Canada location using a simple online tool available at canada.ca\/biometrics<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n For those traveling outside Canada, biometrics can also be provided at a visa application centre (VAC) in any legally accessible country. Canada boasts a vast network of 160 VACs in 108 countries.<\/p>\n \u201cFingerprints and photo collection are recognized as one of the most reliable ways to identify people and are used by more than 70 countries worldwide. We will enhance the efficiency and integrity of the immigration system in Canada.\u201d<\/p>\n \u2013 The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n This marks the completion of Canada’s biometrics expansion. Foreign nationals applying from or within Canada must submit fingerprints and photos.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Several exemptions<\/a> exist, including applicants under 14 or over 79 years old, U.S. nationals visiting, working, or studying temporarily, and U.S. permanent residents visiting Canada.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Contacts for media only<\/strong><\/p>\n Mathieu Genest<\/strong>Exciting Update for Immigrants in Canada<\/h2>\n
Biometrics Collection Now Available Across Canada<\/h3>\n
Insights from the Immigration Minister<\/h2>\n
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Key Information About Biometrics Expansion<\/h2>\n
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Additional Resources<\/h2>\n
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Contact Information for Media<\/h2>\n
Minister\u2019s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064<\/p>\n