Canadian government is implementing the new Biometric system from today, i.e. 31st July, 2018. However, as of now, it will be applicable to visa applicants from Europe, the Middle East and Africa. For Asia, Asia-Pacific and the America, it will start from December 31, 2018. The decision regarding the biometric system was under consideration for a long time and now, it is implemented partially for the immigration applicants from a few particular regions.
What is new Biometric System of Canada?
Well, as per the new biometric system starting 31st July, the people applying for different visa categories, i.e. visitor visa, work or study permit, permanent residence or asylum in Canada, will have to provide the fingerprints and a photo for the identification purpose. As per the Canadian government, the new biometric system will make the application processing smooth and also ease the entry of genuine or low risk visitors to Canada.
The whole procedure of providing the biometric information shall take few minutes with a cost of CAD $85 (For Individuals). For a family applying together, it will cost CAD $170.
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Who are exempt from biometric system?
The people from visa-exempt countries, who are travelling to Canada for tour and travel, and have got a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) need not to provide biometrics. All the visitors between ages 14 and 79 require providing the biometrics. However, the asylum cases with no upper age limit can be exempt.
Find below the list of exemptions:
How biometric system will work
It will be used at both the application and entry into Canada phases. Biometrics facilitates visa officers to screen applicants and find out any past criminal convictions or Canadian immigration infractions. The biometrics of a visitor are also used when they enter Canada to confirm his or her identity.
Where you need providing biometrics
If an applicant is outside Canada and applying for the first time, he/she can provide biometrics at authorized Visa Application Centres (VACs) of Canadian government, when applying for a visa in person. There are 137 VACs in 95 countries where you can provide your biometric information. The government plans to open more Visa Application Centres (VACs) next year.
Biometrics Validity
The biometrics you need to provide every 10 years for mentioned visa categories. However, in case the application is rejected, the biometrics needs to be renewed once again. Moreover, if you are applying for permanent residency, you need to provide the biometrics, irrespective of the fact, if you have provided it earlier for the temporary visa.
If you are applying for the Canadian permanent residency visa this year, you must confirm the latest update and subsequently prepare your application for the most relevant immigration program, i.e. Express Entry System, PNP, etc.
In case, you need professional, advice, assistance or support from qualified immigration expert, you may call Visas Avenue Immigration- a leading Visa Consultancy Company for Canada Immigration. You may call Visas Avenue Immigration expert on Toll Free Number- 78-18-000-777. Alternatively, e-mail your queries to Visas Avenue e-mail id- info@visasavenue.com.
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