All You Need to Know About the Canada Biometric Appointment

Are you planning to apply for immigration to Canada from India? It's essential to understand that the application process and entry into Canada now involve the use of biometrics. Today’s article will equip you with further insights about the VFS Canada Biometric Appointment from India.

Importance of Biometrics in Canada Immigration

Biometrics are now a part of the visa application process in Canada, and they are also checked when you enter the country. The biometric data you are required to provide during the visa application includes your photograph and fingerprints.

Biometrics plays a crucial role in verifying the identity of applicants and ensuring they meet the necessary immigration criteria. Additionally, they help visa officers check for any past criminal convictions or violations of Canadian immigration laws.

If you're curious about how biometrics are used in this process and want to get started on your Canada visa application, let’s have your biometric appointment for Canada scheduled right away.

Who All Need to Undergo the VFS Canada Biometric Appointment?

Curious about whether biometrics are necessary for your visa application in Canada? The Canadian government offers a handy questionnaire to help you determine if you're required to submit biometrics.

In general, you'll need to provide biometrics for visa applications if you're applying for:

1. A visitor visa
2. A work or study permit (except for United States nationals)
3. Permanent residence
4. Refugee or asylum status
5. An extension of your stay in Canada, which is referred to as a visitor record
6. A work or study permit extension

Also read: Transforming Your Canada Tourist Visa into a Work Permit in 2023

It's important to note that there are some exceptions to these requirements. Citizenship applicants, current permanent residents, children under 14 years old, and applicants over 79 years old are not required to provide biometrics.

Booking and Preparing for Canada VFS Biometric Appointment

When applying for a Canadian visa, work or study permit, or permanent residency, the provision of your biometrics (fingerprint and photo) might be necessary. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to book and prepare for your biometric appointment:

• Step 1: Determine if Biometrics are Required: If you're applying for the first time, you'll likely need to provide biometrics unless you're exempt. If you've given your biometrics before, check their validity and expiry date using the Check Status tool
• Step 2: Pay the Biometric Fee: To book a biometric appointment for Canada first you need to pay the biometric fee as part of your application submission. Failure to do so may result in delays
• Step 3: Obtain the Biometric Instruction Letter: After paying the biometric fee, you'll receive a letter confirming the requirement for your biometrics and detailing the location where you should go. Remember to bring this letter and your valid passport when attending your biometric appointment
• Step 4: Schedule Your Appointment: You can arrange your biometric Canada visa biometric appointment using the eServiceCanada Appointment Booking Tool. Avoid visiting a Service Canada office unless you have a prior appointment scheduled. If you're outside Canada, locate the nearest Government of Canada-authorized Visa Application Centre (VAC)
• Step 5: Prepare for the Appointment Prior to your appointment: Ensure you're compliant with health and safety regulations, including wearing a mask. Check the VAC or ASC website to confirm its operational status. Carry your biometric instruction letter and valid passport. It's important to note that biometrics appointments are free, so there's no need to pay anyone for such an appointment
• Step 6: Providing Your Biometrics: Visit an official biometric collection site. Remember that you must provide your biometrics in person. During the appointment, you'll have your fingerprints and photo taken, which are essential for verifying your identity and conducting the necessary background and security checks

What to Ensure When Arriving for VFS Canada Biometric Appointment India?

Now that you are familiarized with how to book an appointment for biometrics in Canada. Moving ahead let us learn what you should ensure when you visit the Visa Application Centre for your Canada biometric appointment:

• Please aim to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled VFS biometric appointment Canada slot.
• It's essential that you, the visa applicant, attend the appointment in person. Sending someone else in your place is not permitted.
• Only applicants and one parent or caregiver accompanying a child under 18 years old are allowed to enter the Visa Application Centre.
• Ensure you bring the following documents:
  • A printed copy of your visa application
  • Two copies of 2D barcoded sheets
  • Two copies of your passport's bio page
  • A valid passport or travel document
• If you've applied for a visa online and have received the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), bring a printed copy of the “BIL”, the consent form, and a valid passport or travel document with at least two blank pages on both sides.
• Remember to carry all the necessary supporting documentation in both original and copy forms.
• Children under 14 years old do not need to attend the appointment, as they are not required to provide fingerprint information.
• If you're accompanying a child under 18 years old, please note that the accompanying adult cannot be a member of VFS Global staff.

Additional Tips to be Considered for a Successful Biometrics Appointment Canada

Along with the mandatory pointers to be ensured there are a few more things that you ought not to miss for ensuring a smooth photo and fingerprinting process. These tips include:

• When getting your photo taken, ensure your entire face is visible. If you prefer, you can request to be photographed by someone of the same gender and even ask for a privacy curtain. Your religious headgear mustn't obstruct your face.
• Avoid wearing white or light-colored clothing, including headgear. Vibrant and bright colors tend to work best for your photo.
• Refrain from applying henna to your hands before giving your fingerprints.
• Check that any injuries, cuts, or cracks on your fingertips have fully healed before providing your fingerprints. If the initial fingerprinting doesn't capture well, you might need to schedule a second appointment for the process.

Need Assistance for Your Canada Biometric Appointment? Contact GetGIS

The biometric appointment is a critical part of the Canadian immigration process. Being informed and prepared is key to ensuring your identity is verified and the necessary checks are conducted efficiently.

While the specifics can vary, following the provided guidelines is essential. A successful biometric appointment brings you closer to your goal of visiting or living in Canada.

Are you in search of exceptional assistance for your Canada visa application? GetGIS is here for you. From the visa application process to mock interviews to post-landing services we have you all covered. Just relax and experience the ease of navigating through the Canada Immigration process with our expert guidance.

Useful Links: For Further Reads

• Guide to Canada Study Visa Processing Time
• How To Study in Canada After 12th From India?
• 2023's Handbook to Canada LMIA Processing Time
• Canada PR Processing Time from India in 2023