Canada to Make Biometrics Mandatory for Citizenship Applications in 2026-27
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The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is preparing to roll out a new rule that will make biometrics a compulsory step in the citizenship process. Until now, applicants were exempt from this requirement, except in rare cases where fingerprints were needed for identity or security reasons. Starting with this update, every applicant will be required to provide biometrics as part of the procedure. The policy is expected to be fully enforced by 2027.
New Canada Citizenship Rule for Biometric
The proposed amendments to the Citizenship Regulations will make it mandatory for all applicants to provide biometric data, specifically fingerprints and facial recognition. This change marks the first time that biometrics will become a standard requirement for Canadian citizenship grants.
This policy is backed by legislative authorities introduced in June 2023, giving IRCC the power to integrate biometrics into the Citizenship Program. The process will likely follow the same system used in other immigration categories, where applicants must visit Service Canada or designated collection centres.
Once collected, the biometric data will be cross-referenced with both national and international databases, like those managed by the RCMP and Interpol. This ensures accurate verification while addressing cases where applicants may share similar names or backgrounds. Compared to the past, when biometrics were rarely required except for special checks, this marks a significant policy shift.
To protect applicants’ rights, IRCC will manage biometric collection under strict guidelines set by Canada’s Privacy Act. Measures like encryption, limited data retention, and access restrictions will be applied to safeguard information.
Though not part of any international agreement, Canada’s approach takes cues from countries like the USA, UK, and Australia, where biometrics are already standard. With over 300,000 applications processed in 2024, IRCC expects this change to streamline verification and speed up decision-making by replacing inconsistent manual checks with a uniform biometric system.
Also Read: Canada Introduces Express Entry Draw Category Changes for 2026
Timeline and Next Steps for Canada’s Citizenship Biometric Rule
The biometric rule for Canadian citizenship is still in its development phase, with proposed amendments expected to appear in the Canada Gazette, Part I, in 2026. A 30-day public comment period will follow, giving applicants, advocacy groups, consultants, and community organizations the chance to voice their perspectives.
Based on the input received, IRCC will fine-tune the framework to address concerns surrounding privacy, costs, and accessibility. The final regulations are scheduled for publication in the Canada Gazette, Part II, in 2027. Once this step is completed, the biometric requirement will officially apply to all citizenship grant applications.
In preparation, IRCC will work on expanding its biometric collection infrastructure across Canada. The department will also establish clear guidelines on data storage, fee structures, and communication strategies to ensure a smooth rollout. These efforts are essential to handling the high volume of citizen applications processed each year.
Applicants and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed through IRCC’s official website, where updates on consultation opportunities and collection centre locations will be posted. Active participation during the 2026 consultation will play a vital role in shaping a system that balances national security with accessibility for all applicants.
Explore: Canada to Require Medical Exams for PR through Express Entry Starting August 21
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Canada’s upcoming biometric rule for citizenship marks a major step toward stronger identity verification and streamlined processing. With implementation set by 2027, applicants should stay updated and prepared for these changes. GetGIS will guide you through every step of Canada immigration with expert support.
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