In December 2021, Canada updated its study visa requirements to minimize errors. Now it is mandatory to send your biometric credentials. Although the procedure sounds intimidating, it is super safe.
If you are an overseas student wishing to pursue higher education in Canada, please submit your biometrics along with your visa application. Read on this article to know more about biometric.
If you are confused, what is a biometric study visa? There you go, the biometrics are your fingerprints and digital photos that you must attach to your Canadian study visa.
The reason for adding biometrics with a visa
Canadian visa officers use this biometric data to verify your identity. This makes it harder for someone to spoof your identity, which makes the error correction process easier. After providing your biometric information, a secure facility stores your credentials in a Canadian government database.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police conduct a background check by comparing your fingerprints to those of people who have committed crimes, have applied for asylum, been deported or applied for temporary residency. The visa officer will evaluate any matches against these existing records before making a decision on your Canada student visa application.
Your credentials will be stored in a secure location on a database maintained by the Canadian government after you provide your biometric information. Your application for a Canadian study visa will now be processed by IRCC.
Are there other terms and conditions?
Absolutely! Some applicants are exempt from these requirements. Examples: These candidates include, but are not limited to, those seeking citizenship, PR, children under the age of 14, and those over the age of 79.
If you are a current Canadian student visa holder, you will not be required to provide your biometric information until your next application.
How to submit biometric documents?
- Pay the biometric fee (C$85 per applicant) when you submit your visa application.
- Receive the instruction letter.
- Make an appointment to hand in your biometric data at a government-authorized collection point.
- The visa will not be processed until the biometric data has been submitted.
How long does the whole process take?
- Once your application for biometrics and a Canadian study visa has been submitted to IRCC, it typically takes 8 weeks to receive a visa. To speed up the process:
- Submit an application in person or online at a Visa Application Center. Your application must not be sent by post.
- When you submit your application, you pay the application and biometric fees together.
- You need to provide proof of your biometrics as soon as you receive your biometrics instruction letter, ideally at the same time as your VAC application.
- Please bring all supporting documents with you to your VAC visit if you have a facial injury or any other condition affecting your hands or face.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when providing biometrics for a Canadian study visa.
- Don’t wear white or light colours.
- Avoid colouring your hands with henna before your visit.
- Make sure your entire face is visible when the photo is taken.
