New Biometrics Requirement for Canadian Permanent Residence Applicants: What You Need to Know

As of June 14th, 2023, all Canadian permanent resident (PR) applicants are required to submit biometrics, regardless of whether they had previously submitted them when applying for a temporary residency permit. This new update by the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) body signifies a return to the pre-pandemic procedures for all permanent resident applications.

The IRCC enacted a policy in the Global Case Management System (GCMS) that exempted permanent resident applicants from resubmitting their biometrics if they met certain conditions. The applicant had provided their biometrics alongside their permanent resident application within the past 10 years.

In September 2020, the IRCC allowed new permanent resident applicants to apply if they had already submitted their biometrics during their temporary resident application. However, this temporary policy only applied if the temporary resident application was within the past decade. This measure was introduced in response to the temporary closure of many Visa Application Centres (VACs) during the pandemic period.

As the pandemic restrictions continue to ease, IRCC has started moving toward resuming its pre-pandemic service standards. The body expects all permanent resident applicants to resubmit their biometrics. Fortunately, the backlog of applications experienced in 2020 has been significantly reduced, and the department can now work more efficiently at full capacity. Applicants can now have their applications processed quickly, provided all information and documentation is in order.

Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding the new biometrics requirement for Canadian permanent resident applicants:

• All Canadian permanent residents must submit biometrics as part of their application process.
• The current fee to submit biometrics is $85 CAD.
• Biometrics are used to help keep Canadians safe and protect the integrity of the immigration system.
• Biometrics are considered non-invasive for applicants while making them easy to identify.
• Biometrics are a mandatory part of all immigration applications, although there are some exemptions.
• Applicants who have previously provided biometric data will now be required to resubmit them when applying for permanent residency.
• The IRCC has resumed its pre-pandemic service standards and expects all permanent resident applicants to resubmit their biometrics.
• The backlog of applications experienced in 2020 has been significantly reduced, and the department can now work more efficiently at full capacity.
• Applicants can now have their applications processed quickly, provided all information and documentation is in order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are required when submitting biometrics for Canadian permanent residence?

When submitting biometrics for Canadian permanent residence, applicants are required to bring their passport and a valid biometric instruction letter. The biometric instruction letter will be sent to the applicant after they submit their application for permanent residence.

How long is the waiting period after completing biometrics for Canadian PR?

The waiting period after completing biometrics for Canadian PR varies based on the processing time for the application. The processing time can take several months, and applicants can check the status of their application online.

What are the steps to check biometric status online for Canadian immigration?

To check biometric status online for Canadian immigration, applicants can log in to their online account and click on the “Check status and messages” tab. From there, they can view the status of their application and any updates related to their biometrics.

How can I schedule a biometrics appointment for Canadian permanent residence?

To schedule a biometrics appointment for Canadian permanent residence, applicants can log in to their online account and follow the instructions provided. They can also contact the nearest biometrics collection center to schedule an appointment.

What actions should an applicant expect to follow after submitting biometrics for Canadian PR?

After submitting biometrics for Canadian PR, applicants should expect to wait for the processing of their application. They can check the status of their application online and may be contacted if additional information is required.

Are United States citizens required to provide biometrics when applying for Canadian permanent residence?

Yes, United States citizens are required to provide biometrics when applying for Canadian permanent residence. All applicants for Canadian permanent residence, regardless of their nationality, are required to provide biometrics as part of their application.