Biometrics
Biometrics are your fingerprints and photo. We collect your biometrics so we can confirm your identity. This information is also used to help assess your application.
Unless you’re exempt, you need to give your fingerprints and a photo when you apply for any of the following:
- temporary residence (except US nationals)
- permanent residence
- to extend your stay in Canada, unless you’re from a visa-exempt country
- refugee or asylum status
Exemptions
- Canadian citizens, citizenship applicants (including passport applicants), or existing permanent residents
- those coming to visit Canada only and applying for an eTA
- children under the age of 14
- applicants over the age of 79 (there is no upper age exemption for asylum claimants)
- heads of state and heads of government
- applicants who qualify for or hold a diplomatic or official visa
- US visa holders transiting through Canada
- applicants applying for a visitor visa, a study permit or a work permit who have already provided biometrics for a permanent resident application that’s still being processed
Fees
Individual applicant: CAN$85
Families applying at the same time: maximum total fee of CAN$170
Who is eligible for the family rate?
- your spouse or common‑law partner
- your dependent children or their dependent children
Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of CAN$255
There is no fee to give biometrics for a transit visa.