Biometric Requirements for Canadian Student Visas

Biometrics requirements for a Canadian student visa includes fingerprints and a digital photograph. Most international students are required to complete biometric enrollment before their study permit application can move forward.

In this guide, you’ll learn who needs to provide biometrics, the current biometric fees, how long biometrics remain valid, and the complete step-by-step guide to enroll Biometrics for a Canada Student Visa.

Introduction to Canada Student Visa Biometrics

Biometrics refers to a set of biological measurements and information that are used to identify and verify the identity of individuals. Biometrics are essential for applying for a study permit in Canada. The biometric information required for a study permit includes electronic fingerprints and a digital photograph. With the help of biometrics, authorities can verify that the person applying for the visa is who they claim to be. In this way, the process will be faster and more secure.

Who Needs to Provide Biometrics for a Canadian Study Permit?

The Government of Canada has released a brief statement outlining which visa applicants are required to provide biometric information and which applicants are exempt from providing this information.

Generally, you must provide biometrics for visa applications if you’re applying in the following Position:

Applicant situation	Biometric requirement	Details
Study permit applicants from some countries	Required	Applicants from Asia, Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and parts of the Middle East are typically required to provide biometrics.
Citizens of visa-exempt countries	Exempt	Exempt in most situations, depending on the type of application and individual circumstances.
Children under 14 years old	Exempt	Exempt from providing biometrics
Adults over 79 years old	Exempt	Except for certain asylum or refugee claims
Holders of diplomatic or official passports	Exempt	And their family members
Heads of state and government	Exempt	Not required to provide biometrics.
Cabinet ministers	Exempt	And their immediate family members
Family Applications	Required	Each family member aged 14–79 must provide biometrics individually.

 

Biometric Fees and Validity

According to IRCC, most Canadian study permit applicants are required to pay an $85 biometrics fee. If multiple family members apply together, Canada offers a reduced family rate, helping lower the overall application cost.

As noted below, other fees such as VAC services may also be added based on location.

• India: $35–50 CAD
•  Philippines: $60–75 CAD
•  Nigeria: $35–60 CAD

Your biometric information is valid for 10 years from your date of registration, during which time you will generally not need to resubmit your fingerprints and digital photograph for each new application and can use the same information for several years in Canada.

Steps to Complete Your Biometrics for a Canada Student Visa

Before you travel abroad to start studying in Canada, you need to understand the Canadian student visa process and make sure you complete each step to receive your study permit. Here’s everything you need to know about Biometrics for a Canada Student Visa.

Step 1 – Pay the Biometric Fee

Biometric fees are CAD$85 per person and CAD$170 for families (two or more people). Payment methods vary depending on the VAC location, most accept credit cards, money orders or bank transfers, but cash is rarely accepted. it is also recommended by experts to pay biometric fees online during the visa application process as this will streamline your VAC appointment and reduce processing delays.

Applicant Type	Biometric Fees
Individual applicant	CAD $85
Family (2 or more applicants applying together)	Maximum CAD $170

Tip: Families save money by applying together rather than separately.

Step 2 – Receive Your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)

Once you submit your study permit application and pay the fees, IRCC will issue a BIL within 24-48 hours. This letter is very important in the subsequent processes and not having a BIL means you will not be able to book biometric appointments – this letter contains essential booking codes.

Step 3 – Attend a Biometric Collection Appointment

When you have received the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL), made an appointment, and come to the Visa Application Center (VAC) according to the date and time set for your biometrics appointment, take your passport, BIL, and appointment confirmation letter, because these papers will be needed to collect your biometrics data. While visiting the Visa Application Center, you will have your ten fingerprints scanned using a digital scanner and a photo will be taken following the Government of Canada’s guidelines for taking photos. The process will be completed quite quickly and will not take much time.

Step 4 – Completion and Processing

Once biometrics are completed, the information, including fingerprints and a digital photograph, is electronically transmitted to (IRCC). Once received, the file is reviewed and processed.

The time it takes to transmit biometric information varies depending on the Visa Application Centre (VAC) and usually takes from the same day to five business days. After that, the visa application is processed and the final decision is made to the country of application within 60 to 120 days.

It is very important to provide accurate personal information and documents at this stage, as any discrepancies or errors in the information may result in IRCC reviewing the file or requesting additional documents.

Tips for Fingerprint and Photo Requirements

•    In order not to cause any problems, try to make sure that your fingers are clean and injury-free.
•  If you have cuts, scars, or missing fingers, notify VAC staff immediately – they have protocols for these conditions.
•  Students arriving with bandaged fingers or recent cuts that prevent an accurate fingerprint scan may have to reschedule and delay processing.
• A professional digital photo meeting specific Canadian government standards. Unlike passport photos, this image is taken using calibrated equipment at VAC and is clear and perfect.
•  For better quality photos, try to wear appropriate clothing that meets standards.
•  Arrive 15 minutes early with all your original documents.
• Print everything out in advance. Don’t rely on showing documents on your phone.
• Review VAC guidelines, organize required documents, schedule an arrival time, and contact the center with specific questions about your situation.

Final Checklist for Biometric Enrollment

• submit your study permit application and pay biometric fees
• Receive Your Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) _ you will receive it within 24-48 hours by IRCC)
• Visit your country’s official VAC website and make an appointment at the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
• Prepare the necessary documents, including your original passport, BIL, payment receipt, and VAC appointment confirmation, and bring additional identification documents if needed.
• After completing your biometrics, check your status in your IRCC account within 24 to 48 hours as the information will be automatically linked to your Study Permit file.