Canada visa biometrics (fingerprints and photo) must be given at a VFS Canada Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India. Cost: CAD $85 (~₹5,300). You have 30 days from receiving the Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) to complete biometrics. Biometrics are valid for 10 years, so you won't need to repeat them for subsequent applications within that period.
Who Needs to Give Canada Biometrics?
| Category | Biometrics Required? |
|---|---|
| Visitor visa applicants (14-79 years) | ✅ Yes |
| Study permit applicants (14-79 years) | ✅ Yes |
| Work permit applicants (14-79 years) | ✅ Yes |
| PR applicants (14-79 years) | ✅ Yes |
| Children under 14 | ❌ No |
| Applicants 80 years and older | ❌ No |
| US visa holders transiting Canada | Depends on visa type |
Biometrics Cost
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Individual biometrics fee | CAD $85 (~₹5,300) |
| Family (2+ applying together) | CAD $170 maximum |
| Group of 3+ performing artists | CAD $255 maximum |
Biometrics fee is paid as part of your visa application, not separately at VAC.
Step-by-Step Biometrics Process
Step 1: Submit Your Visa Application Online
- Complete your application on the IRCC portal
- Pay application fee (includes biometrics fee)
- Receive Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) in your account
Step 2: Book VAC Appointment
- Go to VFS Global Canada website
- Create an account or log in
- Select "Biometrics" appointment type
- Choose your preferred city
- Select available date and time
- Print appointment confirmation
Step 3: Visit VAC for Biometrics
- Arrive 15 minutes before appointment
- Carry required documents
- Complete biometrics (fingerprints + photo)
- Collect receipt
Step 4: Wait for Visa Processing
Biometrics are transmitted electronically to IRCC. Processing continues automatically.
VFS Canada VAC Locations in India
| City | Address (Brief) |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | Shivaji Stadium Metro Station area |
| Chandigarh | SCO complex, Sector 34A |
| Jalandhar | BMC Chowk area |
| Mumbai | Malad (West) |
| Pune | Baner area |
| Ahmedabad | Vastrapur area |
| Bengaluru | Marathahalli |
| Chennai | Nungambakkam |
| Hyderabad | Begumpet |
| Kolkata | Salt Lake, Sector V |
| Kochi | Panampilly Nagar |
Check VFS website for exact addresses and working hours.
Documents Required for Biometrics Appointment
- Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL) - Printout from IRCC account
- Original passport - The one used in application
- Appointment confirmation - From VFS booking
- Passport-size photo - As per Canada specifications (optional, they take one)
What Happens at the Biometrics Appointment
- Document check - Staff verifies your BIL and passport
- Photo capture - Digital photo taken against plain background
- Fingerprint scan - All 10 fingers scanned digitally
- Receipt issued - Keep this for your records
Time required: 15-30 minutes typically
Important Rules and Tips
30-Day Deadline:
You must complete biometrics within 30 days of receiving the Biometric Instruction Letter. Missing this deadline may result in application refusal.
10-Year Validity:
Once given, your biometrics are valid for 10 years. Future Canada visa applications within this period won't require new biometrics.
Tips for Smooth Process:
- ✅ Book appointment as soon as you receive BIL
- ✅ Don't apply henna on fingertips before appointment
- ✅ Remove fingerprint-covering bandages if possible
- ✅ Carry original documents only (no photocopies needed)
- ✅ Arrive on time - neither too early nor late
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk in for biometrics without appointment?
Walk-ins are generally not accepted. Book an appointment through VFS website.
What if I miss the 30-day deadline?
Your application may be refused. Contact IRCC to request extension if you have a valid reason.
Do I need to give biometrics if I gave them for a previous Canada visa?
If given within the last 10 years for a Canada application, you don't need to repeat. IRCC will reuse existing biometrics.
Can someone else give biometrics on my behalf?
No. Biometrics must be given in person - it's your fingerprints and photograph.
Is passport submission required at biometrics appointment?
You show your passport for verification, but it's NOT collected at biometrics. Passport submission (if required) is a separate step for visa stamping.