Key takeaways
- Biometrics from a visitor visa, study permit or work permit are valid for 10 years. For permanent residence, IRCC says you give them again each time you apply until you are approved
- Fee: $85 (CAD) per person. For a family applying at the same time, the maximum is $170 (CAD)
- After you pay, IRCC sends a biometric instruction letter (BIL). You have up to 30 days from the date shown in the letter to give your fingerprints and photo
- Bring your BIL and your valid passport. You must give your biometrics in person
- Exempt: children aged 13 and under and applicants aged 80 and over, based on age when the application was submitted
Do I give biometrics again for PR?
Yes. IRCC says: “If you’re applying for permanent residence, you’ll need to give your biometrics each time you apply until you’re approved.” This is true even if your earlier biometrics are still valid for 10 years from a visitor visa, study permit or work permit. See IRCC’s biometrics notice.
Fee
| Who | Biometrics fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| One person | $85 |
| Family applying at the same time (spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, and their dependent children) | $170 maximum |
Source: IRCC’s biometrics facts page. Booking an appointment is free.
Steps and the 30-day window
- Pay the fee. If you apply online and pay the biometrics fee when you submit, IRCC says you can get the letter within 24 hours.
- Get your biometric instruction letter (BIL).
- Book your appointment as soon as you get the BIL. A designated Service Canada office or a U.S. Application Support Center needs an appointment. At a visa application centre (VAC), booking ahead is best, but some walk-in or emergency appointments may be accepted.
- Go in person within 30 days. IRCC says you have “up to 30 days from the date indicated in the letter.” You can go to a VAC, a designated Service Canada office (in Canada) or a U.S. Application Support Center.
Bring your BIL and your valid passport. Service Canada offices do not accept immigration applications or payments for the biometrics fee. Find a location with IRCC’s how to give biometrics page.
Tip for your fingerprints
Your hands must be henna-free. IRCC says that if it cannot get high-quality fingerprints at your appointment, you may need to give your biometrics again.
IRCC’s pages do not say what happens if you miss the 30 days. If you cannot meet the date, read your letter and contact IRCC through its official channels.
Who is exempt?
- Children aged 13 and under, when their application was submitted.
- Applicants aged 80 and over, when they submitted their application. If you were 79 at submission and turn 80 while IRCC processes your file, you must still give your biometrics.
Source: IRCC’s biometrics tool page. Use that tool to check your own case.
What this means for you
- You gave biometrics for a work or study permit: plan to give them again for PR.
- You apply with family: the fee is capped at $170 (CAD) when you apply at the same time.
- You are in a country outside Canada: you will usually use a VAC. Inside Canada, you can use a designated Service Canada office.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to give biometrics?
Up to 30 days from the date indicated in your BIL.
What do I bring?
Your BIL and your valid passport.
How much is the fee?
$85 (CAD) per person, with a $170 (CAD) maximum for families applying together.
Can I give biometrics online?
No. IRCC says you must give your biometrics in person.
Sources
- IRCC: Biometrics collection in Canada
- IRCC: Biometrics facts
- IRCC: Find out if you need to give biometrics
- IRCC: How to give biometrics
Facts as provided in our research brief dated October 22, 2026.
This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. For your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer.
