Provide biometric information to visit Canada | World News - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Provide biometric information to visit Canada

Toronto | By
Dec 30, 2018 10:57 AM IST

There will be some exemptions to the expansion of the Canadian biometric programme, including for those below 14 years of age or above 79.

Starting on New Year’s Eve, most visitors from India travelling to Canada will be required to provide biometric information while applying for the relevant documents.

Starting on New Year’s Eve, most visitors from India travelling to Canada will be required to provide biometric information while applying for the relevant documents.(AFP)
Starting on New Year’s Eve, most visitors from India travelling to Canada will be required to provide biometric information while applying for the relevant documents.(AFP)

These details will include fingerprints and photograph of the applicants. This will be necessary whether the applicant is seeking a visitor visa, study or work permit, or even applying for permanent residency of Canada. While the mandatory biometric requirements has already been implemented since July 31, this year, for applicants from countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the programme is now being expanded to encompass Asia, Asia-Pacific and the Americas. “Having biometrics makes it easier for immigration and border services officers to stop individuals who pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians. It also helps officials verify travellers’ identities, makes processing applications easier and simplifies entry for legitimate travellers,” a statement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada or IRCC noted. Obviously, applicants will have to be present in person to submit their biometrics and most will be collected prior to travelling at a visa application centre. IRCC also announced there will be “facilitative measures” for those making “repeat visits” to Canada. It said, “For example, those coming to visit, study or work temporarily will only need to give their biometrics once every 10 years.”

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

In a statement, Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said, “Collecting biometrics from most foreign travellers coming to Canada makes sense on so many levels: it strengthens the integrity of our immigration system, while helping protect the safety and security of Canadians. Not only does biometrics collection give us a reliable, accurate tool to establish a traveller’s identity, but it also improves our ability to process applications and the entry of people upon arrival in Canada.”

There will be some exemptions to the expansion of the Canadian biometric programme, including for those below 14 years of age or above 79.

Unlock a world of Benefits with HT! From insightful newsletters to real-time news alerts and a personalized news feed – it's all here, just a click away! - Login Now!

Get Latest World News along with Latest News from India at Hindustan Times.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
  • ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    author-default-90x90

    Anirudh Bhattacharya is a Toronto-based commentator on North American issues, and an author. He has also worked as a journalist in New Delhi and New York spanning print, television and digital media. He tweets as @anirudhb.

SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Sunday, March 17, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On