Canada is a beautiful country that attracts millions of tourists every year with its scenic beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly people. If you’re planning a trip to Canada and wondering about the visa requirements, this article is for you. In recent years, the Canadian government has revised its immigration policies and introduced biometric requirements for visa applicants. In this article, we’ll explore what the biometric requirements are for Canada tourist visas and whether you need to provide them.
What Are Biometrics?
Biometrics refer to the unique physical characteristics of an individual, such as fingerprints, facial features, or iris patterns. Biometric data is used to verify the identity of an individual and is increasingly being used by governments and other organizations worldwide to enhance security and streamline processes.
Introduction of Biometric Requirements for Canada Tourist Visas
In 2018, the Canadian government started implementing biometric requirements for visa applicants from several countries, including China, India, Pakistan, and Mexico. Since 2019, biometric requirements have been extended to all visa applicants worldwide who apply for a visitor visa, work permit, or study permit.
Do You Need to Provide Biometrics?
If you’re planning to visit Canada as a tourist and apply for a visitor visa or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), you will need to provide biometric data. Biometric data is needed for anyone who is between the ages of 14 and 79 years old. The biometric data requirement includes digital fingerprints and a digital photograph. These requirements are necessary to ensure the security and safety of Canada and its citizens.
How to Provide Biometrics?
If you are required to provide biometrics, you will need to visit a Visa Application Center (VAC) to provide your fingerprints and photograph. You will need to schedule an appointment online before visiting the VAC. The process of providing biometrics is quite simple and takes only a few minutes. You will need to pay a biometric fee of CAD $85 for the first person in your application and CAD $170 for families applying together.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to travel to Canada as a tourist, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements, including biometrics. Biometric data is required for anyone between the ages of 14 and 79 years old who wants to apply for a visitor visa or eTA. The process of providing biometrics is simple and can be completed at a Visa Application Center. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents and make an appointment at a VAC before your trip to Canada. With this article, you now have a clear understanding of the biometric requirements for Canada tourist visa applications.
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