Canada · study · guide
Canada Study Visa: How to Give Your Biometrics
This guide explains how and where to submit your biometrics for your Canadian visa application.
MIGRAGENT wrote this from 11 requirements on the official page, each checked against the government's own wording. Updated 2026-10-02. Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/biometrics/where-to-give.html
Booking your biometrics appointment
You must make an appointment to give your biometrics. You should book this appointment as soon as you receive your biometric instruction letter (BIL). You must give your biometrics within 30 days of getting this letter.[1][2][3]
Where to go for your appointment
You must not go to a Service Canada office unless you have a scheduled appointment. You must not go to a Service Canada Centre if you are applying for citizenship.[4][5]
If you want to go to a port of entry to give your biometrics, you must make sure you are eligible first. If you plan to go to a Visa Application Centre (VAC), you must visit their website before you go to see what services they offer.[6][7]
To use an Application Support Center (ASC) or a VAC in the US, you must already be legally in the US. You must use the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website to book your appointment at an ASC.[8][9]
If you need more time
If you cannot give your biometrics before your letter expires, you must use the web form to explain why you need more time. You must provide details about your situation in this request.[10][11]
Checklist
- Book your appointment as soon as you get your biometric instruction letter.[2]
- Give your biometrics within 30 days of getting your letter.[3]
- Check the VAC website for available services before you visit.[7]
- Make sure you are legally in the US before booking a US ASC or VAC.[8]
Questions people ask
Can I go to a Service Canada office without an appointment?
No. You must not go to a Service Canada office unless you have a scheduled appointment.[4]
How long do I have to give my biometrics?
You must give your biometrics within 30 days of getting your biometric instruction letter.[3]
What should I do if I cannot give my biometrics in time?
You must use the web form to explain why you need more time. You must also provide details about your situation.[10][11]
Can I give my biometrics at a US ASC?
Yes, but you must already be legally in the US to go to an ASC. You must use the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website to book your appointment.[8][9]
Can I give my biometrics at a port of entry?
You can only do this if you make sure you are eligible before you go.[6]
Can I go to a Service Canada Centre if I am applying for citizenship?
No. You must not go to a Service Canada Centre if you are applying for citizenship.[5]
This explains what one official page says. It is not legal advice, and the page itself is the authority. Rules change; the wire reports it when they do.