Why do I have to give my biometrics (fingerprints and photo) when I apply?

Most people have to give biometrics when they apply for a visitor visa, a study or work permit or permanent residence.

Canadian visa officers use biometrics to confirm your identity. Biometrics also helps to:

• make it more difficult for someone to forge, steal or use your identity,
• resolve problems or errors that may happen if your name, date of birth and/or place of birth are similar to those of someone else, and
• confirm your identity the next time you apply, so it is easier for you to re-enter Canada.