Biometrics exemption for Temporary Residence applicants within Canada.

As of July 15, 2020, the Canadian government has implemented a temporary public policy that exempts foreign nationals in Canada from the need to obtain biometrics for the processing of their temporary applications.

The following applicants are covered under this policy:

• an extension of a work permit

• a new work permit

• an extension of a study permit

• a new study permit

• a visitor visa

• a visitor record to allow you to stay in Canada as a temporary resident

• restoration (extension) of temporary resident status

• a temporary resident permit

If you are in Canada and haven’t yet applied for Temporary Residence:

• Do not pay the biometric fee, even if the system asks you to pay it when you submit your application.

• If you pay the fee, you will receive the biometric instruction letter; you do not have to give your biometrics if you are in Canada and applying for temporary residence. You will receive a refund of your biometric fee once a decision has been made. You do not need to request a refund.

If you are in Canada and have a pending temporary application and have paid the biometric fee:

• You are now exempt from the requirement to give your biometrics

• You do not need to do anything. The application will continue to process, and you will be sent a refund for the biometric fee.