If you are applying for Canada Permanent Residency (PR), there is one step you absolutely cannot afford to miss — Biometrics.
Many applicants believe that if they already gave biometrics in the last 10 years for a study visa, visitor visa, or work permit, they don’t need to give it again.
That belief is incorrect.
Even if your biometrics are still valid, you must give biometrics again for your PR application.
Let’s break this down clearly and walk through the entire PR process step by step so you don’t make a mistake that could cost you your future.
1. Is Biometrics Mandatory for Canada PR?
Yes. 100% mandatory.
As per Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), biometrics is a required step in the PR process.
Even if you previously gave biometrics for:
Study Visa
Visitor Visa
Spouse Open Work Permit
Work Permit
Any Temporary Resident Visa
You must give biometrics again after submitting your PR application.
It is:
Not optional
Not reusable from temporary applications
Not skippable
Biometric fee: $85 per person
2. A Real Example: A Simple Assumption That Almost Ruined a PR Case
Recently, we encountered a case where:
The applicant received a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
He assumed his old biometrics were valid
He did not inform his consultant
He did not book an appointment
That one small assumption could have resulted in serious consequences.
In PR matters, sometimes you don’t get a second chance.
One simple, overlooked step can lead to rejection — especially in competitive immigration streams.
3. Complete Canada PR Process (Step-by-Step)
To understand where biometrics fits, let’s go through the full process properly.
Step 1: English Language Test
You must take an approved English exam such as:
IELTS (General Training)
CELPIP (General)
PTE Core
Your language score directly affects your CRS score.
Step 2: Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If your highest education is outside Canada, you need ECA.
If your highest qualification is completed in Canada, you usually don’t need ECA.
Step 3: Create Express Entry Profile
You create a profile under Express Entry.
This is called an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Important:
This is NOT your PR application.
You are entering the pool of candidates.
Thousands of applicants are in this pool.
Step 4: Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your CRS score meets the cutoff in a draw, you receive an ITA (Invitation to Apply).
After ITA:
You get 60 days to submit full documentation.
This is your official PR application stage.
Step 5: Application Submission & AOR
After submitting your PR application:
You receive Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR)
This confirms IRCC has received your file.
Now comes the crucial step.
Step 6: Biometrics – The Mandatory Stage
After submission, you receive:
Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL)
You must:
Pay biometric fee (if not already paid)
Book appointment
Give fingerprints and photo
You cannot ignore this step.
4. Where to Give Biometrics?
If You Are Outside Canada
Appointment is required
Fingerprints and photo are collected
Confirmation is sent to IRCC
If You Are Inside Canada
Important:
Not all Service Canada locations offer biometrics
Appointment is mandatory
Special IRCC-authorized officers collect biometrics
5. What Happens After Biometrics?
After biometrics submission:
Background & Eligibility Review
The visa officer reviews:
Work experience
Proof of funds
Job reference letters
NOC codes
Education
Travel history
6. Possible Next Steps
You may receive:
ADR (Additional Document Request)
If the officer needs clarification.
PFL (Procedural Fairness Letter)
If there is concern about misrepresentation or discrepancies.
You typically get around 7–10 days to respond.
These are not mandatory steps but can happen.
7. Final Stage: Confirmation of PR
If You Are Inside Canada
Receive Portal 1 email
Confirm location
Upload photo
Provide address
Receive eCOPR
PR card mailed to you
If You Are Outside Canada
Receive Passport Request (PPR)
Submit passport for stamping
Travel to Canada
Receive COPR at port of entry
PR card mailed to your Canadian address
8. Why Communication with Your Consultant Is Critical
Many applicants:
Know 80–90% of the process
Search everything on Google
Watch multiple YouTube videos
Assume they know everything
But immigration is not just about rules.
It’s about:
Practical experience
Pattern recognition
Understanding grey areas
Avoiding technical mistakes
You may handle one application in your life.
Professionals handle hundreds.
Even a 5% difference in experience can protect your future.
Final Reminder
Biometrics is mandatory for Canada PR
✔ Previous biometrics do NOT count
✔ It happens after PR application submission
✔ Do not ignore Biometric Instruction Letter
✔ Always communicate with your consultant
A small assumption can lead to a big loss.
When it comes to Canada PR, there is no room for ego — only precision.
Plan carefully. Follow every step properly. And never skip biometrics.
