Immigration Announcement
Canada Resumes Biometric Collection in Sudan After Long Pause
In a welcome move for many applicants, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has resumed biometric collection in Sudan, helping ease application hurdles for those who couldn’t leave the country to complete this step. This update announced by IRCC on July 24, 2025 comes as part of a collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). It’s aimed at making the immigration process more accessible for applicants in Sudan under family-based permanent residence and Canada’s resettlement programs. Let’s break down what this update means and who it affects.
What Is Biometric Collection and Why Is It Important?
Biometrics are fingerprints and a digital photograph. Canada uses this data to:
- Confirm your identity
- Screen for security risks
- Speed up application processing
If you’re applying for any of the following, you’re generally required to give biometrics:
- Temporary residence (except U.S. nationals)
- Permanent residence
- Refugee or asylum status
- Visa extensions
Unless you’re exempt, providing biometrics is non-negotiable.
What’s Changing in Sudan?
Until now, applicants inside Sudan couldn’t submit their biometrics because of paused operations. As a result, many immigration or resettlement applications were stuck in limbo. But now, with IRCC and IOM reopening biometric services, people already inside Sudan can complete their applications without having to travel abroad.
Key Highlights of the Resumed Service
- Biometrics are by appointment only
- IOM will contact eligible applicants directly
- Some may be booked for a medical exam at the same time
- Only those contacted by IOM can attend the appointment
This setup ensures an organized, safe, and effective way to complete the biometric process.
Who Needs to Provide Biometrics?
If you’re unsure whether you need to give your biometrics, here’s a simple guide:
| Application Type | Biometrics Required? |
| Temporary Resident Visa (non-U.S.) | Yes |
| Permanent Residence | Yes |
| Refugee or Asylum | Yes |
| Transit Visa | No |
| Visa Extension (if non-exempt) | Yes |
You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years for temporary residence. However, permanent residence applicants must submit them with every application.
Fees for Biometric Collection
The cost structure is straightforward:
- Individual applicant: CAN$85
- Families applying together: Maximum CAN$170
- Groups of performers + staff: Maximum CAN$255
- Transit visa applicants: No fee
What Happens After You Give Your Biometrics?
After your appointment:
- Your fingerprints and photo are securely stored
- IRCC uses them to process and assess your application
- You don’t need to take further steps unless contacted
Why This Biometric Collection Update Matters
This policy update isn’t just administrative—it’s a lifeline for many Sudanese families. By offering biometric collection within Sudan, IRCC is removing a major obstacle for applicants who couldn’t travel due to security concerns or financial limits. It also shows Canada’s ongoing efforts to support global humanitarian goals by making immigration more accessible to those in crisis zones.
Biometric Collection in Sudan Reopens with New Hope for Applicants
If you’re one of the many applicants affected by the delay, this new development is your chance to move forward. The resumption of biometric collection in Sudan could be the turning point that brings you one step closer to Canada. Need help understanding the biometric process or checking your eligibility? Reach out to Canada Immigration news for all the latest updates and developments.
