Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL)
A biometrics instruction letter (BIL) is a letter IRCC sends after you pay the biometrics fee, telling you to give your fingerprints and photo. You normally have 30 days from the date of the letter to do it.
What to do
- Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) outside Canada, an approved Service Canada location inside Canada, or a US Application Support Center if you are in the US.
- Bring the BIL and your passport.
- Give biometrics. IRCC then continues processing.
The biometrics fee as of September 2026 is CAD $85 per person or CAD $170 for a family applying together. Biometrics are usually valid for 10 years, so you may not need to give them again.
If you cannot meet the 30-day deadline, contact IRCC through its web form before it passes. See our biometrics guide.
Frequently asked questions
What if I cannot give biometrics within 30 days?
Contact IRCC before the deadline to explain. Otherwise your application may be refused.
Do US citizens need biometrics for Canada?
It depends on the application. US citizens applying for permanent residence must give them; check IRCC's exemption list for temporary applications.
Can I give biometrics before applying?
Usually no. You need the BIL, which comes after you apply and pay the fee.
Official sources
- IRCC: Biometricscanada.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.