Biometrics (Immigration)
In immigration, biometrics means your fingerprints, photograph, and sometimes signature, collected so the government can confirm your identity and run background checks. Both the United States and Canada require biometrics for many applications.
In the US and Canada
United States: USCIS sends an appointment notice for an Application Support Center (ASC) near you after you file forms such as the I-485, I-765, or N-400. Bring the notice and a photo ID.
Canada: after you apply for a visitor visa, study or work permit, or permanent residence, IRCC sends a biometrics instruction letter. You give biometrics at a Visa Application Centre or other official location. As of September 2026 the fee is CAD $85 per person or CAD $170 for a family applying together, and results are usually valid for 10 years. See our Canada biometrics guide.
Mexico's INM also takes fingerprints when it issues a resident card.
Frequently asked questions
What happens at a biometrics appointment?
Staff check your ID, take your fingerprints and a photo, and sometimes a signature. It usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Can I reschedule a USCIS biometrics appointment?
Yes. USCIS lets you request a new date, usually through your online account or by phone, before the scheduled date.
Do I need to give biometrics to Canada again?
Not if your previous biometrics are still valid. IRCC lets you check this online.
Official sources
- USCIS: Preparing for your biometric services appointmentuscis.gov
- IRCC: Biometricscanada.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.