VAC (Visa Application Centre)
A VAC, or Visa Application Centre, is a privately run office authorized by IRCC to provide services for people applying to Canada, such as collecting biometrics, receiving passports, and returning them once a visa is placed.
What VACs do and do not do
VACs are operated under contract with IRCC, often by VFS Global. They:
- Take your biometrics after you get a biometrics instruction letter.
- Receive passports for visa counterfoils after a PPR and send them back.
- Help with paper applications in some locations, for an optional service fee.
VACs do not make decisions or influence the outcome. No VAC employee can speed up or approve your case. Only use VAC locations listed on the official IRCC website; fake VAC websites are a known scam. See our biometrics guide and scam protection.
Frequently asked questions
Does the VAC decide my visa?
No. Only IRCC officers make decisions.
Do I have to use a VAC?
For biometrics outside Canada and the US, usually yes. Paper services are optional.
How do I find the official VAC in my country?
Use the VAC finder on IRCC's website, not a search engine ad.
Official sources
- IRCC: Biometricscanada.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.