Passport Request Time After Canadian Visa Biometrics

The time it takes to receive a passport request after submitting biometrics for a Canadian visa can vary depending on several factors. However, here’s a general timeline and the key stages involved:

1. Biometrics Submission

• After you submit your biometrics, Canadian authorities typically take time to process this information. Biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) are usually processed within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the visa office’s workload and location.

• Processing Time for Biometrics: Biometrics processing itself doesn’t usually take long—approximately 3 to 10 business days, but it might take longer if there are delays or additional checks required.

2. Application Processing After Biometrics

• After your biometrics are submitted, the next step is the review of your full application (visa, study permit, work permit, etc.). This can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the visa category, the country from which you’re applying, and your specific case.

• For example, a visitor visa can take around 2-3 weeks for processing after biometrics submission, while a study or work permit might take 2-3 months or more.

3. Passport Request

• Once your application is processed and a decision is made (either approval or refusal), you will receive a passport request (PPR) email. This email asks you to send in your passport for final processing and issuance of the visa/study permit/work permit.

• Time for Passport Request: The passport request is typically issued 2-4 weeks after biometrics, but this can vary. If your application is straightforward and there are no complications, it could be faster. On the other hand, if additional documents or checks are needed, it could take longer.

Factors Affecting the Timeline:

• Visa Category: Different visa categories have different processing times. For example, a work permit may take longer than a visitor visa.

• Country of Application: Processing times can vary depending on the visa office you’re applying through, as some Canadian visa offices experience higher volumes of applications.

• Application Complexity: If your application is more complex or requires additional checks (e.g., security or medical clearances), the timeline may be extended.

• Backlogs: During peak periods or due to external factors (like the COVID-19 pandemic), processing times may be delayed.

Summary:

• Biometrics Processing: 3 to 10 business days.

• Visa Application Processing: A few weeks to several months, depending on the visa type and your individual case.

• Passport Request (PPR): Typically 2-4 weeks after biometrics, though it can take longer in some cases.

You can always check your application status online through your IRCC account or consult the official processing times on the IRCC website to get an estimate specific to your case.

If there are significant delays, or if it’s been several weeks since your biometrics submission without any update, you may contact the Visa Application Centre (VAC) or the IRCC for further information.