What is the Next Step After Biometrics for Canada Visa?

Applying for a Canada visa takes time and has various steps. One of the crucial step is giving your fingerprints and photo for biometrics. After this, most people start to wonder. “What happens now?”

Knowing the next steps can make you less worried and more ready. So, what is the next step after biometrics for Canada visa exactly?

After biometrics for your Canada visa, the next step is application review. Immigration officers will assess your documents and background, where sometimes they’ll ask for more information, such as a medical exam or police certificate. If everything checks out, you’ll receive a passport request, followed by your final visa decision.

Do you want to know what happens during these checks or why delays sometimes happen? If you’re curious about all the steps that follow biometrics, continue reading. This article explains everything you need to know about the next stages in a simple and clear way.

What is the Next Step After Biometrics for Canada Visa?

Biometrics are just one step in your Canada visa journey. Once this step is complete, many applicants wonder after biometric what is next for Canada visitor visa. The process continues with application review, document checks, background verification, and sometimes requests for medical exams or proof of funds.

Once everything is approved, you’ll get a passport request, which usually means your visa is ready. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown.

Application Review

• Visa officers check your entire application and match your answers with the details in your forms and documents.
• They also look for missing or unclear information and might request extra files to make your application complete.

Document Verification

• Officers verify your passport, invitation letters, and other documents to make sure every detail is correct and authentic.
• If you are attending an international conference in Canada, they match the event details with your provided information, such as an Invitation letter.

So, make sure your invitations are from a legitimate organizer and look like these:

Invitation letter Sample templates:

Template 1: Invitation Letter for Listeners

[Your Organization’s Letterhead or Logo]
[Date]

To: [Participant’s Full Name]
Address: [Participant’s Address]

Subject: Invitation to Attend the [Conference Name] in [City], Canada

Dear [Participant’s Name],

On behalf of the [Organization/Conference Committee], we are pleased to invite you to attend the [Conference Name], scheduled to be held from [Start Date] to [End Date] at [Venue Name, City, Canada].

This year’s conference will bring together professionals, researchers, and industry leaders from around the globe to share ideas, present research, and explore the latest developments in [Field/Industry].

We are delighted to have you join us as a participant. Your presence will contribute to the vibrant exchange of knowledge and foster valuable networking opportunities.

Event Details:

• Conference Name: [Full Conference Name]
• Dates: [Start Date] – [End Date]
• Venue: [Venue Name, City, Province, Canada]
• Theme: [Conference Theme]

Please note that this invitation does not cover travel or accommodation expenses. However, we will be happy to provide any assistance required for your Canadian visa application.

We look forward to welcoming you to Canada.

Sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Position]
[Organization]
[Contact Email & Phone]

Download Sample

Template 2: Invitation Letter for Authors

[Your Organization’s Letterhead or Logo]
[Date]

To: [Author’s Full Name]
Address: [Speaker’s Address]

Subject: Invitation to Speak at the [Conference Name] in [City], Canada

Dear [Auhtor’s Name],

We are honored to invite you as an author to the [Conference Name], taking place from [Start Date] to [End Date] at [Venue Name, City, Canada].

Your expertise in [Specific Topic/Field] will be an invaluable addition to our conference program. We believe your presentation on [Presentation Title] will inspire and benefit our audience of professionals, academics, and students.

Event Details:

• Conference Name: [Full Conference Name]
• Dates: [Start Date] – [End Date]
• Venue: [Venue Name, City, Province, Canada]
• Theme: [Conference Theme]

We will provide full conference registration, access to all sessions, and official recognition in the event program. If you require visa assistance, we will issue the necessary supporting documents.

We sincerely hope you will accept this invitation and share your insights with our attendees.

Warm regards,
[Full Name]
[Position]
[Organization]
[Contact Email & Phone]

Download Sample

Template: 3 Invitation Letter for Keynote Speakers

[Your Organization’s Letterhead or Logo]
[Date]

To: [Keynote Speaker’s Full Name]
Address: [Keynote Speaker’s Address]

Subject: Official Invitation to Deliver the Keynote Address at the [Conference Name] in [City], Canada

Dear [Keynote Speaker’s Name],

It is with great pleasure that we extend this formal invitation to you to deliver the Keynote Address at the upcoming [Conference Name], scheduled for [Start Date] – [End Date] at [Venue Name, City, Canada].

Your remarkable contributions to [Industry/Field] and your global reputation as a thought leader make you an ideal keynote speaker for our conference. We are confident that your insights will set an inspiring tone for the event and provide immense value to our participants.

Event Details:

• Conference Name: [Full Conference Name]
• Dates: [Start Date] – [End Date]
• Venue: [Venue Name, City, Province, Canada]
• Theme: [Conference Theme]

As a keynote speaker, you will receive complimentary registration, VIP access to all sessions, and recognition throughout the event. We are happy to provide all necessary documents for your Canadian visa application and coordinate travel arrangements as needed.

We look forward to your positive response and to welcoming you to Canada for this prestigious event.

Sincerely,
[Full Name]
[Position]
[Organization]
[Contact Email & Phone]

Download Sample

Background Check

• Authorities check your record for any criminal history or legal issues that might affect your visa approval.
• This process is done quietly and doesn’t need action from you, but it’s a key security step.

Medical Exam (if required)

• Some applicants get instructions for a medical test, which must be completed quickly to avoid slowing the process.
• This ensures you meet Canada’s health requirements and won’t pose public health risks during your stay.

Proof of Funds

• You may need to show recent bank statements or sponsorship letters proving you can support yourself in Canada.
• Officers use this to confirm you can pay for travel, living costs, and other expenses during your trip.

Passport Request

• Once all checks are cleared, you’ll get a formal request to submit your passport to the visa office.
• This step usually means approval, and the visa will be stamped inside before being sent back to you.

Final Decision

• You’ll get the decision in your IRCC account or email, showing if your visa is approved or refused.
• If approved, your passport will return with the visa; if refused, you’ll receive reasons for the decision.

Now you know what happens after the biometrics step is finished. Just follow every instruction you get from the visa office carefully. For more details, you can check Canada’s official visa process page.

Common IRCC Application Statuses and What They Mean

Status	Meaning	What to Do
Biometrics completed	Data received and linked	No action
Review of eligibility	Officer checking docs	Ensure accuracy
Background check in progress	Criminality/security screening	Wait unless contacted
Medical exam required	Health screening needed	Book an exam quickly
Passport request	Visa approved pending stamping	Submit passport fast

How Long Does It Typically Take for IRCC to Process the Application After Biometrics?

The processing time after biometrics can vary widely depending on your visa type, the country where you applied, and the current workload at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The best way to know current averages is to use the official IRCC Processing Times Tool, which updates regularly. Here are the usual processing timelines for each type of application after biometrics.

Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)

Canada visitor visa processing time after biometrics can range from a few weeks to several months for most applicants. The exact timing depends heavily on the volume of applications at your local visa office, as well as the complexity of your case.

Seasonal travel peaks—such as summer holidays or winter break—often extend wait times. Additional verification, such as background checks or requests for more documents, can also cause delays. Applicants who submit complete and accurate files from the beginning typically experience smoother processing.

Study Permit

Study permit processing after biometrics generally takes several weeks to a few months. Demand often spikes before major school intakes, particularly from May to August and November to January, which can lengthen review times.

Because your study plans depend on specific start dates, IRCC prioritizes complete applications submitted well in advance of your program. Incomplete forms or unclear financial proof may result in extra document requests, adding days or weeks to the process.

Work Permit

Work permit applications usually take a few weeks to a few months after biometrics, but the timeframe can be longer if additional employer verification is needed.

Applications tied to a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) may require more review steps, especially if the employer’s compliance history needs to be checked. Seasonal surges in work permit demand—such as before agricultural or tourism seasons—can also slow down decision-making.

Permanent Residence Applications

Permanent residence applications take the longest to process after biometrics, often several months to over a year. Many applicants naturally wonder after biometric what is next for Canada PR, since this stage can feel uncertain.

In reality, the process continues with extensive background, criminality, and eligibility checks, sometimes across multiple countries. Each step, including eligibility assessment, security screening, and final decision, can require coordination with other government agencies.

Factors That Can Speed Up or Delay Processing

• Accuracy of Your Application: Missing or inconsistent information can trigger extra review time.
• Visa Office Workload: Some offices handle more applications than others.
• Type of Background Check Needed: Security or criminality screening in multiple countries can take longer.
• Seasonal Peaks: Summer travel season and back-to-school months often have longer queues.

You can check the current estimated timelines using IRCC’s official online tool. Simply visit the IRCC Processing Times Tool, select your application type, and choose your country of residence. In the Canadian visa processing system, these timelines reflect averages for similar applications. Remember, they are only estimates—your case may move faster or slower depending on complexity and completeness.

What Happens in Visa Background Checking After Biometrics?

Background checks are a very important step in your Canada visa process. This is where the visa office takes a closer look at your background. They do this to check if you are honest and safe to enter Canada. Keep reading to learn what actually happens during these background checks.

Criminal Record Check

Police certificates may be requested from countries where you’ve lived before. These are used to make sure you haven’t been involved in any crimes. In some cases, even minor charges or past issues can be looked at. The visa office needs to confirm that there is no criminal history. This helps them feel confident about approving your application for a visa.

Fingerprint Matching

If your name matches someone else in the police records, fingerprints help. They may ask for your fingerprints to clearly prove your identity. This step helps avoid mistakes and wrong information in the system. It’s done for safety and is a regular part of many visa applications. Once matched correctly, your file moves to the next step easily.

Security Risk Review

To protect Canada, the government checks your background for security risks. They look at past activities and groups you’ve been part of before. Agencies like the RCMP or CSIS help with these checks in some cases. It’s not personal, just a rule to keep everyone safe. If nothing risky is found, your application stays on the right track.

Sharing Between Agencies

Government offices work together to get full details about each applicant. Your details are checked by different groups like IRCC, CBSA, and CSIS. They share the records they find, so nothing gets missed. This teamwork helps create a complete view of your background. Once shared, the file becomes clearer for final decisions.

Final Decision Process

After all checks are completed, the IRCC will make a final decision. They use reports from police, fingerprint scans, and security screening results. If everything looks clear and correct, the next steps begin quickly. But if there’s anything missing, they may ask you again. A strong, honest application makes this last step simple.

Background checks may take some time, but they are done for good reasons. They help protect the country and keep the process fair for all. You don’t have to worry if your documents and answers are all correct. Just be honest and keep checking your messages for any updates.

How to Handle Delays After Biometrics?

Delays after biometrics are common in the Canada visa process and do not always signal a problem with your application. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) often faces seasonal surges, extended security checks, and fluctuating workloads across visa offices. Understanding these factors and how they affect Canadian visa approval after biometrics can help you stay informed and reduce unnecessary stress.

Check Your IRCC Account Regularly

Your IRCC online account is the primary source for real-time updates on your application. Even if you do not receive an email notification, changes in status often appear first in your account dashboard. Checking your account every few days ensures you do not miss important requests or status changes. Always keep your login credentials safe and avoid sharing them with anyone else to protect your personal information.

Respond Quickly to IRCC Requests

When IRCC sends a request for additional documents, a medical examination, or any clarification, time is of the essence. Delayed responses can slow down the entire process and, in some cases, cause your application to be put on hold. Always check both your email inbox and spam folder daily. If you receive an Additional Document Request (ADR), follow the instructions exactly and upload the requested files in the specified format through your IRCC account.

Contact IRCC Through the Correct Channels

If your application has been in the same status for a long time with no visible progress, you can reach out to IRCC for an update. Applicants inside Canada can call the IRCC Client Support Centre, while those outside Canada should use the official IRCC web form. These channels allow you to request a case status update or correct any information. Avoid sending multiple requests in a short period, as it can overload the system without speeding up your case.

Avoid Sending Unsolicited Documents

One of the most common mistakes applicants make during delays is uploading or emailing extra documents without being asked. While this may seem proactive, it can actually confuse the visa officer and create unnecessary review work. IRCC processes applications in a structured order, and adding unsolicited material can disrupt that workflow. Only send additional documents when explicitly requested in writing.

Stay Patient and Prepared

Visa processing times vary greatly depending on the type of application and the complexity of your case. Delays do not automatically mean a refusal or a serious issue. During this period, keep all your documents organized and accessible in case IRCC contacts you. If your passport may be requested soon, ensure it is valid and ready for submission. Staying calm and prepared helps you act quickly when the next step arrives.

Key Tips to Get Through the Post-Biometrics Stage Smoothly

After giving biometrics, the waiting period can feel uncertain, but staying proactive and organized makes a big difference. By following a few smart practices, you can keep your application on track and respond quickly when needed. Here are key tips to manage through the post-biometrics stage smoothly:

• Check your IRCC account frequently: Updates often appear in your IRCC profile before any email. Logging in regularly helps you spot changes early.
• Whitelist IRCC emails: Add common IRCC and VFS sender addresses to your safe list. This prevents important messages from going to spam.
• Respond quickly to ADRs: Aim to handle Additional Document Requests within 24–72 hours. Always follow the exact file format and size rules given.
• Avoid sending unsolicited documents: Only provide what IRCC specifically asks for. Extra documents can cause confusion or slow down your case.
• Keep a clean document pack ready: Updated copies of bank statements, job letters, itineraries, and proofs save time if IRCC asks for them suddenly.
• Name your files clearly: Use labels like Passport_YourName.pdf or BankStatement_June2025.pdf. Keep scans clear, color, and glare-free at 300 dpi.
• Match details across all forms: Make sure names, addresses, and dates are consistent. Fix any errors quickly using official IRCC channels.
• Prepare for medicals early: Know your nearest panel physician, carry ID and medical history, and book an appointment promptly if instructed.
• Keep your passport valid: Ensure it has enough blank pages and validity. Avoid travel that could prevent timely passport submission.
• Track official IRCC timelines: Use IRCC’s Processing Times tool for accurate estimates. Forums often share unreliable or outdated timelines.
• Plan ahead for VAC logistics: Check your Visa Application Centre’s hours, fees, and courier options. Preparation makes submission easier.
• Stay reachable at all times: Keep your phone active, voicemail ready, and IRCC contact details updated. Don’t risk missing an important update.
• Avoid sudden itinerary changes: If travel dates shift, make sure your supporting documents, like flights or hotels, are updated to match.
• Maintain a personal application tracker: Record key dates like submission, biometrics, ADRs, and letters. A clear timeline helps with IRCC follow-ups.
• Protect your privacy and security: Never share your IRCC login. Use strong passwords and sign out after accessing your account on shared devices.
• Stay patient and organized: Processing delays are common and don’t mean refusal. Organized documents and quick responses give you the best chance.

FAQS About Steps After Biometrics for Canadian Visa

After finishing biometrics, many people still have doubts about what comes next in the Canada visa process. These questions and answers below can help you understand more clearly and avoid confusion. Read them carefully to stay better prepared.

How Do I Know If My Visa Application is Still Active?

You can check your visa application status by logging into your IRCC online account. If it shows statuses like “In progress” or “Under review,” your application is still being processed. You may also receive email updates from IRCC, so check your inbox and spam folder regularly.

Will I Be Called for an Interview After Biometrics?

Not all applicants are required to attend an interview. IRCC will request one only if they need more information or clarification about your application. If called, you will receive instructions via your IRCC account or email. Most applicants complete the process without an interview.

Can I Travel to Another Country After Biometrics?

Yes, you can travel after biometrics as long as IRCC has not requested your passport for visa stamping. If you are abroad when a Passport Request (PPR) arrives, you must still submit your passport within the given deadline, so make sure you can return or arrange courier submission.

Do I Need to Do Biometrics Again If I Apply Later?

In most cases, biometrics are valid for 10 years from the date you gave them. If you apply for another Canadian visa during this period, you will not need to provide biometrics again. You can check your biometrics validity on the IRCC website.

What If I Made a Mistake in My Application After Biometrics?

If you realize there is an error in your application, inform IRCC immediately through the IRCC Web Form. Clearly explain the mistake and provide the corrected information. Do not submit a new application unless IRCC instructs you to do so.

Can I Cancel My Visa Application After Biometrics?

Yes, you can withdraw your application at any time, including after biometrics. You must contact IRCC through your online account or the IRCC Web Form. However, visa application fees are generally non-refundable, even if you cancel.

How Do I Check If My Biometrics Were Received?

After you provide biometrics, IRCC will send a confirmation message to your email. You can also log into your IRCC account to see if the status has been updated to show “Biometrics completed.” Keep the confirmation email for your records.

Is It Possible to Speed Up the Visa Process After Biometrics?

There is no guaranteed way to speed up IRCC’s processing. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, according to visa type. The best way to avoid delays is to submit a complete, accurate application and respond quickly to any IRCC requests.

Will I Get a Message If My Visa is Refused?

Yes. If your visa is refused, IRCC will send an official refusal letter through your IRCC account and often via email. This letter explains the reason for the refusal so you can address it if you decide to reapply in the future.

Wrap Up

Waiting after biometrics can feel slow, but knowing the process helps you stay calm. After giving fingerprints and photos, your file goes through checks for documents, background, and other details before a final decision is made.

Understanding what is the next step after biometrics for Canada visa helps you know what to expect and what you can do. Reply quickly if IRCC asks for anything, and keep all your papers ready.

Processing times are different for everyone, so be patient. Staying neat, checking updates often, and avoiding mistakes can make your chances of getting your visa much better.