Canada Introduces New Visa Rule; Makes Biometrics Mandatory for Visa Applicants

Canada has made biometrics mandatory for the nationals of thirty Jurisdictions applying for Canadian visitor visas, study permits, or work permits, commencing 2013. Applicants seeking to enter Canada will now have to provide finger prints and digital photographs. Biometrics of the travelers entering into Canada will also be confirmed.

The new visa regulation will be applicable to the passport holders of the following jurisdictions: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Bangladesh, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Laos, Lebanon, Libya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestinian Authority, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, Vietnam, and Yemen.

The new rule will not apply to - Canadian citizens, permanent residents and applicants below 14 years or above 79 years of age.  NairCo