Time Frame for Biometric Submission After Submitting a PR Application for Canada

When you submit a Permanent Resident (PR) application for Canada, obtaining your biometric requirements can vary in time. This article will help you understand the general timeline and factors that influence this process.

General Timeline and Factors Affecting Delays

After receiving an Assessment Officer (AO) request (AOR), you might receive a biometrics letter within a week, or it could take one to two months. This variability is due to the workload and processing capacity at the visa office.

Post receiving your biometrics request, you typically have 30 days to provide your biometrics at a designated location. Staying updated is crucial, as your application status may change, and you might receive additional instructions. The total process, from submission to biometrics appointment, can span from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on individual circumstances.

Travel Time and Local Processing Center

Travel time is a significant factor in the entire process. If you need to travel to a biometrics collection center, the time required to reach there should be factored in. This can add days or even weeks to the overall timeline. Additionally, the location of the nearest processing center and the number of applicants in your region can prolong the process.

Comparison from Different Countries

Biometric requirements and processing times can vary depending on your country of origin. If you are from Mexico, biometrics can be completed within 2 to 3 months. Latin American regions might take longer due to varying local workloads and processing capabilities.

CRS Score and Processing Prioritization

Canada uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to prioritize applications. Appraisals start with the highest scores. This means that faster processing times can be experienced by applicants with higher CRS scores. In some cases, like in the scenario where an applicant received a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) within 16 working days, the process can be quite quick.

A real-life example is provided where an applicant received their COPR, and within 12 days of it being ready, they found out that the processing time had exceeded the estimated 6 months. This indicates that the usual processing times can indeed vary, often taking longer than anticipated.

To stay informed about processing times and receive the most accurate information, it is advisable to refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for updates specific to your country's processing times.