April 3, 2012

Canada to use Biometrics to Prevent Identity Fraud

The Protecting Canada’s immigration System Act will now allow the Government to collect biometric information from certain clients (approximately 300-350k per year) who are applying for a visa, study and work permit. The main objective is to prevent identity fraud and to avoid previously deported persons and failed asylum claimants from re-entering Canada and/or making a subsequent claims.

Applicants will be required to provide fingerprints and digital in-person photos; information which will be encrypted and sent to RCMP where it will be scanned against data in the RCMP’s existing database (includes deportees and asylum claimants since 1993, as well as Canadian criminal records)

The government intends to negotiate a contract with biometrics collectors with regards to standards, controls and processes. The expansion of biometrics facilitates at Visa Application Centers is expected to being late Fall 2012.