Canada Visa Applicants in India Face New Biometric Appointment Rules

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If you’re applying for a Canadian visa from India, there’s a small but important change you need to know about the biometric appointment.

Starting from 21 February 2026, the way you book your biometric appointment at a Canada Visa Application Centre will change. The update affects anyone who needs to give fingerprints and a photo as part of their visa process.

New Appointment System by VFS Global

Biometric appointments in India are handled by VFS Global, which manages Canada Visa Application Centres across the country.

Until now, applicants used a separate web form to book their biometric enrolment slot.

From 21 February 2026, bookings will shift to a new online platform called the Appointment Management System, or AMS. This system is meant to make the process simpler and more direct.

Uploading Your Biometric Instruction Letter Is Now Mandatory

There’s another key date to remember. From 23 February 2026, anyone booking a biometric appointment must upload their Biometric Instruction Letter through the AMS portal.

This letter is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) after you submit your visa application and pay the biometric fee.

You must upload the letter in the same format you received it. No edits. No changes.

Without it, you won’t be able to secure your appointment.

What You Can Do With the New System

The new AMS platform allows you to:

  • Select your preferred date and time
  • Reschedule your biometric appointment online
  • Cancel your slot if needed
  • Upload your Biometric Instruction Letter directly

In short, you gain more control over your booking rather than relying on a separate request process. For many applicants, especially during peak travel seasons, that flexibility can make a real difference.

What Has Not Changed

Here’s something important. The process for booking passport submission appointments remains the same. The link and system used for passport submission are not affected by this update.

This change only applies to biometric enrolment appointments.

Why This Matters for Canada Visa Applicants in India

Biometrics are mandatory for most temporary resident visas, work permits, and study permits for Canada. Missing or delaying your biometric appointment can slow down your overall visa processing time.

If you already have a Biometric Instruction Letter or expect to receive one soon, make sure you use the new Appointment Management System after 20 February 2026.

It’s a technical update, yes. But small system changes like this can confuse you if you are not aware of them.

Before booking, double-check the official VFS Global website to make sure you are using the correct portal.

Staying updated may not be exciting, but when it comes to visa applications, it saves time and stress.

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