Canada Visa Appointment Booking (2026)

For a Canada visitor visa, there is no in-person interview — the application is submitted entirely online through the IRCC portal. The only in-person appointment you need is for biometrics at a VFS Global Visa Application Centre (VAC) after your online application is submitted and fees are paid. This guide explains when and how to book your biometrics appointment.

Last updated: June 2026

What Is the VFS Biometrics Appointment?

Biometrics means fingerprints and a digital photograph taken by trained VFS staff. Canada uses biometrics to confirm identity and run background checks. Once you give biometrics, they are valid for 10 years — you do not repeat them for subsequent applications within that period (unless IRCC requires a new collection).

Biometrics are required for most applicants aged 14–79. Children under 14 and adults 80+ are exempt.

Step 1 — Submit Your Online Application First

Do not book a VFS appointment before submitting your application. The sequence is:

  1. Complete and submit your IRCC application online (with documents and fees paid)
  2. Receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL) by email — usually within 24 hours
  3. Then book your VFS appointment

The BIL contains a Biometrics Collection Service Request code that you need when booking the VFS appointment.

Step 2 — Book Your VFS Appointment

  1. Go to the VFS Global website for your country (e.g., VFS Global Canada India)
  2. Click "Schedule Appointment" or "Book an Appointment"
  3. Select your country and the nearest VAC city
  4. Enter your application number, BIL code, and personal details
  5. Choose an available date and time slot
  6. Pay the VFS service fee (charged in local currency)
  7. Receive a confirmation email with your appointment details

What to Bring to the VFS Appointment

  • Original passport (the one submitted in your application)
  • Printed copy of the Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL)
  • VFS appointment confirmation printout
  • VFS service fee (if not paid online in advance)
  • Do not bring food, large bags, or additional visitors — VAC centres typically allow only the applicant inside

You do not need to bring your full document set to the biometrics appointment — those have already been submitted online.

How Long Does the Biometrics Appointment Take?

A biometrics appointment typically takes 15–30 minutes. Staff scan your fingerprints (all 10 fingers) and take a digital photo. Your passport is returned to you at the end of the appointment — it is not retained at this stage.

Deadline to Give Biometrics

After receiving your BIL, you have a limited window to give biometrics — typically 30 days (check your BIL for the exact deadline). Missing this deadline can cause your application to be abandoned by IRCC. Book as soon as possible after receiving the BIL, especially if VAC appointment slots are limited in your city.

Rescheduling or Cancelling Your VFS Appointment

You can reschedule your appointment through the VFS portal. Do not miss an appointment without rescheduling — missed appointments without cancellation may result in a cancellation fee. If you need to cancel entirely and the BIL deadline is approaching, contact VFS Global customer service promptly.

Passport Submission for Visa Stamping

If your visa is approved, IRCC will issue a separate notification asking you to submit your passport to the VAC for visa stamping. This is a second VAC visit — or you may be able to use a passport submission service by mail in some countries. Check VFS Global's process for your country.

Official References

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book a Canada visa biometrics appointment?

Book as soon as you receive the Biometrics Instruction Letter — ideally within 24–48 hours. VFS appointment slots in high-demand cities (Mumbai, Delhi, Lagos) fill quickly. You typically have 30 days from the BIL to give biometrics, so act quickly to avoid running out of slots.

Can I reschedule my Canada visa appointment at VFS?

Yes. Log into the VFS Global appointment portal and reschedule to an available slot. Note the biometrics deadline on your BIL — ensure your rescheduled date is before the deadline. Some VFS centres charge a fee for rescheduling.

Do I need an appointment for Canada visa from India?

Yes. After submitting your application online and receiving the BIL, you must book a biometrics appointment at a VFS Global Canada VAC in India. Walk-in appointments are not available — you must book online through the VFS portal in advance.

What is the VFS service charge for Canada visa?

VFS service charges vary by country. In India, the charge is typically ₹2,800–₹3,500 per applicant. This is separate from the IRCC application fee (CAD $185) and biometrics fee (CAD $85). See the Canada visa fees guide for a full cost breakdown.

What happens if I miss my Canada visa biometrics appointment?

Missing the appointment without rescheduling wastes the slot. You can rebook online as long as a slot is available before the BIL deadline. If the BIL deadline passes without biometrics being given, IRCC may close your application as incomplete — requiring you to reapply and pay fees again.