The biometric appointment procedure for Canada has been modified in India. Starting on 20 February 2026, applicants will be required to utilize VFS Global’s new AMS portal, and from 23 February, it will be compulsory to upload the Biometric Instruction Letter.
If you’re submitting an application for a Canadian visa from India, there is a minor yet significant alteration regarding the biometric appointment.
Beginning 21 February 2026, the procedure for securing your biometric appointment at a Canadian Visa Application Centre will undergo a change. This adjustment impacts anyone required to provide fingerprints and a photograph as part of their visa application.
VFS Global’s Updated Appointment System
The biometric appointment process in India is overseen by VFS Global, which operates Canada Visa Application Centres throughout the nation.
Previously, applicants booked their biometric enrollment slots through a different web form.
Effective from 21 February 2026, all bookings will transition to a new online platform called the Appointment Management System, also known as AMS. This platform is designed to simplify and streamline the entire process.
Mandatory Upload of Your Biometric Instruction Letter
Another vital date is 23 February 2026, after which everyone making an appointment for biometrics must upload their Biometric Instruction Letter via the AMS portal.
This document is provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) upon submitting your visa application and paying the biometric fees.
Ensure that you upload the letter exactly as you received it. Alterations or modifications are not allowed.
Failing to upload it means you won’t be able to finalize your appointment.
Capabilities of the New System
The new AMS platform provides the following options:
- Choose your desired date and time
- Reschedule your biometric appointment online
- Cancel your appointment if necessary
- Directly upload your Biometric Instruction Letter
In essence, this gives you greater autonomy over your booking instead of depending on a separate request mechanism. For numerous applicants, particularly during busy travel periods, this adaptability can indeed be advantageous.
We have an important update for our Canada visa applicants in India.
For more information, please visit: https://t.co/UUhveckOCk pic.twitter.com/GgY0tBM2bN
— VFS Global (@VFSGlobal) February 20, 2026
What Remains Unchanged
It is crucial to note that the process for scheduling passport submission appointments stays unchanged. The link and system utilized for passport submissions are not impacted by this revision.
This modification pertains solely to biometric enrollment appointments.
Significance of This Change for Canada Visa Applicants from India
Providing biometrics is essential for the majority of temporary resident visas, work permits, and study permits for Canada. Delaying or skipping your biometric appointment can hinder your overall visa processing timeline.
Should you already possess a Biometric Instruction Letter or anticipate receiving one soon, ensure to use the new Appointment Management System post-20 February 2026.
Although it’s a technical update, minor changes to the system can cause confusion if not properly understood.
Before you make a booking, verify the official VFS Global website to confirm you are utilizing the correct portal.
While staying informed may not seem thrilling, it is crucial to saving time and minimizing stress during visa applications.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
