Canada Resumes Sudan Biometrics Collection, Offering New Hope for Applicants
- What's New: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has resumed biometric collection services within Sudan through a partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
- Who Is Affected: The service is initially for individuals with in-progress applications under the family-based permanent residence pathway and Canada’s resettlement programs.
- Key Action: Services are by appointment only. Eligible applicants will be contacted directly by the IOM to schedule an appointment.
On July 24, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) delivered a significant update for individuals in Sudan applying to come to Canada. The department announced the resumption of crucial Sudan biometrics collection services, which had been previously paused. This development, facilitated by a new partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), removes a major obstacle for applicants who were unable to safely leave the country to complete this mandatory step.
Who Does This Affect?
This announcement directly impacts specific groups of applicants who already have an application in progress with IRCC. The new in-country service is targeted at:
- Individuals with active applications under the family-based permanent residence pathway.
- Applicants being processed through Canada’s official resettlement programs from Sudan.
It is important to note that this service is not open to the general public or new applicants at this time. The process is strictly managed, and only those contacted by the IOM will be able to access these services.
Detailed Breakdown of the Changes
The resumption of biometric services introduces a new, streamlined process designed to function within the current operational realities in Sudan. Here is a closer look at how it will work.
An Invitation-Only System
The most critical aspect of this new system is that it is entirely appointment-based. Applicants cannot book an appointment themselves. Instead, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) will contact eligible individuals directly to schedule a time for their biometric collection. This proactive approach ensures an orderly and secure process for everyone involved.
Integrated Medical Examinations
In addition to biometrics, the IOM may also schedule necessary immigration medical exams for applicants. The announcement states that the IOM "will try to book biometric collection appointments and medical exams together wherever possible." This coordination aims to minimize travel and logistical challenges for applicants by allowing them to complete multiple application requirements in a single visit.
Context and Implications (The "Why")
The previous suspension of biometric services in Sudan created a significant bottleneck, effectively stalling the applications of many individuals. The inability to travel safely to a neighbouring country to visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) left many families and refugees in a state of uncertainty. This partnership between IRCC and the IOM is a direct response to that challenge.
By establishing a collection service inside Sudan, the Canadian government is demonstrating its commitment to facilitating family reunification and processing refugee applications, even in complex environments. This move acknowledges the difficulties on the ground and provides a practical pathway forward, aligning with Canada's broader humanitarian and immigration objectives.
How to Prepare
If you believe you are in one of the affected applicant groups, here are the recommended next steps:
- Wait to be contacted: Do not attempt to contact the IOM or IRCC to request an appointment. The IOM will reach out to you using the contact information on your application file.
- Check your contact information: Ensure that the email address and phone number associated with your application are up to date and that you are monitoring them closely for any communications.
- Prepare your documents: When you are contacted for an appointment, have your passport and any other required identification or application documents ready.
- Learn about the process: You can learn more about what to expect during your appointment on the official IRCC page about .
Conclusion
The resumption of biometric services in Sudan is a welcome and vital development for many Canadian immigration applicants. This collaboration between IRCC and the IOM provides a secure and accessible solution, renewing hope for families and refugees waiting to complete their journey to Canada. Affected individuals should remain patient and wait for direct communication from the IOM to proceed with the next steps in their application.