Canada Resumes Biometric Services in Sudan: A Major Update for Family and Refugee Applicants
- What's New: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has resumed biometric collection services within Sudan for specific immigration applicants.
- Who is Affected: Individuals with in-progress applications under the family-based permanent residence pathway and Canada’s resettlement programs.
- Key Action: The process is by appointment only; the International Organization for Migration (IOM) will contact eligible applicants directly to schedule.
In a significant development for many applicants in Sudan, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on July 24, 2025, that it is resuming biometric collection services inside the country. This move, made in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), resolves a major processing obstacle that had stalled the applications of individuals unable to safely travel abroad. The resumption of Canada biometrics in Sudan provides a clear path forward for eligible family members and refugees seeking to come to Canada.
Who Does This Affect?
This announcement specifically impacts individuals who have an existing, in-progress application with IRCC under one of the following streams:
- Applicants in the family-based permanent residence pathway (often referred to as family sponsorship).
- Applicants being processed through one of Canada’s resettlement programs for refugees and protected persons.
It is crucial to note that this service is not open to the general public or for new applications at this stage. Only those who are contacted directly by the IOM will be able to provide their biometrics in Sudan.
Detailed Breakdown of the Changes
The new process is designed to be orderly and secure, addressing the challenges that led to the initial suspension of services. Here is a closer look at how the system will work.
A Partnership-Led Approach
IRCC is not operating the collection centers directly. Instead, it has partnered with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), a trusted global partner with extensive experience in providing administrative and health services for migrants. The IOM will be responsible for all logistical aspects on the ground, including scheduling and conducting the appointments.
Strictly by Appointment Only
IRCC has emphasized that biometric collection will be available by appointment only. The IOM will proactively contact eligible applicants who have applications in progress to schedule a time and location. Applicants should not attempt to contact the IOM or IRCC to book an appointment, as this will not be possible. The IOM will initiate all communication.
Streamlined Medical Examinations
To further facilitate the application process, the IOM may also schedule a mandatory immigration medical exam for applicants. The announcement states, "IOM will try to book biometric collection appointments and medical exams together wherever possible." This integrated approach aims to reduce travel and logistical burdens for applicants by completing two essential requirements in a single visit.
Context and Implications (The "Why")
The previous pause in biometric services in Sudan created a significant bottleneck for many applicants. Biometrics, which include fingerprints and a photograph, are a mandatory security and identity verification step for most Canadian immigration applications. Without a way to provide them, applications could not be finalized. The statement from IRCC notes that the suspension made it "difficult for people who were unable to safely leave Sudan to complete their applications." This resumption directly addresses that humanitarian and logistical challenge. For families waiting to be reunited and refugees seeking safety, this change removes a critical barrier and renews hope that their journey to Canada can proceed.
How to Prepare
If you believe you are in one of the affected groups, here are the recommended next steps:
- Wait for Communication: Do not take any action until you are contacted by the IOM. Ensure your contact information on your IRCC application is up to date.
- Monitor Your Messages: Regularly check the email address and phone number you provided to IRCC for any messages from the IOM.
- Prepare Your Documents: Have your identification documents (such as your passport or travel document) ready for your appointment when it is scheduled.
- Learn About Biometrics: You can find more information on what to expect during the process on the official IRCC website, which explains .
Conclusion
The resumption of biometric collection in Sudan is a welcome and vital update from IRCC. By partnering with the IOM, Canada is providing a secure and accessible pathway for family sponsorship and refugee applicants to complete a mandatory step in their immigration process. While the service is currently limited to specific groups by invitation only, it marks a positive step towards resolving application backlogs and reuniting families.
