Canadian immigration has become more accessible for people in Sudan following a significant update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Effective July 24, 2025, IRCC, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has resumed biometric collection services in Sudan.
For many applicants, biometric collection is a critical step in the immigration process. Without it, applications for permanent residence, refugee resettlement, or family sponsorship cannot move forward.
In previous years, individuals in Sudan often had to travel to neighboring countries, facing high travel costs and safety risks, just to fulfill this requirement. This recent development now allows eligible applicants to complete this essential step without leaving Sudan, making Canadian immigration more accessible and efficient.
Why Biometrics Are Essential for Canadian Immigration
Biometrics fingerprints and photographs, are vital for verifying an applicant’s identity and enhancing Canada’s border security. This step helps immigration officers:
- Confirm the applicant’s identity accurately
- Prevent identity fraud and duplication of applications
- Facilitate faster and more secure entry into Canada
In most Canadian immigration streams, biometrics are mandatory. Without them, applications cannot be processed further. By restoring this service in Sudan, Canada is removing one of the biggest hurdles faced by applicants in the region.
Who Can Access Biometric Collection in Sudan?
Not all applicants can immediately access these services. IRCC and IOM have implemented a structured, appointment-only system that gives priority to:
- Applicants with ongoing family-based permanent residence applications
- Refugees and individuals under Canada’s resettlement programs
The IOM will directly contact eligible applicants via official communication channels to schedule biometric collection appointments. In some cases, IOM may also arrange for a medical examination on the same day and location for maximum convenience. Only individuals contacted by IOM and with confirmed appointments will be allowed to provide their biometrics.
How the Appointment System Works
This process is not walk-in based. Here’s how it works:
- Eligibility Check: Only applicants with pending Canadian immigration applications under family-based permanent residence or refugee resettlement are eligible.
- Direct Contact: IOM representatives will reach out to eligible applicants to set up an appointment.
- Appointment Confirmation: Applicants must receive and confirm their appointment date and time before attending.
- Optional Medical Exams: In some cases, IOM may combine biometrics and medical examinations during the same visit to save time and reduce travel efforts.
This system reduces crowding, increases efficiency, and ensures applicants receive proper guidance throughout the process.
Benefits for Sudanese Applicants
For Sudanese applicants, this development is a game-changer. Previously, the suspension of biometric collection meant many individuals were unable to progress with their immigration applications. Now, with services available locally, applicants can:
- Save Money: No need to travel to another country to provide biometrics
- Avoid Safety Risks: Travel outside Sudan was often unsafe and stressful
- Speed Up Processing: With biometrics completed locally, application timelines can move forward more quickly
This change particularly benefits families who have been waiting to reunite in Canada and refugees seeking resettlement under humanitarian programs.
Impact on Family Reunification and Refugee Programs
Canada places a high priority on family reunification and humanitarian support. By restoring biometric services in Sudan, IRCC is helping ensure families can complete their applications more efficiently and refugees have better access to Canada’s resettlement programs.
This update also supports Canada’s goal of processing immigration applications more quickly and fairly. For refugees and individuals under humanitarian pathways, delays in biometric collection often mean prolonged uncertainty and, in some cases, dangerous living situations. This strategic reopening demonstrates Canada’s focus on reducing obstacles for vulnerable groups.
What Should Applicants Do Next?
For eligible applicants:
- Wait for direct communication from IOM. There is no need to apply separately or request an appointment.
- Prepare necessary documents (such as a valid passport and application confirmation).
- Be on time for your scheduled biometric collection and, if applicable, medical exam.
For those who have not yet applied for Canadian immigration but are considering it, this is an ideal time to explore different pathways, as biometric services are now accessible in Sudan. Consulting with trusted immigration professionals can help applicants choose the best pathway and prepare a strong application.
The decision to resume biometric collection services in Sudan is a crucial development for Canadian immigration applicants. It eliminates major barriers faced by individuals who were previously unable to complete essential steps in their immigration journey. By working with IOM, IRCC is ensuring that applicants have a safe, accessible, and efficient way to move forward.
For families waiting to reunite and refugees seeking safe resettlement, this update is more than an administrative change; it’s an opportunity for a better future. Applicants should remain alert for communications from IOM and prepare to complete this important step, bringing them one step closer to starting their lives in Canada.
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