The biometric identification required for Canadian visa applicants in Bermuda is not available locally because of a travel ban on Canadian public servants caused by the pandemic.

The service, which is mandatory for foreign students, had formerly been available on the island.

Students must now go overseas to obtain the test required.

The Ministry of Labour said biometric enrolment is available by appointment at 135 application support centres in the United States. Students seeking a study permit in Canada should apply online.

Instructions will be sent to select a visa application centre or application support centre overseas, with the time frame for submitting biometrics normally within 30 days.

If more time is needed, a request for an extension can be e-mailed to the Government of Canada office at NewYork-im-enquiry@international.gc.ca.

Jason Hayward, the labour minister, said the need to go overseas was an unfortunate outcome of the pandemic.

He added: “The Department of Immigration will closely monitor this situation and immediately notify the public should circumstances change.”

• The instructions are posted at http://www.cic.gc.ca/ENGLISH/information/applications/student.asp