Identification criteria to obtain certain Canadian visas, including for Bermudian students, can be collected on the island during April through a continuing partnership with the Consulate-General of Canada.

The Ministry of Economy and Labour said there would be a biometric collection session held at the immigration department on April 9 for Bermudians requiring the ID.

Specific identification criteria are mandatory for some people who apply for a Canadian visitor visa, work or study permit, or permanent residency in Canada, as well as all international students.

The island’s partnership with Canada, launched in 2019, means applicants can provide biometric details without having to travel overseas.

The session will be hosted at the department’s offices in the Government Administration Building on Parliament Street in Hamilton from 9am to noon, and from 1pm to 4pm.

It is open to Bermuda residents who have filed the requisite applications and paid the fees of $85 Canadian dollars per person or the $170 maximum per family.

Applicants must also hold a biometrics instruction letter from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Those applying online for study or work permits or visitor visas and who pay the biometrics fee can get the instruction letter within 24 hours.

Those eligible have 30 days after receiving the letter to provide biometrics.

Appointments must be booked by e-mailing CNGNYConsular@international.gc.ca with surname and given name, date of birth, phone number and a copy of the instruction letter.

The Consulate-General is to respond in two business days, beginning Wednesday.

Attendees on April 9 should bring the letter along with a valid passport and travel documents, and arrive 15 minutes before their appointment.

Those unable to attend the department in person can apply online through the Government of Canada website.

The ministry asked the public not to direct their queries at Bermuda immigration officials, who cannot assist with the procedure.