New Visa Application Centres open in Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe and Africa November 2, 2018 – Ottawa, ON – Canada is expanding its biometrics collection program and is now taking steps to prepare for December 31, 2018, when nationals from countries in Asia, Asia Pacific and the Americas will need to give their biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) when applying for a visitor visa, study or work permit, or for permanent residence.