Definition
Your fingerprints and a digital photo, captured when you apply for a visa or cross certain borders. For Schengen, UK, US and Canadian visas, Indians give biometrics in person at a visa centre, which is why these applications need an appointment.
Where Indians give biometrics
| Visa | Where | Reused? |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen | Visa centre | Up to 59 months in the EU's Visa Information System |
| UK | Visa centre | Usually taken with each application |
| US | Visa Application Centre, before the interview | Usually taken with each application |
| Canada | Visa centre | Valid for 10 years |
Children under 12 do not give fingerprints for Schengen visas. Canada's biometrics fee is CAD 85 (about ₹5,400) per person, with a cap for families.
What the appointment involves
You arrive at your slot time, submit documents, then sit at a counter where ten fingerprints are scanned and a photo is taken. It takes 10–20 minutes once you reach the counter. One very Indian tip: heavy fresh mehendi on the fingertips can make fingerprint scans fail, so brides and wedding guests should book before the functions or after the colour fades.
Biometrics at the border
Under the EU's Entry/Exit System, Indians entering a Schengen country also have a facial image taken and fingerprints checked at their first entry, even with a visa. Expect longer queues at Frankfurt, Paris or Milan on that trip.
Example
A Hyderabad family applies for a UK visa in May and a Schengen visa in September. They need two separate biometrics appointments. If they apply for Schengen again within 59 months, fresh fingerprints may be skipped, but they usually still visit the centre to hand in passports.
Practical advice
Book at the nearest VFS Global or equivalent centre, carry originals, and skip paid add-ons you don't need. Our visa assistance service prepares the file before your appointment.