Biometrics collection services coming to Labrador in 2027

Biometrics collection services are expected to become available in Happy Valley-Goose Bay early next year, giving people in Labrador a closer option for completing immigration requirements.

The provincial government says the federal service is on track to begin operating in the community in early 2027.

The announcement follows a visit to St. John’s last week by federal Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Lena Metlege Diab, who met with provincial Minister Lin Paddock.

Biometrics, which include fingerprints and a photograph, are used to confirm an applicant’s identity and help assess immigration applications.

The Happy Valley-Goose Bay location will be the second biometrics collection site in Newfoundland and Labrador. The only current location is in St. John’s, meaning people elsewhere in the province may have to travel to the capital to complete the requirement.

The provincial government says the new location follows advocacy for expanded federal biometrics services and is intended to improve access for newcomers, workers, students and families in Labrador.

Biometrics collection services are delivered through designated Service Canada locations.