IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The government is now requiring change of status and extension applicants to resubmit biometrics for new residence permit cards.

What does the change mean? Applicants will have to make an appointment with the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) to submit biometrics in person, extending the overall application process for extensions and change of status.

  • Implementation time frame: Jan. 1, 2020.
  • Visas/permits affected: Residence permits.
  • Who is affected: Residence permit holders applying for an extension of their visa or change of status.
  • Impact on processing: Submission of biometrics after application approval could extend the time it takes to receive the new residence card. The biometrics appointment means applicants will now have to visit the IND twice, as they must also attend an appointment to collect the new residence permit card.
  • Next steps: To avoid delays, extension and change of status applicants are advised to schedule a biometrics appointment on receipt of confirmation that the IND has received their application.

Background: Previously, foreign nationals did not have to resubmit biometrics with each new application to receive a new residence permit card. The applicant only had to resubmit new biometric data when the already present biometric data was submitted prior to 2014.

Analysis & Comments: The new requirement means that foreign nationals applying for extensions or change of status must make an appointment with the IND to submit biometrics either after confirmation of application receipt or following approval of their application. A new photo and signature will be required of each applicant at the appointment, and the IND may also decide to take new fingerprints. Applicants are advised to make a biometrics appointment after confirmation of application receipt, as waiting until application approval will delay the process of issuing the new residence card.

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