Canada to Open New Labrador Biometrics Site in 2027

The federal government plans to open a new immigration biometrics collection site in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador, in January 2027, reducing the long-distance travel currently required for many applicants.

Once the location begins operations, people living in Labrador who need to provide biometrics for Canadian immigration applications will be able to complete the process locally.

The change is expected to make immigration services more accessible for residents of the region, particularly those who currently must travel hundreds of kilometres to provide fingerprints and photographs.

Long Trips Currently Required

Many Labrador residents who need immigration biometrics currently travel to St. John's, Newfoundland.

The distance between Happy Valley-Goose Bay and St. John's creates a significant challenge. Travelling by air involves a journey of roughly 900 kilometres, while travelling by road and ferry can cover about 1,600 kilometres.

For applicants, that can mean additional transportation costs, time away from work and other expenses simply to complete a required step in an immigration application.

The new site will allow eligible applicants to complete that requirement much closer to home.

Opening Planned for January 2027

Immigration Minister Lena Diab announced the plan during a news conference in St. John's on September 29, 2026.

The federal government expects the Happy Valley-Goose Bay location to begin collecting biometrics in January 2027.

The announcement represents an expansion of immigration services available directly within Labrador.

Happy Valley-Goose Bay is Labrador's largest population centre. According to the 2021 Census, the community had a population of 8,040.

Its location makes it an important service centre for residents across the region.

What Immigration Biometrics Include

Biometrics are used by Canadian immigration authorities to confirm an applicant's identity.

For immigration purposes, biometrics generally consist of a digital photograph and fingerprints.

Many foreign nationals must provide this information as part of applications to enter or remain in Canada.

Biometrics requirements can apply to temporary residence applications, including certain applications for work permits, study permits and visitor status.

They also apply to permanent residence applications.

Some PR Card Renewals Also Affected

Biometrics may also be required in certain permanent resident card renewal cases.

This can apply when a permanent resident was exempt from providing biometrics because of their age when they originally applied for permanent residence.

If biometrics are later required during the renewal process, having a collection location in Labrador could reduce the need for residents to travel outside the region.

The new facility therefore has the potential to benefit both new immigration applicants and some people who already hold permanent resident status.

Improving Access in Labrador

Opening a collection site in Happy Valley-Goose Bay will not change Canada's underlying immigration biometrics requirements.

Instead, the change will expand where applicants can complete them.

For people living in Labrador, the practical difference could be significant. Instead of arranging a long journey to St. John's, eligible applicants will have access to biometrics collection within the region beginning in January.