July 25, 2025

Canada Restarts Biometrics in Sudan – Here’s What You Need to Know

A Much-Needed Update for Sudanese Applicants

For many Sudanese applicants who’ve been waiting patiently, there’s finally good news. Canada has officially resumed biometric collection services in Sudan as of July 24, 2025. After more than a year of paused services due to safety concerns, this move is a critical step forward for people stuck in limbo—especially those applying through family sponsorship or refugee resettlement pathways. If you’re trying to bring loved ones to Canada, or you’re currently inside Sudan with a pending immigration case, this update changes everything.

So, What Does This Actually Mean?

Biometrics—fingerprints and photos—are required for most immigration applications. But when Sudan’s collection centers were shut down in 2023, thousands of applicants were left with no way to complete their paperwork. Now, Canada’s working alongside the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to restart the process safely and efficiently within Sudan. Instead of traveling long distances or to other countries, eligible applicants will now be contacted by IOM to book appointments right where they are. We’re already helping families move forward at Sayal Immigration. If you’re looking for an Immigration Consultant in Mississauga or nearby, our team is ready to guide you through this.

Here’s How It Works

This isn’t a walk-in service—you can’t just show up. IOM will reach out directly to applicants who are eligible. If your application has been stuck because you couldn’t complete biometrics, watch your inbox or phone for an official invitation. What’s even better? In many cases, they’re planning to schedule medical exams on the same day, saving you time and reducing stress. And if you’re confused about what to bring or how to prepare, our advisors—whether you’re looking for an Immigration Consultant in Brampton or Kitchener—can walk you through every step.

Who Is This For?

This biometric reopening mostly applies to:
  • Family-based permanent residence applicants
  • Refugee resettlement cases filed before services were paused
  • People whose biometrics were never completed due to shutdowns
If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, now’s the time to speak with a qualified advisor. We’ve had clients from across the GTA—especially those needing an Immigration Consultant in Toronto—who thought they were ineligible but turned out to be next in line.

What You Should Do Next

There’s no need to panic—but you do need to act. Here’s what we recommend:
  1. Check your email, spam folder, and voicemails regularly. That IOM call or message might already be waiting for you.
  2. Update your contact information with IRCC and IOM, if needed.
  3. Prepare your paperwork. You’ll need ID, your immigration file number, and any related IRCC correspondence.
  4. If you’re confused, get help. Whether you need an Immigration Consultant in Scarborough or another area, don’t try to guess your way through it. It’s too important.

Canada’s Broader Support for Sudan

This isn’t just a random update. It’s part of Canada’s larger effort to help Sudanese nationals affected by the conflict that erupted in April 2023. According to the Government of Canada’s Sudan Response, thousands of Sudanese applicants have already been approved for permanent or temporary residence. Still, many couldn’t complete their applications because biometric collection simply wasn’t available. That roadblock is now being cleared—and at Sayal Immigration, we’re ready to help you move forward.

Problems You Might Face (And How to Handle Them)

Of course, even with services resumed, things won’t be perfect.
Possible Problem What You Can Do
Haven’t heard from IOM yet? Contact us. We’ll help you follow up the right way.
Unsure if you’re eligible? We can check your file and confirm your status.
Missed a scheduled appointment? We can work on rescheduling or reinitiating contact.
Whether you’re working with an Immigration Consultant in Canada or coordinating from overseas, don’t try to tackle this alone.

IOM: A Safe, Reliable Partner in Sudan

The IOM office in Sudan is coordinating both biometric and medical exams, with a strong focus on safety and organization. This isn’t some chaotic rollout—appointments are carefully managed to reduce travel and protect applicants’ security. And if you’re unsure about safety or logistics, we can help make arrangements. Many of our clients—from those needing an Immigration Consultant in London Ontario to newcomers applying for sponsorship—have relied on our coordinated support with IOM in the past.

Real People. Real Progress.

At Sayal Immigration, we’ve spent years helping clients from Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan, and beyond. We understand how complex—and emotional—these processes can be. We also know how rewarding it is when families reunite or when newcomers finally get their visas. If you’ve been stuck in this process, you don’t need to wait in silence anymore. The doors are opening again, and we’re here to walk you through.

Final Thought: Let’s Get You One Step Closer to Canada

From Mississauga to Scarborough, from Brampton to Kitchener, our team is on your side. If your application has been frozen because of missing biometrics, now is the time to act. Don’t risk losing your chance. Don’t delay your progress. Let Sayal Immigration help you make the most of this long-awaited reopening.
June 13, 2025

Canada’s EMPP Extension: Real Opportunities for Refugees and Employers

In a move that speaks volumes about Canada’s commitment to both economic growth and humanitarian support, the federal government has extended the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP) until December 31, 2025. This extension isn’t just a policy update—it’s an opportunity for real people and real businesses. At Sayal Immigration, we see the power of such programs daily. Whether you’re an employer dealing with a talent crunch or a skilled refugee looking to start fresh, this program could be your gateway. Having the right Immigration Consultant in Canada on your side makes the difference, and we’re here to help. Learn more from the official IRCC EMPP page

1. EMPP: A Pathway That Works

Back in 2019, Canada launched the EMPP as a way to help refugees with work experience and skills enter the country through economic immigration rather than the traditional resettlement stream. It gave people a path to not just safety—but to self-sufficiency and contribution. Now, with the extension, even more skilled individuals displaced by conflict or crisis can apply for permanent residency. If you’re working with a knowledgeable Immigration Consultant in Mississauga or another part of the country, your path just got clearer. Explore refugee labour mobility initiatives from UNHCR

2. By the Numbers

Since its start, EMPP has welcomed 970 newcomers, many of whom now work in Canada’s most in-demand sectors like health care, construction, and hospitality. It’s not just about numbers, though. Every job offer, every visa approval represents a person, a family, and a fresh start. This year, Canada will accept up to 950 applications through the job-offer stream, along with another 150 in the no-offer stream.

3. Why This Matters—Right Now

Employers are struggling to find workers in many parts of Canada. With over 700 healthcare vacancies and a looming shortfall of 300,000 skilled tradespeople by 2030, the timing of this program couldn’t be better. That’s where we come in. At Sayal Immigration, we’ve helped employers from across the province—including those looking for an Immigration Consultant in Brampton or an Immigration Consultant in Kitchener—connect with qualified candidates who are ready to contribute. For refugees, EMPP offers a chance to skip the long lines of traditional resettlement and apply directly based on their skills. They also get help with application fees, medical exams, and even travel arrangements. Check current labour shortages on Job Bank Canada

4. How It Works: A Quick Overview

To qualify under EMPP, candidates must be either a refugee or displaced person and meet certain criteria:
  • A job offer from a Canadian employer (for the main stream)
  • At least one year of relevant work experience
  • English or French language proficiency
  • Basic education and proof of settlement funds
There’s also a smaller stream for those without a job offer—but it’s more competitive and requires higher language scores. All applicants receive support such as waived fees and faster processing (averaging 6 months).

5. Real People, Real Stories

We’ve seen this program change lives. Take Mohammad, a welder from Syria, who now works full-time in British Columbia, supporting his family and training new apprentices. Or Diana, a nurse from Venezuela, who found a position in a long-term care facility outside Toronto and is now helping others every day. Programs like EMPP aren’t just stats—they’re stepping stones to real futures. Read how global EMPP models are being adopted – World Economic Forum

6. What’s Still Challenging

While the EMPP is working well, there are still bumps in the road:
  • The total number of available spots (950 job-offer and 150 no-offer) is still limited.
  • Many qualified applicants face hurdles around credential recognition or gathering the right documents.
That’s why having support from a knowledgeable immigration consultant is essential. Whether you’re seeking help from the Best immigration consultant in London Ontario or an Immigration Consultant in Toronto, Sayal Immigration can walk you through every step.

7. What Sayal Immigration Does for You

We take pride in simplifying the process:
  • For employers, we help you draft compliant job offers and find the right candidates.
  • For refugees, we help you prepare your resume, gather documents, and submit your application.
We’ve helped people from all walks of life—and from many different regions—settle and succeed through the EMPP. That includes employers and job seekers in areas like Mississauga, Brampton, Kitchener, and Scarborough.

8. Looking Ahead

Canada’s government has indicated they’re watching the EMPP closely and may consider making it a permanent feature of the immigration system. For now, though, the clock is ticking. Applications are open, and the program will close at the end of 2025 unless extended again. Don’t wait. If you’re a business facing hiring challenges, or a refugee with skills and determination, now is the time.

✅ Quick Summary

Benefit Details
Faster residency 6-month processing, waived fees
Job sectors involved Health, trades, food services
Employer benefits Access to skilled, motivated workforce
Sayal Immigration support Full guidance for both employers and refugees

💡 Take the Next Step

Sayal Immigration is ready to help. Whether you’re an employer trying to find talent or a refugee looking to restart your life in Canada, we’re here for you. We’re your trusted Immigration Consultant in Scarborough and across Canada. Reach out now and let’s build something better—together.