Privacy Policy

Your Privacy and the Internet

The nature of the Internet is such that Web servers automatically collect certain information about a visit to a website, including the visitor's Internet Protocol (IP) address. IP addresses are unique numbers assigned by Internet Service Providers (ISP) to all devices used to access the Internet. Web servers automatically log the IP addresses of visitors to their sites. The IP address, on its own, does not identify an individual. However, in certain circumstances, such as with the co-operation of an ISP for example, it could be used to identify an individual using the site. For this reason, the Government of Canada considers the IP address to be personal information, particularly when combined with other data collected during a visit.

Collection of Personal Information

When you visit IRCC's website, we may collect personal information for administrative and non-administrative purposes. Administrative purposes include decisions that directly affect you, such as processing an application for a visa or citizenship. Non-administrative purposes include activities such as research, statistical analysis, and audit.

Personal information we collect may include:

• Name and contact information (email, phone number, address)
• Date of birth and country of origin
• Passport and travel document details
• Biometric information (fingerprints and photos)
• Financial information for fee payments
• IP addresses and device information

Use and Disclosure of Information

Your personal information is used primarily to process your applications and provide you with requested services. In some cases, we may share your information with other government institutions or international partners, as authorized by the *Privacy Act* and other relevant legislation. This may include:

• The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for security and border control
• The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for background checks
• International partners for the verification of travel documents and visa history

Cookies and Web Analytics

We use digital markers, commonly known as "cookies," to track your visit to our website and improve your experience. Cookies are small files that are stored on your computer's hard drive. They help us remember your preferences and settings.

We use web analytics tools to analyze traffic patterns and website usage. This information is used to help us improve the website and better serve our visitors. All information collected for web analytics is anonymized and cannot be used to identify you directly.

Protecting Your Information

IRCC takes the security of your personal information very seriously. We use a variety of technical, administrative, and physical measures to protect your information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. This includes encryption, firewalls, and secure data centers.

We also require all employees who handle personal information to undergo regular training on privacy and security practices.

Your Rights

Under the *Privacy Act*, you have the right to:

• Access your personal information held by IRCC
• Request a correction to your personal information if you believe it is inaccurate or incomplete
• File a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada if you are not satisfied with how we handle your information

Data Retention

Personal information used for an administrative purpose is retained for at least two years after the last administrative action, in accordance with the *Privacy Act*. The specific retention periods for different types of information are described in our Personal Information Banks (PIBs).

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy notice or our privacy practices, please contact the IRCC Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) Office: