The Canada Border Services Agency says it's looking to hire a global technology firm to help develop a biometric strategy in response to evolving cross-border issues, including COVID-19.
The CBSA is inviting 15 firms to submit proposals.
Biometric information -- such as an iris scan or a fingerprint record -- is considered useful in managing the passage of people across borders.
Canada's privacy commissioners have said principles governing personal information must guide the introduction of digital or paper proof-of-vaccination certificates.
The U.S.-Canadian border crossings have been closed to non-essential traffic since March of last year, but Ontario will start lifting restrictions on outdoor activities and businesses on Friday.
Provincial officials say health indicators have improved enough to begin re-opening the economy a few days ahead of next week's scheduled start date.
Limited outdoor dining can resume, in addition to fitness classes and religious services that are held outside. More retail businesses can open for in-person sales with capacity restrictions.
