My personal timeline is in my signature -- September 2021 intake.Not too sure if they will start processing without biometric.
Can somebody else answer this?
They will. But you won't receive the OPR until you do so. I attended a virtual pre departure orientation hosted by the migration manager in the Canadian embassy. He presented and said that processing starts as soon as you submitted your application and paid the fees. However -- complete applications are prioritized. Here's a timeline of my friend who had a HUGE delay in giving his biometrics due to the VAC closure.
Non SDS (Indonesian applying in Indonesia)
College is in DLI list and COVID readiness plan
September 2020 intake
Application submitted: June 27, 2020
BIL: June 28, 2020
Medical request: July 22, 2020
Biometrics done: December 24, 2020 (Huge delay due to VAC closure)
BVL: December 29, 2020
OPR: December 29, 2020
PoE letter: January 8, 2021
It took about a week after he submitted his passport to receiving it back.
Note: not able to share timelines for medical passed, eligibility start etc because he forgot and didn't check it everyday.