Travelling to India from Canada requires an Indian visa for Canadian citizens. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or medical purposes, obtaining the proper visa is essential to ensure smooth entry into the country. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the Indian visa for Canadian citizens, covering essential information and steps to help you prepare for your trip.
Types of Indian Visas for Canadian Citizens
When applying for an Indian visa, Canadian citizens must first determine the type of visa they need. India offers several visa categories based on the purpose of travel. Below are the most common visa types for Canadian passport holders:
- Tourist Visa: This visa is for those visiting India for sightseeing, vacations, or recreational purposes. Canadian citizens can usually apply for a tourist visa for up to 6 months.
- Business Visa: Canadian citizens traveling to India for business purposes, including attending meetings, conferences, or business-related activities, must apply for a business visa. This type of visa is typically valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the nature of the business.
- Medical Visa: For those coming to India for medical treatment, the medical visa is necessary. This visa allows Canadian citizens to stay in India for treatment at recognized hospitals.
- e-Visa: One of the most convenient options for Canadian citizens is the Indian e-Visa. This visa can be applied for online and is suitable for tourism, business, or medical purposes. It is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival and allows for double entry into India.
Requirements for Canadian Citizens to Apply for an Indian Visa

Regardless of the type of visa you are applying for, there are general requirements that all Canadian citizens must fulfill when applying for an Indian visa. These include:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in India. It should also contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
- Completed Application Form: For most visa types, Canadian citizens must complete an online application form. The form requires basic details, including personal information, travel plans, and purpose of visit.
- Photographs: A recent passport-sized photograph that meets the specifications provided by the Indian consulate is necessary. This is typically a color photo with a white background.
- Proof of Travel: You may need to provide a copy of your flight itinerary, confirming your travel dates and return details.
- Visa Fee: The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa you apply for. For an e-Visa, the fee is typically paid online during the application process.
- Supporting Documents: Depending on the visa type, additional documents may be required. For instance, if applying for a business visa, you’ll need a letter from your employer or a business invitation letter from the Indian company.
Indian Visa Application Process for Canadian Citizens
The process of applying for an INDIAN VISA AIRPORTS FOR ENTRY is relatively straightforward, though the steps may vary depending on the visa type. Below is a general outline of the visa application process:
- Online Application: The first step is to complete the visa application form online. You will need to provide details such as your passport information, travel plans, and the purpose of your visit to India.
- Submit Documents: Once the form is completed, you must submit the required documents. For a regular visa, you may need to send your documents to the nearest Indian visa application center. For an e-Visa, documents are generally uploaded during the online application process.
- Pay Visa Fee: The visa fee can be paid online during the application process. If you’re applying through an Indian embassy or consulate, the fee is typically paid in person or via bank transfer.
- Visa Processing: Once your documents and payment are received, your application will be processed. The processing time for a tourist visa can vary, but it usually takes around 7-10 business days. The e-Visa process is typically quicker, with processing times of 3-4 business days.
- Receive Your Visa: After approval, you will receive your visa either electronically (in the case of an e-Visa) or as a physical visa stamp in your passport.
Indian e-Visa for Canadian Citizens
One of the most popular and convenient visa options for Canadian citizens is the Indian e-Visa. It is ideal for travelers planning to visit India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. Here’s everything you need to know about the Indian e-Visa:
- Eligibility: Canadian citizens are eligible for the e-Visa if they meet certain criteria, such as traveling for short-term purposes (tourism, business, medical visits) and entering through one of the designated e-Visa airports in India.
- Application Process: The application for an Indian e-Visa can be completed entirely online. You will need to provide basic personal information, passport details, and a recent photograph. In addition, you must upload a scanned copy of your passport’s biographical page.
- Processing Time: The e-Visa processing time is usually between 3 to 4 business days, and applicants will receive an approved e-Visa via email. Once you have the e-Visa, you must print a copy to carry with you when you travel.
- Validity: The Indian e-Visa for Canadian citizens is typically valid for 60 days and permits double entry into the country. For longer stays or other types of visits, such as employment or studies, you would need to apply for a different type of visa.
Important Tips for Canadian Citizens Traveling to India
- Apply in Advance: While the Indian visa process can be quick, it’s always advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Check Your Visa’s Validity: Ensure that your visa remains valid throughout the duration of your stay in India. If your visa expires before your return date, you could face difficulties with immigration authorities.
- Visa on Arrival: Some countries have an agreement with India that allows citizens to obtain a visa upon arrival. However, Canadian citizens are not eligible for this service and must apply for a visa before traveling.
- Travel Insurance: It’s highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance for your trip to India, especially if you are traveling for medical treatment or business. This will ensure that you are covered in case of emergencies.
Conclusion
For Canadian citizens, obtaining an Indian visa is a crucial step before embarking on a trip to India. Whether applying for a tourist visa, business visa, or medical visa, it’s essential to understand the different types of visas available and the necessary requirements. The e-Visa process is a particularly convenient option for those visiting for short-term stays. By following the outlined process, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to India.