Do Canadian Citizens Need an Indian Visa to Travel or Stay in India?

Traveling to India as a Canadian citizen requires a visa, unless certain conditions apply.

General Requirements for Canada to India Visa

Visitors from Canada are required to obtain a visa before traveling to India, with the exception of those holding an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card. Typically, a visa is needed for both business and tourism visits. The maximum stay allowed in India is 180 days within any 1 calendar year.

Types of Visas for Canadian Citizens

Based on the purpose of your visit, there are two primary types of visas available for Canadian citizens:

Tourist Visa: Ideal for leisure travel and sightseeing in India. Business Visa: Suitable for visiting India for commercial and business purposes.

Obtaining an Indian Visa

The easiest and fastest way to obtain a visa is through the Indian eVisa system. Travelers can submit their application and supporting documents online, making the process more convenient. For more detailed information, visit the official Indian embassy or consulate in Canada, or directly on the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs website.

Visa for OCI Holders

Canadian citizens who hold an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card are exempt from obtaining a visa for entry to India. This allows them to enter the country without any further formalities. However, it's important to note that OCI cardholders are subject to the same 180-day stay limit as other visa holders.

Reciprocity and Visas for Indians

India follows a reciprocal visa policy, meaning that if citizens of one country require a visa to enter India, citizens of India will also need a visa to enter that country. This policy applies even if there are visa relaxations such as visa on arrival, which are also reciprocal.

Visa Processing Time

The standard processing time for a Canadian visa to enter India is approximately 30 days. However, the processing time can vary, and it's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel plans.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official Indian embassy or consulate website in Canada and the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs website.

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