India-Canada Visa Queries: Will Canada suspend visa for Indians? All your questions answered here

Students should expect visa delays and possible disruption in their spring academic session scheduled to start in January.

India-Canada Visa Queries: The diplomatic row between India and Canada that erupted after Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau accused New Delhi of being involved in the killing of a Khalistan separatist has Indians with travel plans to the country in a limbo.

The MEA in a presser said India temporarily suspending issuance of visas to Canadian citizens in view of “security threats” faced by its high commission and consulates in that country, adding that all categories of visas have been suspended, including Canadian visa applicants in third countries.

The move is seen impacting Indians with family members in Canada, students and businessmen.

Here's what we know

Will Canadians be able to travel to India now?

No, they won’t be able to travel to India. The suspension, however, does not impact those who already have visa stamped.

What kind of visas will be impacted?
All categories, this includes tourist, work. E-visa is also suspended.

What about visa services to Canadians from a third country?
Visa for those who live another country besides Canada has also been suspended by India.

Also read | Travel industry caught in the crossfire of India-Canada row, worry over long-term impact

Will Indians be able to travel to Canada?
Yes. Canada hasn’t imposed any curbs on people travelling to the country so far. The MEA has, however, urged citizens to “exercise utmost caution.”

What about OCI-card holders?
People in Canada with Overseas Citizenship of India card need not worry. The MEA on Thursday clarified that the suspension will not impact them and they were free to travel to India.

What happens to those with permanent residency in Canada?
For those who hold permanent residency in Canada, there are no changes to visa policies yet. A permanent resident is someone who has been given the status by immigrating to Canada, but is not a Canadian citizen.

All permanent residents could still travel to India and back.

What about students planning to study in Canada?
Expect visa delays and possible disruption in their spring academic session scheduled to start in January. Many students have been advised to plan their academic session for next fall/autumn, which is August 2024.

How long will this situation last?
Depends on the situation and how it progresses.